thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Southampton homes that are selling fast due to Covid

What are property buyers now looking for in a home since the start of the pandemic ?
Nationally the housing market has seen a massive boom since the end of the first lockdown and the announcement of the stamp duty holiday .
Luke Brady , the head of residential in the south for Savills , gave us an insight into what people in the region are after when moving home since the first lockdown .
He said : `` Since reopening in mid-May there ’ s been a remarkable recovery in the housing market .
Additionally , a recent Rightmove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell is now 50 days , which is 12 days faster than the same period last year .
The report compared the national UK property market in 2019 to 2020 .
The latest statistics from YouGov showed that a third of buyers said the pandemic has made having a garden more important to them .
Whilst three in ten buyers said the pandemic made a home workspace a priority .
Here are some of the most popular properties on the market in Southampton right now : This three-bed family home has bags of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some modernisation and a touch of TLC .
There are two good sized gardens as well as ample space inside the property for a busy family .
Boasting four reception rooms there is definitely room for a home office ( or two ) and this home is being offered with no onward chain .
Find out more on Zoopla .
Another property in need of a makeover , this semi-detached house is marketed as an investment and needs a complete renovation .
Coming in at under £200,000 this home is situated in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centre and close to many amenities .
There is a rear private garden that is currently accessed by the kitchen and is in need of landscaping , once complete this could make a great outside space as it is south facing so will get sun for most of the day .
Find out more on Zoopla .
A great example of a modern family home this property boasts three bedrooms , a large living room as well as a fitted kitchen and dining room .
This property has a well-maintained rear garden with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alfresco dining .
Find out more on Zoopla .
This beautiful home has three good-sized bedrooms as well as both a front and rear garden .
The property would be ideal for a small family with the opportunity to turn the third bedroom into a home office .
The kitchen has been extended and there is an additional dining room and large lounge .
Coming in at the liimit for the stamp duty holiday is this wonderful five bedroom home .
Boasting ample space for a large busy family this property has five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything the modern buyer is after , what more could you need ?
Find out more on Zoopla .
Have you thought about moving since the first lockdown ?
Let us know in the comments .

Nationally the housing market has seen a massive boom since the end of the first lockdown and the announcement of the stamp duty holiday.
Luke Brady, the head of residential in the south for Savills, gave us an insight into what people in the region are after when moving home since the first lockdown.
He said: "Since reopening in mid-May there’s been a remarkable recovery in the housing market.
"With many anticipating continued flexible working and less frequent commuting, houses which offer more space, in well-connected town or village locations, are particularly sought-after."
Additionally, a recent Rightmove report revealed that the average time to sell is now 50 days, which is 12 days faster than the same period last year.
The report compared the national UK property market in 2019 to 2020.
The latest statistics from YouGov showed that a third of buyers said the pandemic has made having a garden more important to them.
Whilst three in ten buyers said the pandemic made a home workspace a priority.
Here are some of the most popular properties on the market in Southampton right now:
Three bed link-detached house
Millbrook Road East, Freemantle, Southampton SO15
£250,000
This three-bed family home has bags of potential but it is in need of some modernisation and a touch of TLC.
There are two good sized gardens as well as ample space inside the property for a busy family.
Boasting four reception rooms there is definitely room for a home office (or two) and this home is being offered with no onward chain.
Find out more on Zoopla.
Another property in need of a makeover, this semi-detached house is marketed as an investment and needs a complete renovation.
Coming in at under £200,000 this home is situated in a prime location not far from the city centre and close to many amenities.
There is a rear private garden that is currently accessed by the kitchen and is in need of landscaping, once complete this could make a great outside space as it is south facing so will get sun for most of the day.
Find out more on Zoopla.
Three bed semi-detached house
Staplehurst Close, Southampton SO19
£220,000
A great example of a modern family home this property boasts three bedrooms, a large living room as well as a fitted kitchen and dining room.
This property has a well-maintained rear garden with a decking area which is ideal for alfresco dining.
Find out more on Zoopla.
Three bed terraced house
Magnolia Road, Southampton SO19
£220,000
This beautiful home has three good-sized bedrooms as well as both a front and rear garden.
The property would be ideal for a small family with the opportunity to turn the third bedroom into a home office.
The kitchen has been extended and there is an additional dining room and large lounge.
For more information visit Zoopla.
Five bed detached house
Midanbury Lane, Southampton SO18
£500,000
Coming in at the liimit for the stamp duty holiday is this wonderful five bedroom home.
Boasting ample space for a large busy family this property has five bedrooms and a self-contained annexe.
With everything the modern buyer is after, what more could you need?
Find out more on Zoopla.
Have you thought about moving since the first lockdown? Let us know in the comments.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Man attacked in West Street, Fareham

