50 B4 50-The Fat Duck

The Fat Duck

This restaurant has been an ambition for many, many years and at last the day has come thanks to my wife's generous Birthday present.

As we got ready we thought it wise to check the Dress Code -which read; 'Come along however you feel comfortable'. I resisted wearing shorts and tee shirt. I say 'resisted', what I actually mean is my wife told me; 'you can do that over your dead body!'.

Looking lovely, we arrived in Bray, which now has 2 pubs owned by Heston Blumenthal, his 'Experimental Kitchen', a building for staff dining and down a small lane about 400 yards long, is Alain Roux's Waterside Inn, which is the best restaurant we have been fortunate enough to have dined in.

The Fat Duck itself is in an unpretentious converted cottage and simply decorated inside.

The greeting was warm, informal and friendly and when we arrived at the table the first thing we noticed was nothing. Usually you would expect expensive charger plates, fine crystal, gleaming cutlery and table decorations. All we had was a plain white linen table cloth with a small bowl of flowers, that was it.

The Fat Duck has one menu and everyone dining has the same - a tasting menu with 14 courses! 

When booking, you are told to 'Allow 4 1/2 hours for this menu'. I had suggested to my wife we could bring a book or iPod, but one look told me that was a bad idea, this was followed by a clear instruction; 'You can talk to me'. Not being an expert at chatting unnecessarily, I reluctantly agreed to give it a go.

The menu was described as "A sequence of dishes designed not only to capture a delicious and exciting range of flavours, textures and aromas, but also to bring multi-sensory appeal, some culinary history and a sense of theatre to the dining experience."

As we dined, none of that statement could be argued with. It would be too much to go blow by blow through each course, but the main highlights were the 'Beetroot & Horseradish' canapé which exploded with flavours and surprising textures in the mouth and was amazing on every level. The famous Snail Porridge was as tasty as weird, I had the best scallop I have ever tasted, The 'Mad Hatters Tea Party' was spectacular to look at and the theatrical staging from the dissolvable watch to the mad toast sandwiches pure theatre.

If I hadn't tasted it, I wouldn't have believed it, - but one course, the 'Hot & Iced Tea' could not be explained, - as you drunk, the liquid in your mouth was hot on one side, and on the other cold! - no idea how they did this one. I could go on through the menu, as there is so much, that is so good.

There was only one course my wife did not like as she is not keen on 'smoky' flavours, I, on the other hand love them, so with a stroke of luck I got two portions of the Jelly of Quail. Sadly, she liked all of the sweet courses so I was rationed to my own portions.

One extra nice touch was when one of our waitresses spotted my wife was left handed (yes, I know - weird), from then on she laid her cutlery the other way round for each course.

It was now clear why the table setting was so 'plain', it was to ensure that everything was totally focussed on each creation bought to the table.

As the fourteenth course arrived I had done OK on the 'talking thing', hadn't upset or offended anyone, nor had any of my wife's 'looks' - so things had turned out pretty well. As I sat, very contented and full, I was now hoping I could now have a rest from 'talking' for a few weeks.

We had heard the The Fat Duck was more about the 'theatre' than the food. Our experience differs - we were definitely blown away by the 'theatre', but it is more than that, the food was delicious, flavours as clever as they were unusual, and everything was a feast for the eyes, senses and mind.

This is not food you can eat everyday, but as a once in a lifetime experience it was one of our best.

Tasting Menu - 14 Courses

NITRO POACHED APERITIFS

Vodka and Lime Sour, Gin and Tonic, Tequila and Grapefruit

RED CABBAGE GAZPACHO

Pommery Grain Mustard Ice Cream

JELLY OF QUAIL, CRAYFISH CREAM

Chicken Liver Parfait, Oak Moss and Truffle Toast

click image to enlarge

SNAIL PORRIDGE

Iberico Bellota Ham, Shaved Fennel

ROAST FOIE GRAS

Barberry, Confit Kombu and Crab Biscuit

MAD HATTER'S TEA PARTY (c.1892)

Mock Turtle Soup, Pocket Watch and Toast Sandwich

"SOUND OF THE SEA"

SALMON POACHED IN A LIQUORICE GEL

Artichoke, Vanilla Mayonnaise and Golden Trout Roe

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UMBLE PIE

HOT AND ICED TEA

EGGS IN VERJUS (c.1726), VERJUS IN EGG (c.2013)

BOTRYTIS CINEREA

WHISK(E)Y WINE GUMS

"LIKE A KID IN A SWEET SHOP"

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Footnote: The Fat Duck Restaurant is moving to the Crown Towers Hotel in Melbourne, Australia for 6 months from January 2015. We chatted to our sommelier, and she excitedly told us that this meant everyone from the Fat Duck was going; that was the kitchen brigade of 20+, all of the front of house team of around 16 people, plus every pot, pan and plate from the kitchen!

