To St Barbe, Me Hearties

A mention first this week for the wonderful current exhibition at St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery: its annual Open Exhibition runs until 26th of this month. 

Now in its 25th year, the Open showcases a myriad of artworks by all manner of ages and artistic abilities and includes lots of original, affordable artworks for sale. Each year, hundreds of artists submit their work for selection by a panel of experts, who carefully curate the final exhibition and award the prizes. Running alongside the main exhibition, the Young Artists Open includes the work of children up to 16 years old. Long-time St Barbe supporter Gordon Young continues to champion young talent by offering four 'Ted Marsh Awards', providing cash prizes and art materials in memory of the museum’s founding chair.

Next, big congratulations to and appreciation of the hard working volunteer team at New Forest Basics Bank, who this week received a visit from Nigel Atkinson Esq, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire. He presented the Kings Award for Voluntary Service to Chairman Oliver Stanley along with his trustees and 289 volunteers. Oliver said "I am delighted and so proud the whole team's work has been recognised, we are open every working day of the year working well into the evening regardless of weather".  It may be disappointing that the need for food banks only grows, but it's certainly a cause for celebration that we have so many selfless willing volunteers to run ours!

The record breaking queues for the opening last week of the new Oakhaven Hospice Home & Craft shop (see photo below) were a testament to local support for another team of amazing volunteers! Harkness Roses has also just introduced a very special white rose 'The Oakhaven Hospice Rose'... which would make a lovely Easter gift, it's currently on special offer plus each purchase includes a donation to the hospice.  You can order yours here!

All previously mentioned Easter holiday activities continue. And next Tuesday looks a particularly busy day with additional attractions including a Charcoal Making and Creative Session at Countryside Education Trust, an Easter Holiday Fishing Club for youngsters at Bashley, and an Easter Egg Hunt at Court Lodge.

As the world continues in its turmoil, here in our New Forest paradise I've realised that April is my absolute favourite month - everywhere the birds are singing, from dawn to long past dusk. Has anybody heard a cuckoo yet? I haven't, but have seen lapwings in several marshy areas, which is tremendously exciting because I didn't see any last year. Other ground-nesting birds begin nesting this month too: a reminder to keep our dogs close to us, on main tracks. 

Meanwhile the bluebells are spreading...if a reader who spots a beautiful array would like to send me a photo I'll feature it in next week's Weekly What's On!

AHOY ME HEARTIES: LET'S TO SEA!

As the sun continues to shine and light evenings grow ever longer, getting out to sea beckons. And if you're thinking about buying a boat, this month's feature article by Scott Bailey Solicitors is timely. With offices a stone's throw from the coast (the photo above is the view from their rooftop!) Scott Bailey has close ties with the marine community; amongst the team are keen sailors, proud boat owners and even a harbour commissioner.

Scott Bailey also has a brilliant marine team which can support you through every step of the complex process of boat buying: from ensuring the paperwork’s in order and checking the vessel is free from encumbrances, to drafting watertight sales contracts, reviewing build agreements, advising on moorings, and liaising with yacht brokers. Whether you're buying a sailing boat or a motor yacht, they can help ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

Read Celia Hawson's entertaining article and also access Scott Bailey's very informative free 'Guide to Buying a Boat'.

PLAIN SAILING LEGAL SUPPORT FOR NEW BOAT OWNERS - CLICK HERE

Best wishes Jane
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