Here are a few upcoming local events:
Chandler’s Ford community produce and craft indoor market – Saturday 5th October on Brownhill Road (next to Co-op), Fryern Arcade.
Chandler’s Ford Likely Lads Club [Read more…] about Local Events
Local Events
Chandler's Ford Community
Here we hope you get to discover Chandler's Ford, through local stories, Chandler's Ford history, events, and reflections and debates of topical issues. How has Chandler's Ford shown community spirit? How are we connected? This tag invites you to explore and develop our community together.
The Fire Service Visits!
Last year, a group of U3A folk was able to visit the HQ of the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service in Eastleigh. It was a fascinating visit as we were given a warm welcome, lots of information and practical advice.
One of the pieces of advice was a recommendation that we had a free Home Fire Safety Check visit to:
• identify any potential fire risks and discuss with the occupier how they can prevent or reduce the risk;
• ensure occupants have working smoke alarms, install where necessary and advise on maintenance and testing;
• ensure occupants have carbon monoxide detectors where needed, install if necessary and discuss the dangers;
• help put together a household escape plan and identify any mobility issues that may impede an evacuation;
• issue fire-retardant bedding, furniture throws and nightwear where needed;
• give basic advice on topics such as falls prevention and smoking.
I made the appointment and awaited my visit. I was told that if an emergency call coincided with my appointment, I’d need to be understanding – of course! But no emergency came and on time, two lovely fire officers (pictured) rolled up in the appliance. I don’t know what the rest of my street thought when they saw the appliance parked up! [Read more…] about The Fire Service Visits!
Election Hustings – Meet the Candidates for Chandler’s Ford and Eastleigh – Sunday June 23rd
As we are all aware, the parliamentary constituency of Chandler’s Ford and Eastleigh is newly re-organised and most electors have had little opportunity to see their candidates in person.
In Chandler’s Ford, all potential electors are invited to a special event to see and hear from the parliamentary candidates for Chandler’s Ford and Eastleigh.
Date and Time: Sunday, June 23rd, 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:30 PM)
Location: Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church, Winchester Road, SO53 2GJ
Organised by Churches Together in Chandler’s Ford and Chaired by Bishop Geoff Annas, Acting Bishop of Southampton, the meeting is open to all electors in Chandler’s Ford and Eastleigh, of all faiths or none.
Please come and support this and hear from the candidates to help inform your vote, for an evening of discussion and engagement.
Remember to arrive early to secure your seat.
Submit Your Questions
Beyond Beliefs by Sohail Husain: The Incredible True Story of a German Refugee, an Indian Migrant and the Families Left Behind
After 6 years’ research, Chandler’s Ford resident Sohail Husain has published this remarkable book – Beyond Beliefs.
Beyond Beliefs is an incredible true story of a German refugee, an Indian migrant and the families left behind.
Now you can Meet the Author Sohail Husain, on Monday 24th June, at Dovetail Cafe at Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church, from 2pm to 4pm.
This epic memoir recounts the compelling and extraordinary tale of Sohail’s parents and grandparents, whose lives were engulfed by four momentous events of the 20th century: the First World War, the Great Depression, the Partition of India and the Holocaust.
His parents were separated by birthplace, race, faith, language and age, but their common experience of unimaginable loss and upheaval ultimately brought them together in London.
Their love story was complicated and unconventional, but enduring. It is a testament to human spirit overcoming tragedy and adversity. [Read more…] about Beyond Beliefs by Sohail Husain: The Incredible True Story of a German Refugee, an Indian Migrant and the Families Left Behind
The Role of Chandler’s Ford in the Run-up to D-Day
Writer: Christine Clark
Photos: All crochets by Chandler’s Ford u3a.
On 6 June 1944, the long-awaited Allied landing in northern France began. Facing Hitler’s Atlantic Wall coastal fortifications, soldiers of the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and other Allied nations landed on beaches in Normandy, beginning a campaign which lasted until 24 July 1944.