Whilst they are all away, The Fat Duck in Bray is being fully refurbished. No doubt Heston will be launching something new and wonderful when he reopens. So, just as we took one of our biggest wishes off the list, it looks like a new one will be going on later next year!

In the meantime, back to reality and good home cooked food. All food is great, and often the company is more important than what is on the plate. (With a bit of luck that last comment will score me lots of brownie points to cash in for the stupid things I am bound to do over Christmas!)

The Fat Duck

High Street, Bray, Berkshire SL6 2AQ

www.thefatduck.co.uk

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50 B4 50-DINING CHALLENGE

Michelin Stars Collected So Far: 46

50 B4 50 Challenged explained: click here

3 Michelin Star
London: Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester
Berkshire-Bray: The Fat Duck
Berkshire-Bray: The Waterside Inn
Bruges, Belgium: De Karmeliet

2 Michelin Star

London: La Gavroche, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Hibiscus, Pied a Terre, Marcus.
Berkshire: Michael Wignall at The Latymer (Penny Hill Park Hotel) (*Twice)
Buckinghamshire: Hand & Flowers (*3 Times!)
France-Paris: Georges V Hotel

1 Michelin Star
London: Benares, L’Autre Pied, Quilon, Social Eating House (*Twice), Veeraswamy, The Savoy Grill, L’Escargot
Hampshire: Terrace Restaurant (Montague Arms), Vetiver (Chewton Glen Hotel), JSW.
Sussex: Ockenden Manor

*To read the review on any of the above restaurants, put 'restaurant name' in this blog's search box.

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No Michelin Stars, but restaurants visited since July 2013 that are worth a mention:

Milford on Sea | Verveine Fishmarket Restaurant- www.verveine.co.uk

London | Franco's - www.francoslondon.com
Milford on Sea | La Perle - www.laperlemilford.co.uk
Mudeford | The Jetty - www.thejetty.co.uk
Yarmouth, IoW | The George - www.thegeorge.co.uk
London | Dishoom - www.dishoom.co.uk

London | J Sheeky Oyster Bar - www.jsheekeyoysterbar.co.uk

Lymington | The Elderflower - www.elderflowerrestaurant.co.uk
London | The Ivy - www.the-ivy.co.uk
Lymington | The Haven - www.havenrestaurant.co.uk

Devon | River Cottage HQ - www.rivercottage.net/hq 
Guildford | Brittens - www.brittensrestaurant.com

Ever Heard of Milford Mummers?

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Until a few days ago I had never heard of 'Mummers', and then was even more surprised to discover that there is a 'Milford Mummers' group.

If like me you don't know what ''Mumming' is, I have discovered from Caroline Ellis, that it is an ancient British street theatre tradition. 

Caroline explained; "In medieval times, most villages throughout Britain and Ireland would have had a Mummer's team, producing short plays throughout the year.

These plays may have originally been mimed (hence 'mum' - remaining silent) and were the for-runner of the Pantomime. Most were later performed in rhyming couplets. The teams (or "sides" as they are known in some places) toured round the village ale houses and large private homes - in much the same way that carol singers have done in more recent times.

All the plays have a theme of death and re-birth and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. (Hurrah !) There is generally a sword fight, with a 'baddie and a goodie' and much hissing, booing and cheering on both sides. A travelling doctor then arrives on the scene to revive the character who didn't survive the duel."

I was particularly please to hear that the scripts are not politically correct in any way at all.

Caroline also told us; "In the 1640s, the Puritans outlawed Mumming and many other Christmas traditions (including crib shaped mince pies!). Teams have re-formed and disbanded throughout the centuries ever since. We are lucky to have a writer on our Milford on Sea team. She provides tailor made scripts based on snippets from old writings, topped up with local and topical references."

A Mummers play is usually less than 10 minutes in length and generally ends with a seasonal song.

The Milford Mummers will be at the Christmas Folk Club at the Milford on Sea Community Centre in Sea Road on Thursday 11th December, along with the Sounds Like Fun Choir from Fordingbridge, Half of Murphy's and local floor singers.

There will also be Mumming around the village pubs on the evening of Friday 19th December. The Milford Mummers generally collect for a charity after they have done the play. Last year, they shook buckets for Shelterbox.

So there you have it, we all know what 'Mumming' is now - and you have plenty of chances to see and join in the fun over the next couple of weeks.

50 B4 50-The Latymer

This has been the most surreal week, with belated (and ridiculously generous) Birthday presents all coming together, - A Cookery Course in London, Dinner at The Latymer, Lily Allen in Concert and a much anticipated trip to the The Fat Duck.

Discovering food may be a weird hobby, but it's an enjoyable one. Not sure why I am so lucky, but I am certainly very grateful.

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Michael Wignall at The Latymer

Our good friends Dave & Jay, together with their fun wives Sam and Mel, surprised us with an invitation to experience Michael Wignall's two Michelin Starred cooking at The Latymer restaurant within the Pennyhill Park Hotel.