Man attacked in West Street, Fareham

A MAN suffered scratches to his face and chest while trying to stop a suspected vandal .
A man in @ @ @ @ @ and chest scratched when trying to stop a man in a Fareham .
Two cars @ @ @ @ @ vandalised in a car park off West Street .
The victim who was left with @ @ @ @ @ vandal at around 7am on November 28 .
However , after a confrontation , the @ @ @ @ @ the scene .
A police spokesperson said ; `` The suspect is likely to have @ @ @ @ @ the Tesco supermarket in Quay Street .
He is described as wearing dark clothes and @ @ @ @ @ If you have any information about this crime , please get in touch by calling @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Alternatively , you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 . ''

A man in his 40s had his cheek and chest scratched when trying to stop a man in a Fareham.
Two cars and two mopeds had been vandalised in a car park off West Street.
Damage included smashed windows and slashed tyres.
The victim who was left with minor injuries saw the suspected vandal at around 7am on November 28.
However, after a confrontation, the man was able to flee the scene.
A police spokesperson said; "The suspect is likely to have run in the direction of the Tesco supermarket in Quay Street. He is described as wearing dark clothes and a face covering.
"If you have any information about this crime, please get in touch by calling 101 and quoting reference 44200460259.
"Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Pictures of Debenhams including fashion, Saints and Santa

A TOTAL of 25,000 shop jobs are set to be axed after the collapse of the Arcadia group of stores and the end of a rescue bid for Debenhams .
Debenhams has stores in Winchester , Fareham and Portsmouth .
Its Southampton store was shut during the first lockdown of 2020 .
The building on Queen ’ s Way was home to another department store , Edwin Jones , before the arrival of Debenhams .
It ’ s been more than 60 years since the new premises were erected after the original Edwin Jones store was destroyed during the blitz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A Daily Echo report at the time described the building as being “ the most up-to-date departmental store in the South.
” The official opening of the building took place on March 10 , 1959 , and a celebration dinner was held in the store ’ s Queen ’ s Restaurant the night before to mark the grand occasion .
The chairman of Debenhams , J Bedford , spoke of the city ’ s history including links with Alfred the Great , King Canute , Henry II , the Black Prince , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He also spoke of Debenhams ’ founding in 1778 .
“ I believe the future of Southampton will be even more glorious than its past , ” declared Mr Bedford .
“ We have given proof of it here because we have spent already half a million more than we received in compensation for war damage .
“ We believe that the future of Southampton is greater than its past and we look with anticipation to playing our part in the future history of Southampton as a city whose boundaries can not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Southampton would soon be elevated to the dignity of a city - something that of course happened on February 24 , 1964 .
Memories of the pre-war store were recounted and the difficulties with which staff worked during the war were spoken of .
Women represented 85 per cent of their customers and the store occupied Queen ’ s Buildings in Queen ’ s Way - so it was fitting the new store was opened by a lady - Mrs Bedford .
The managing director , Mr C Douglas Smith , heaped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the building of the new store and was presented a gold watch for the work he had carried out in its organisation .
Although owned by Debenhams since 1928 , the store kept the name Edwin Jones until 1973 .