Hitler and his generals had been expecting an invasion that year. However, the successful Operation Bodyguard, a military deception strategy, misled the Axis powers into believing that the invasion would be later in the year and further north-east, nearer to Calais. Instead, the Allied war planners had selected a 50-mile stretch of coastline in Normandy on five beaches codenamed Utah, Omega, Gold, Juno and Sword.
A key part of the strategy of Operation Bodyguard was to hide the amount of troop buildup in southern England. Approximately 160,000 Allied soldiers had to be mustered, fed, watered and moved to their embarkation points without it being obvious to the Axis powers’ intelligence.
These muster points, or marshalling areas, spread right across the south coast of England. In our area, Marshalling Area C was central south Hampshire and included Southampton, Botley, Winchester, Chandler’s Ford, Hursley, Ampfield and Romsey. The closest embarkation point was Southampton docks, although there were others in the New Forest and Gosport. [Read more…] about The Role of Chandler’s Ford in the Run-up to D-Day
Our Roman Road
Recently I was at the public consultation for review of the proposed new development at Velmore Farm. While looking at the maps, I noticed that the site of a Roman road runs through the new development. So, when I was sending in my views on the new development (please ensure no flooding / make provision for GPs and dentists / how can the roads cope with the extra traffic?), I also asked if this historic road could somehow be conserved. There may not be much to be seen now, but I felt it was important it was at least signposted and not built upon.
So what was this road? Where did it go? [Read more…] about Our Roman Road
Star of Wonder
We read in Matthew’s Gospel that the magi observed the star at the nativity ‘at its rising’. Knowing this to be a sign fulfilling a prophecy of a Messiah’s birth, they followed it to Bethlehem. But what was this star? The last 2000 years has given us a feast of knowledge based on solid research, so that we are now in a position to unwrap the story of this wonderful and significant sign.
The most likely interpretation seems to be that this was a supernova [Read more…] about Star of Wonder
Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church – an Out of the Ordinary Christmas
Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church has many events on – craft, puppet show, Christmas concerts and Christmas services, and many more.
From Monday to Saturday morning, the Dovetail Centre Café is open to all. It’s where you enjoy a nice cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee and breakfast, and you’ll find many lovely, friendly faces there. This is a place of friendship, kindness, and warmth. No one should feel lonely in the community.
[Read more…] about Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church – an Out of the Ordinary Christmas
The Posada Journey
“Mary and Joseph played with my Barbie dolls. But they didn’t have Santa hats to wear.” Alys, aged six, and her brother Jamie, three, were just two of the children who took part in the local Posada journey here in Chandler’s Ford. This annual event is become increasingly common in the weeks of Advent, as we prepare for Christmas.
The journey involves the nativity figures of Mary and Joseph, who will later adorn the crib in church during the Christmas season. The idea is that they make their way around the area, staying in people’s homes, usually for one night, before they move – or are moved – on. Families and individuals sign up for a roster so that the holy couple is passed from home to home each day. [Read more…] about The Posada Journey
70 Years of Selwood Christmas Tree in Chandler’s Ford
When is Christmas coming? In Chandler’s Ford, it’s when the Selwood Christmas tree is up.
The Selwood Christmas tree has been lighting up Chandler’s Ford since 1953. It’s been 70 years. Thank you Selwood for doing this every year, and keeping this wonderful tradition alive for the joy of the local community. [Read more…] about 70 Years of Selwood Christmas Tree in Chandler’s Ford
Lest We Forget
Lest we forget.
You may have seen these beautiful crochet and knitted postbox toppers for Remembrance commemorations. They are on Ashdown Road and Bournemouth Road in Chandler’s Ford.
Thank you for those who made these. People have been talking about them and admiring them.
Hampshire Open Studios 2023
Hampshire Open Studios have started, running from 19th – 28th August this year. It is an annual art trail where the visiting public can meet artists in their homes, studios and galleries free of charge. There are over 250 venues open, in the ten days leading up to bank holiday Monday August. You can get the opportunity to meet the makers direct and learn more about the work.
There are a wide variety of venues to see along with every type of art and craft on offer in the region, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, furniture, jewellery and many more.