When we booked our taxi, we had no idea that Evel Knievel was now a cab driver! - it was a relief when he pulled into the long drive to this impressive country house hotel set with 123 acres of rolling Surrey parkland. Walking inside it takes you into another world of how the other half lives. Personally, I like being in the bottom half, as I don't think dining this way every day would be much fun, but as a one-off experience it is enjoyable to do.

Another very nice surprise came my way when Dave told us all we were having the 10 course taster menu.

The meal started with canapés, bread and the first tuna starter, all of which were extraordinary, and I thought I might possibly be heading towards the best meal I had ever had. However, we then had some courses which the others really liked, but they were simply not my favourite flavours (broccoli, butternut squash - vegetables of the devil!).

The fish and meat courses were all tasty, and it was clear we were eating the finest ingredients. Our accompanying Sancerre was also flowing copiously.

The sweets were a mixture, they were certainly clever and pretty, but not ‘sweet enough’ for me, although again others in our group really liked them. It is a shame to be critical when the hard work that had gone into every plate was so obvious, but personal taste buds rule!

The presentation of all dishes were superbly artistic and the service very good. 

As we dined, chatting and laughing a lot, there were groups of guys around the hotel that looked like they had been in a fight, (and they had) - it was the England Rugby team who had earlier that day beaten Australia 26-17 in a gruelling match at Twickenham.

As we left, the England Rugby team coach blocked our way, and our taxi driver was anxious to get his foot hard down on the accelerator pedal - again! After waiting several minutes the guys decided we should ask the driver if he could move. As we debated who should go, Dave's wife Sam simply got out, charmed the driver and we were on our way.

Often it takes a woman to get things done!  

Tasting Menu - 10 Course

Tuna

Seared Yellowfin tuna and tartare, kohlrabi, compressed watermelon, dehydrated yoghurt, avocado rocks, maitake

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Broccoli

Charred sprouting broccoli, parsley root, pumpkin granola, sweet potato, trompettes, brillat savarin

Duck

Tea smoked Goosnargh duck, marinated liver, salt baked celeriac, alba truffle, celery

Halibut

Cornish halibut, roasted scallop, textures of cauliflower, Iberico lardo, scallop and charcoal emulsion

Cassoulet of Clams

Cassoulet of razor clams and cockles, cuttlefish gnocchi and wafer, poached quail egg

click image to enlarge

Beef

Belted Galloway fillet, salt and pepper veal sweetbread, juniper scented abalone, oyster root, soy and shitake

Savoury

Crispy choux pastry, warm mont d’or espuma, cumin and carrot ice cream with munster cheese

Chocolate and Sugar Snap

Steamed chocolate sponge, olive oil and white chocolate, sugar snap peas, freeze dried mandarin

Pumpkin

Textures of pumpkin and seeds, chocolate gel, crème fraiche

Salsify

Liquorice scented salsify, buckwheat puffed and creamed, liquorice meringue, polenta crumb

click image to enlarge

Petit Fours: Bitter Chocolate and Hazelnut, Salted Peanut Truffle, Bounty Cup, Salted Caramel Macaroon, Raisin Fudge, Dark Chocolate Fudge, Bubblegum Marshmallow, Apple Marshmallow, Sour Cola Marshmallow, Sesame and Poppy Seed Tuile, Blackcurrante Pate de Fruit, Pear and Allspice Pate de Fruit, Beetroot and Orange Pate de Fruit.

Michael Wignall at The Latymer | Pennyhill Park Hotel

London Road, Bagshot, Surrey, GU19 5EU

www.pennyhillpark.co.uk

Pupils Achieve Music Awards

Once again the pupils of Music Lessons in Milford on Sea have attained music exam passes for their Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music in the November exam period. 

Congratulations go to: Niall on his violin who has passed his grade 5 with merit and his theory grade 4 with merit. Andali got really nice comments on his prep test certificate. Freya passed her grade 1 piano exam with merit. George passed his grade 1 guitar, and Alex passed his grade 3 theory. 

Excellent work all of you!

If you would like to know more about music lessons in Milford on Sea please phone 07731852158 or email: jenanda@hotmail.com

Musical Muses

www.musicalmuses.tk

Love Milford Week is coming!

Milford on Sea is a fabulous place to live. So, what better than to spend a week celebrating what makes the village so special!

If you would like to take a preview of what is happening, please take a look at the new website: www.lovemilfordweek.org

Love Milford Week will take place from Monday 16th to Sunday 22nd February 2015 and then bi-annually between Food Week years.

To keep everyone entertained there will be lots of Free Events happening, plus some excellent shows - if you want to ensure that you get tickets it might be a good time to order them now! click here

This new community event is organised by the Food Week Team, has been timed to coincide with School Half Term, to be close to Valentine’s Day, and to boost trade for our village shops, artisan makers and home businesses.

We would love for people to take the time to shop and discover just what they can buy locally ...you may be very pleasantly surprised!

So, core to Love Milford Week is the 'SHOPPING CHALLENGE'. We are challenging everyone to only shop in the village during Love Milford Week. - No visits to large chain stores or supermarkets, no cheating, just spending time showing the shops you love them.

Many of our village shops will be running promotions to entice you throughout the week, there we also be FREE Prize Draw tickets every time you visit any shop - with a chance to win one of Ten £50 Vouchers to spend locally.

Our local artisan makers and home businesses will also be involved in events where you can see and buy their goods.

Please join in - it will be fun!

PS: We also now have a Love Milford Week Facebook page - No idea what I am doing, but if you can please Like It, Love It, or Lick It, - and also do whatever Facebookers do like sharing or caring in order to let all of your friends know! - www.facebook.com/lovemilfordweek

PPS: If you want to chat about general stuff around the village, we now a 'Chat Room' on Facebook - simply click here to join. If any one has any idea why I am making these rods for my own back, - answers on a postcard please!

Love Milford Week
www.lovemilfordweek.org

Village Xmas Present Ideas

We all have an excellent opportunity to give great Christmas presents to our loved ones, and at the same time support our local Milford on Sea village businesses.

We will be celebrating everything that is great about the village at Love Milford Week in February (www.lovemilfordweek.org), but in the meantime, why not buy all your Christmas gifts and goodies locally, and at the same time show our village shops that you love them! 

ART, ANTIQUES & GIFTS

See the delights new and old in Jabulani Gallery, The Old Smithy, Brocante Antiques Shop, Carringtons Antiques, The Village Antiques or Village Charity Shop.

COOKERY CLASSES

Vouchers for cookery courses from Verveine or The Granary Kitchen Cookery School (01590 673040)

DINING WITH FRIENDS

Have you got friends or family who would love to enjoy the Great Dining Bus? - Go on... buy them a ticket as a Xmas present: click here

PAMPER VOUCHERS
Everyone loves to be pampered, how about a voucher for a beauty treatment from The Retreat Beauty Salon, Tu Sei Bella, JW Health & Holistics, or Acacia Beauty Academy (01590 645547)

SHOWTIME NIGHT OUT

If you would love to give any of your friends or family a great night out - this is definitely worth a look for one of the special shows coming to the village: www.ticketsource.co.uk/lovemilford

XMAS CARDS

Hurst Castle Shop have pretty Xmas cards with local scenes, and  Holland's have some charming Xmas cards of village pubs and shops - all are painted by village artists.

WALL CALENDARS
How about the Milford Conservation Volunteers calendar with local wildlife photography: £5 in selected village shops - or Friends of Hurst Castle calendar from the Hurst Castle Shop.

FLOWERS

Perfect as a present, or for that special decoration, all hand-made bouquets by Nicola at New Seasons.

A NEW XMAS OUTFIT

Moss on the Green has plenty of outfits and accessories to choose from. (Plus some original art.)

TURKEY & TRIMMINGS

The Butchers Shop and Lisa's Larder are great for your Christmas meat, Holland's (who will also deliver) and the Co-op have everything you will need, Fish from Verveine and Fruit & Veg from Marjories - who needs the big supermarkets?!

CHUTNEYS

Spice n' Easy Chutneys are all made by Claire in the village, get your selection for Boxing Day in Holland's.

WINE

Expert advice, wine gift packs, case deal and home delivery from The Cave.

DINE IN THE VILLAGE at XMAS

Check out the Village Restaurant and Pub Xmas Events & Deals: click here

XMAS TREE

Braxton Gardens are selling locally grown Norway & Nordman Christmas Trees in many sizes.

XMAS CAKES & CHOCOLATES

Check out our village home bakers for your delicious cake treats for Xmas: contact Nicola at Yum Cakes (www.loveyum.com) or Mandy at Elmsleigh Cakes (www.elmsleighcakes.co.uk) - For your chocolates, Fiona's are hand-made yumminess: Fiona Ann Chocolates (www.fionaannchocolates.co.uk), fnally, Mark in the Village News newsagent has plenty of good values choclates which would make excellent stocking fillers.

PS: Looking for a different type of present, then MAKE SOMEONE A FRIEND - click here

PPS: You can even get your pooch ready for Xmas, or buy them a present, at Short, Bark & Sides or Doggy Fashions.

PPPS: If I have unintentional missed out any shops, please still pop into your favourites to see what that can offer to brighten your Christmas! (...and theirs!)

Story of the Village War Memorial

I got a bit confused the other day. (I know, ...not hard.)

click image to enlarge

I was looking at an old photo of Milford on Sea village centre, and in particular the building opposite The Red Lion, which I had always understood was the old bakers. 

On the wall is a large board, which I thought was the village’s original War Memorial, which had been moved to inside the War Memorial Hospital in Sea Road.