In Chandler’s Ford, there are several open studios, incuding members from CHANDLERS FORD ART GROUP (CFAG) holding an event in the larger meeting room by the Dovetail Cafe, at the Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church.
From Saturday 19 Aug – Monday 28 Aug – 10am-4pm Daily
Twin Oaks Water Garden – Open one more day on Sunday 20 August
Twin Oaks Water Garden (as seen on BBC Gardeners World) is open on Saturday and Sunday 19/20 August for the last time this year.
This is part of the National Garden Scheme. Why not go and enjoy Syd and Sue Hutchinson’s garden and relax with a cup of tea and Sue’s home-baked cake? They also have the end of season plant sale where almost every plant is half price. And all money goes to charity.
Venue – 13 Oakwood Road, Chandler’s Ford, SO53 1LW. Open from 1pm to 5pm.
Images by Jill Mayes
[Read more…] about Twin Oaks Water Garden – Open one more day on Sunday 20 August
A Parish Newsletter from Days Gone By
I recently had the opportunity to see the original of the St Boniface Monthly Parish Paper of March 1943. I was only allowed to handle it wearing gloves and then only briefly. Fortunately, its owner was kind enough to send me a scan of it, which I have read avidly, delighting in a piece of our parish history.
I imagine this was the forerunner of the parish magazine. It is just 4 pages, sized something near A5 (although in old imperial sizing, of course) and is priced 1d. There is a lot in it of interest to present-day readers.
It starts with an inspirational motto from Psalm 127 and then lists the names of the Vicar (Rev. Harold Fryer), churchwardens, PCC secretary and treasurer. It then outlines the Sunday services for the month. There are three services each Sunday with 8am Holy Communion and Evensong every Sunday, and Sung Eucharist and Mattins alternate Sundays.
The letter from the Vicar is next, where he encourages people to prepare for Lent. He also outlines his plans to change the schedule of Sunday services. [Read more…] about A Parish Newsletter from Days Gone By
Getting Ready for the Coronation of King Charles III?
The Coronation of King Charles III is fast approaching. Are you getting ready yet? Any street parties, tea parties… in Chandler’s Ford?
We have found these pretty knitted dolls on Bournemouth Road.
[Read more…] about Getting Ready for the Coronation of King Charles III?
Changes at Fryern Hill
There has been quite a lot of changes at Fryern Hill. Banks have disappeared, shops are closing, businesses are moving elsewhere……Here are just a few examples.
Card Gallery
The former Barclays Bank
Hiltingbury Polish Dependants’ Hostel in Chandler’s Ford
My name is Pawel Basisty and I’m member of Friends of Polish Veterans Association in Southampton. Our organisation is trying to make sure that our army veterans and important history dates are not forgotten but celebrated. Often we take part in the same events as British Legion.
This time we will celebrate the unveiling of the commemorative plaque for 75th anniversary of the establishment of the Hiltingbury Polish Dependants’ Hostel in Chandler’s Ford.
[Read more…] about Hiltingbury Polish Dependants’ Hostel in Chandler’s Ford
Chandler’s Ford – Community Food Larder is Open to All
Did you know there is a Community Food Larder in Chandler’s Ford? It is located by the front door to the Hall of the Methodist Church facing Winchester Road. There are basic food and toiletries for anyone who just need a bit of help.
The cupboard is unlocked, and is open 24/7. If you need anything, or if you know of anyone who may need some help, please come to the larder and help yourself.
This morning I saw several church members fill up the larder, so I took a few photographs to show you what’s inside.
[Read more…] about Chandler’s Ford – Community Food Larder is Open to All
Tributes to Queen Elizabeth II
There are many ways to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. In Chandler’s Ford, members of the public have laid flowers by a cross outside the St. Boniface Church on Hursley Road.
Community Food Larder at Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church from 23 July
From the 23rd of July, Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church will be hosting a Food Larder at the front of the building.
This will provide basic food and toiletries in an emergency to anyone who needs them, 24/7.
[Read more…] about Community Food Larder at Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church from 23 July