I am a bit embarrassed to say, but I had never ventured into the War Memorial Hospital to see for myself.

WW1 War Shine
in War Memorial Hospital
click image to enlarge

Well, I did a week or so ago, and was a bit surprised with what I found. Indeed, there was a War Memorial on the wall, but it was definitely not the one from the wall of the bakers in the old picture!

So, there was only one thing to do - ask Chris Hobby, a stalwart of the village, eminent member of the MOSHRS (Milford on Sea Historical Record Society) and from a family of solid Milford on Sea stock for many generations.

Village War Shrine dedicated in 1917.
The names in the small centre panel
are those that had died.
Picture and information supplied
by Bob Braid
click image to enlarge

Chris explains: "The old picture shows the War Shrine which was erected on the wall of Tom Miles' bakehouse, on what is now the site of the photographers premises in the mock Tudor designed buildings put up in the mid 1930's.

The shrine was dedicated in 1917 and included the names of the villagers who went away to the war together with those, like my grandfather, who failed to return.

The names were inscribed on marble tablets which were transferred to the War Memorial Hospital when the bakehouse was demolished. They became very weathered and were eventually removed. 

The bronze depiction of Christ's head was part of the original shrine and was found on top of a cupboard in the hospital several years ago. Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, together with the workmanship of Vernon Waters, the plaque which you can now see in the Hospital makes a new record of the details which were once on the original shrine. It also acts as a reminder that our Hospital is the Village War Memorial. The villagers at the time having decided that the building would act as a living memorial to those who gave their lives in the Great War."

Thanks Chris, I think that clears it up, and for once one we have got a definitive answer to one of our quests. (Mainly due to getting someone sensible and knowledgeable involved!)

All Saints' Church War Memorial
click image to enlarge

PS: It is worth mentioning the All Saints' Church also has a War Memorial dedicated to the fallen of Milford on Sea.

Helping the Local Young & Vulnerable

We have come across a very worthwhile and inspiring charity helping out youngster across the New Forest and our local area.

They are called 'New Forest Nightstop' and they provide the only free emergency overnight accommodation for young homeless people aged 16 to 24 in the New Forest.

The young people stay in the homes of trained and approved volunteers.

Most young people are nervous, going to a strangers home but each one of them realised it was better than they thought it would be and they had a great time!

The website contains the stories from some of the young people who have been faced with homelessness in the New Forest and their experience with Nightstop. One example is Cassie:

Cassie

"When I found myself homeless I felt worried about what was next and lonely because I didn't feel there was any help for me. I felt relieved when I found out about Nightstop as there is help out there for young homeless people."

The key to providing this valuable service is of course the kind volunteers that take the young vulnerable people into their homes. It is great to know that Nightstop have three current volunteers in Milford on Sea.

One of them, Del commented: "I was worried when I was first a host, as I am a single woman but I know that I will never be sent anyone unsuitable. One young man stayed for 4 nights and it was very easy just providing a bed, breakfast and an evening meal when required and I know there is always someone on the end of a phone if I need advice’ 

If you would like to become a volunteer, or if  you are homeless or know of someone who is, please contact Catriona at Nightstop today.

Community First New Forest

Catriona Duncan

Nightstop Support Worker

01425 478391 

nightstopsupport@cfnf.org.uk

www.newforestnightstop.org.uk

Timeless on the Move

The Timeless Fabrics Shop is moving from opposite The Smugglers Inn, to the centre of Milford on Sea High Street, where Milford Model & Hobbies used to be.

Owner, Claire Deegan will be opening her doors on Tuesday 2nd December, ready for the switching on of the Christmas Lights on the Village Green!

The shop has been refurbished, with new lights and flooring having been fitted, the shop front sign writing is finished and friends and family are currently decorating into the night. 

Claire will have some new stock, books and Gift Certificates, ready for Christmas shoppers.

Claire lives in Hordle and this is now her second shop after establishing her business on-line.

Prior, to this Claire was a computer programmer who was taught at a young age to sew, knit, crochet and lace, by her mother & aunts. After redundancy, she returned to college to formalise her sewing skills - pattern cutting and City & Guilds in Lingerie! (This is good, must get my wife down to learn how to create me some special pants!)

Claire is a married mum of 3 children who attend Priestlands School & Brockenhurst College, and at the same time she juggles her husband & two dogs! (Not literally). She is also an enthusiastic tennis player (She claims, more enthusiasm than skill!) playing at Milford Tennis & Squash Club.

Claire is looking for the Timeless Fabrics shop to be a hive of creativity for all abilities. Like her previous shop, there will be a an in-house sewing machine to rent by the hour, a range of patterns, magazines & books available for inspiration and many fabrics, trims and haberdashery to create with. 

As well as the shop, Timeless Fabrics will also be running a new programme of workshops to assist anyone who would like to learn new skills and have a bit of fun.

Timeless Fabrics take great care in choosing quality fabrics, trims and patterns, sourcing them from all over the world, to stock our sewing emporium. The stock is regularly updated and keeps up to date with current trends and colours. All orders can be packaged the same day and dispatched swiftly to your door.

Please get in touch if there's anything Claire can help you with, or if there is a particular product you are trying to get hold of. She would love to hear from you.

Timeless Fabrics

61 High Street, Milford on Sea

Tel: 01590 642808 | Mobile: 07713 498459

www.timelessfabrics.co.uk

To find out more, visit the 'Timeless Fabrics' blog or find them on Facebook, where Claire shares news, ideas and inspiration!

MoS Club presentation to British Legion

LtoR: Mark Ketchen Jan England, 
Ian Silander and David Graham
click image to enlarge

The Milford on Sea Club had a very successful 'Every Man Remembered Day' on 15th November 2014.

So, successful in fact, that they raised £2900 for the Royal British Legion, and there is now a possibility that this could become an annual event.

The event organiser, Mark Ketchen and Milford on Sea Club Chairman, Ian Silander are photographed presenting the cheque to Jan England (Royal British Legion Milford Branch Poppy Appeal organiser). To the right of Jan is David Graham the Milford Branch Standard Bearer.

Well done all, it was a respectful and fun day with a great result for a worthy cause.

Milford on Sea Club

High Street, Milford on Sea

www.mosclub.org

Mystery Wall in Village

As you wander around the village, I wonder if you have ever noticed the 'Mystery Wall'?

No ideas what I am taking about? (Now you know how my wife feels on a daily basis.)

The Mystery Milford Wall
click image to enlarge

Well, coming out of The Red Lion the other night, I turned right, and walked smack bang into a brick wall. 

Picking up my dazed head & broken body, I could hear my wife's concern as she said; "Only an idiot like you could not see a wall coming". "It's OK love, nothing's broken, I'll be fine" I replied sarcastically, and then managed to get out of the way just as her handbag whizzed past my head.

I thought I must have walked into a building by mistake. ...But, I hadn't, I had walked into a random wall sticking out on to the pavement.

Still smarting, I took a mature approach and made useless statements like; 'Who put that there then", "What a stupid place to put a wall" and "If I had seen it, I could have used my SAS training and vaulted over it". 

High Street Shop
with Mystery Wall on right

I kid you not, I suspect you will have walked past this 'Mystery Wall' in the village many times, and not even realised it was even there.

On closer inspection the wall obviously has no structural purpose, it is definitely not holding anything up. (Apart from me, the split second after I walked into it.)

One side of the wall is rendered, whilst the the other is plain brick, ...how weird.

So, why is it there?

Well, your intrepid reporter decided to don his deerstalker hat, and to disguise our dog as a bloodhound, in order to resolve the mystery. 

However, ...I couldn't find the deerstalker, (probably because I never had one), and our dog just looked at me with doleful eyes as I fitted her with a brandy barrel around her neck. She had realised, much sooner than I had, that it is the St. Bernard rescue dog that has the brandy. (A bit of luck that she can't talk, I bet she would have had a great time gleefully telling my wife.)

click image to enlarge

As I did not have a pipe to make her into a real bloodhound, to her relief, I gave up.

Plan B. Forget dressing up to go out investigating, grab a whisky and settle at the keyboard for some desk research.

click image to enlarge

After a few painstaking hours, and a few pleasurable refills, I sort of cracked it. By saying 'cracked it', I actually mean I have made up what I think may be the most logical answer.

The early 1900's pictures to the left appear to show a shop front, where now only the 'Mystery Wall' remains. So, it appears that when the shop front was removed, someone decided to just leave part of the wall standing lonely and proud on its own.

It might have been left to stop people blindly walking, and then falling down The Red Lion's cellar hatch which is about two metres away. Not much of an explanation I know, but best I could come up with.

I suspect it will only be a matter of time before someone corrects me with needless facts. (Then again, when have facts made a story interesting?!)  As Mark Twain said to me when we were at school together: "Never let the truth stand in the way of a good story."

School Choir at Xmas Fair

Milford on Sea C.E Primary School’s “Worship Choir” and the village's 'Total Voice" choir will be entertaining crowds at the school's Christmas Fair on Saturday week.

The school hall will be decked out with external stallholders, giving visitors the opportunity to start their Christmas shopping early by picking up some unique gifts. There will also be lots to keep the children entertained, including a Christmas Craft room, a Wii dancing and driving room and a delicious cafe, where you can enjoy a tasty lunch or tea/coffee and cake.

The children will also have an opportunity to buy a present for their mum/dad, grandparent or sibling at the fair in the school’s “secret present” room, where no adults are allowed.

The event is organised by the Milford on Sea C.E Primary School Academy Trust.

Everyone is invited, so please pop along to support our local kids.

Milford on Sea C.E Primary School Christmas Fair 

Saturday 6th December from 12 noon to 4pm

New Milton Christmas Festival 2014

Whilst we wouldn't normally feature events on the news pages (they are all on www.milfordonseacalendar.org), our neighbours are holding a pretty impressive New Milton Christmas Festival 2014.

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It all kicks off on Saturday 29th November at 12 Noon and culminating with the switch-on of an even better Christmas Lights Display at 5:20 pm. Over 150 stalls will be located in a series of Villages in Station Road and Old Milton Road – Community, Crafts and Gifts, Food & Drinks, Products and Services and the Entertainment Villages. There will be children’s and adult rides, a huge variety of international food on offer and even a Bar located in Station Road North in a bright red Double Decker Bus – The Hop On Inn. 

There will be Open Days at The New Milton Community Association in Osborne Road and also at The New Milton Conservative Club – where there will be another chance to see the “New Milton Heritage Collection” put together by a group of local Historians - to commemorate New Milton in the years from 1886 until 1920, focusing especially on the hardship of local people during the Great War.

Steve Brookstein, the original X Factor winner and local Band “Swing Unlimited” will be amongst many performers on the Central Stage located in the centre of the town. Throughout the afternoon the finals of Forest Talent 2014 will be held with the ultimate winner getting the First Prize of £250 and helping Fred Dinenage of ITV Meridian to switch-on the Town’s Christmas lights.

The Lions Club of New Milton will lead this year’s Festival Parade which will enter from the north end of Station Road at 1:30 pm. The Parade will include motorised floats, vintage vehicles, children in fancy dress and will be headed by The Ringwood Pipe Band and will conclude with the 40 strong Meridian Corp of Drums, who appeared last Christmas in the Disneyland Parade in Orlando.

Everyone can keep in touch with the latest Festival News on the Web Site: www.newmiltonchristmas.co.uk

For More Information contact: Alan Watson - Tel:01425 610052 / 07771 754025 E-Mail: a.d.watson@btinternet.com

Recipe for Disaster

We made the mistake of accepting our friends invitation to dinner at their Milford on Sea home the other night.

Here’s the recipe for the evening!:

Ingredients

Take Four odd people, one Northern.

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Method

Sit the ingredients around a table, ply with drink and fine food. Repeat this process numerous times. Keep replenishing glasses until everyone wets themselves laughing at something they will not remember.

Serving

At the point your guests should go home, bring the cheese and port to table. Take two mouthfuls of port to each mouthful of cheese. Ensure everyone reaches a stage where anything they say does not make any sense whatsoever. Then, guide guests to front door, order a taxi and pour guests in to go home.

Foot Note

When the big one gets home, pass out and smash the bathroom sink! On waking from bathroom floor, go to lounge, wake up wife from sofa and go to bed.

Make 'note to self: No more drinking.

We have joined Facebook

OK, ...I have avoided Facebook for years, but I have decided to give myself a massive headache by attempting to understand how it works and why people do it! 

If you want to be a 'friend' you can join me at:
www.facebook.com/david.milfordonsea 

It should be fun watching me make an idiot of myself!

Milford on Sea
www.facebook.com/david.milfordonsea

Unique Opportunity to Meet Johnson Beharry VC

Milford on Sea is privileged to have the unique opportunity for people to meet and hear Johnson Beharry VC.

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Lance Sergeant Johnson Beharry VC, is the first living recipient of the Victoria Cross in more than 30 years, and he will be talking about his inspirational life experiences and how he faced enormous & unimaginable challenges.

Johnson is an engaging, charismatic and inspirational speaker with a story to enthral. He captivates an audience with his engaging style and humorous anecdotes.

If you would like to hear his incredible story, and to meet Johnson Beharry VC wearing his full military dress uniform and Victoria Cross medal, then details about how to buy tickets are at the foot of this page.

More about Johnson Beharry VC

Johnson was born in Grenada, moving to the UK in 1999. His early life had been full of challenges and he initially took the wrong path before deciding he wanted to make something of his life. Joining the army proved a challenge in itself, but his determination won through.

In August 2001 he joined the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment. After training at Catterick, he became a driver of Warrior armoured vehicles in C Company, 1st Battalion. Prior to Iraq, he served for six months in Kosovo and three months in Northern Ireland.

He then went to Iraq. On 1 May 2004, Beharry helped assist a foot patrol caught in a series of ambushes. On 1 May 2004, he was driving a Warrior Tracked Armoured Vehicle that was hit by multiple rocket propelled grenades. The platoon commander, the vehicle’s gunner and a number of other soldiers in the vehicle were injured. Beharry was forced to open his hatch to steer his vehicle, exposing his face and head to withering small arms fire. Beharry drove the crippled Warrior through the ambush, taking his own crew and leading five other Warriors to safety. He then extracted his wounded comrades from the vehicle, all the time exposed to further enemy fire. He was cited on this occasion for 'valour of the highest order'.

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While back on duty on 11 June 2004, a rocket propelled grenade hit Beharry's vehicle incapacitating his commander and injuring several of the crew. Despite his very serious head injuries, Beharry took control of his vehicle and drove it out of the ambush area before losing consciousness. He required brain surgery for his head injuries, and he was still recovering when he was awarded the VC in March 2005.

The full citation was published in a supplement to the London Gazette of 18 March 2005 and commented, "Private Beharry carried out two individual acts of great heroism by which he saved the lives of his comrades. Both were in direct face of the enemy, under intense fire, at great personal risk to himself (one leading to him sustaining very serious injuries). Beharry displayed repeated extreme gallantry and unquestioned valour, despite intense direct attacks, personal injury and damage to his vehicle in the face of relentless enemy action."

Johnson competed in the 2011 series Dancing On Ice. Today he supports a number of military charities, has his own JBVC Foundation and he is also a member of the WW1 Victoria Cross Panel. His story is told in his own book entitled: Barefoot Soldier.

Meet & Hear the remarkable Johnson Beharry VC at either of the events below:

  

An Afternoon with Johnson Beharry VC

3pm Start

First Half: Johnson's extraordinary life up to going to war.

Second Half: Johnson's heroic experiences at war and the inspiring story of rebuilding his life.

~~~ AND ~~~

An Evening with Johnson Beharry VC

7pm Start

First Half: Johnson's extraordinary life up to going to war.

Second Half: Johnson's heroic experiences at war and the inspiring story of rebuilding his life.

Tickets are £15 which includes a charitable donation. These are expected to sell out fast, so don't miss this unique opportunity and buy your tickets now. 

All profits from the event will go to The Royal British Legion’s ‘Everyman Remembered’ campaign.

Buy Tickets from: Milford on Sea Community Centre Box Office or online from: www.ticketsource.co.uk/lovemilford | Box Office open from 10am to 4pm on weekdays, and from 10am to 1pm on Saturdays. Tel: 01590 644861.

PS: Struggling for Christmas gift ideas - a ticket or two could make the perfect present for anyone!


Johnson Beharry VC
www.johnsonbeharryvc.com

Village Jigsaw Maker

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Local village artist, Shaun Stevens has now turned her hand to making a 200 piece jigsaw puzzle. The scene features 'The Owl & the Pussycat sailing around Hurst Castle'.

You can pick one up as a Christmas present for the little ones you have, or know, at the Christmas Late Night Opening of the shops (Until 8pm) on Friday 5th December. (This is also the night of Carols on the Green.)

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Along with the puzzle Shaun and Tessa van Hasselt will have new paintings and Christmas gift ideas on sale at the Hurst Castle Shop in the High Street.


Hurst Castle Shop

High Street, Milford on Sea
Normal opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9.30am to 1.30pm

Shaun Stevens
01590 673515

£2900 & £11,500 Raised for Charity

The Milford on Sea Club had a very successful 'Every Man Remembered Day' last Saturday.

Everyone enjoyed the Nostalgic Sing-A-Long with The Diamonds, a Children’s WW1 Fancy Dress Competition, Raffle, Comedy and WW1 Stories. The Grand Auction was also a success, both in the generous items donated and the generous bidding.

This excellent event raised £2900 for Royal British Legion Every Man Remembered Campaign.

Such was the enthusiasm for the day there is a possibility that this could become an annual event.

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Whilst the Milford on Sea Club was busy celebrating, the Saltern's 24 hour Sailathon was taking place. 

A record number of young Saltern’s sailors “Sailed Through The Night” in fairly clear and sporty wind conditions. The very enthusiastic, yet sometimes tired and sleepy, young members pushed themselves hard to keep a minimum of two boats on the water between 4.30pm Friday 14th and 4.30pm Saturday 15th November.

Jack Mans (10) from Milford on Sea, (winner of 2014 RLYC Youth sailing Week Bronze Optimist Fleet) alongside the Junior Commodore ( James Eady), managed as the only two to attend the full 24 hours sailing frequently throughout!

His sister Ellen Mans is the Pudsey Bear in the first picture with James Eady - Commodore in the Scow.

The prize for the most sponsorship funds raised was a VIP trip to Sir Ben Ainslie’s British Americas Cup HQ in the New Year. Salterns’ Members arrived in their abundance on Saturday to witness the end of the 24 hour Sailathon and bid on the array of sensational Silent Auction goodies including a week in a luxury villa in Antigua, Wembley Football Tickets, work experience at House & Garden, World of Interiors & Limewood with Luke Holder plus a Survival Party with a difference! Treatment Tables included tattoo’s, nails ands tombola all enjoyed alongside Birgitta’s famous Hog Roast lunch.

The Saltern's organisers send a big thank you to all those who donated prizes, bid, took part, baked cakes, gave their time and of course to all of the sponsors. 

How they do it I have no idea, but the club raised £11,500, which brings our overall 16 year total to £ £122,500 for Children in Need.

Nice work all!