Debenhams has stores in Winchester, Fareham and Portsmouth. Its Southampton store was shut during the first lockdown of 2020.
The building on Queen’s Way was home to another department store, Edwin Jones, before the arrival of Debenhams.
It’s been more than 60 years since the new premises were erected after the original Edwin Jones store was destroyed during the blitz of the Second World War in 1940.
A Daily Echo report at the time described the building as being “the most up-to-date departmental store in the South.”
The official opening of the building took place on March 10, 1959, and a celebration dinner was held in the store’s Queen’s Restaurant the night before to mark the grand occasion.
The chairman of Debenhams, J Bedford, spoke of the city’s history including links with Alfred the Great, King Canute, Henry II, the Black Prince, Henry V and the Pilgrim Fathers.
He also spoke of Debenhams’ founding in 1778.
Saints players in Debenhams in 1976
“I believe the future of Southampton will be even more glorious than its past,” declared Mr Bedford. “We have given proof of it here because we have spent already half a million more than we received in compensation for war damage.
“We believe that the future of Southampton is greater than its past and we look with anticipation to playing our part in the future history of Southampton as a city whose boundaries cannot be defined.”
Mr Bedford expressed the hope that Southampton would soon be elevated to the dignity of a city - something that of course happened on February 24, 1964.
Memories of the pre-war store were recounted and the difficulties with which staff worked during the war were spoken of.
Women represented 85 per cent of their customers and the store occupied Queen’s Buildings in Queen’s Way - so it was fitting the new store was opened by a lady - Mrs Bedford.
The managing director, Mr C Douglas Smith, heaped praise on everybody who came together in the building of the new store and was presented a gold watch for the work he had carried out in its organisation.
Although owned by Debenhams since 1928, the store kept the name Edwin Jones until 1973.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--15 stocking fillers your kids will love this Christmas

If you have kids , nieces or nephews , you will be well aware of what they want for Christmas by now .
But what about the stocking fillers ?
The little extras that help bring a smile to their face on Christmas morning .
Here we have compiled a list of small gift ideas for kids of all ages to help you ahead of the festive season .
An excellent gift for fierce little females .
Slide them into mini up-dos or part the hair on the side and grip one in to make a statement .
Suitable for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beginner-level needle felting kit is adorable , and the perfect happiness-boosting project , encouraging me time , mindfulness and creativity .
3 .
Woody 3 In 1 Wallet Of 18 Colours With Sharpener & Paint Brush , £22.61 ( was £37.30 ) , Stabilo ( stabilo-uk.shptron.com ) These genius grab-size colours are a colouring pencil , watercolour and wax crayon in one .
They have intense colours , are easy to grip and – most importantly , wipe off easily .
This brilliantly addictive game is perfect for all the family .
Win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete a series of crazy challenges using an assortment of random objects .
Perfect Christmas fun !
Most kids love biscuits and this Christmas tree-shaped treat is both adorable and delicious .
Handily , it will be delivered in a box that slides through your letterbox .
Perfect for anyone with or without a dairy intolerance , this posh box of chocs will be adored by any mini foodies the world over .
Satisfyingly good for moulding into dinosaurs , cupcakes and ice-creams , this fluffy sand will keep little hands entertained for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Let your mini me aim the balls at the delightful wooden skittles , shaped like soldiers , beefeaters and even Big Ben .
This is a beautiful-looking toy that will delight stylish parents , as well as their tots .
Everyone loves a game of Dobble – the card game that evens out the playing field ( and invariably kids are better at it than adults ) .
The latest version will delight LOL fans , and keep everyone entertained during quiet moments this Christmas .
A great way to encourage kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , hook this bell up to a tree or post , and try and hit it with magnetised darts .
You ’ ll hear a very satisfying ding every time you do .
11 .
Fantastic Women Card Game , £12.99 , Baltic Shop ( shop.balticmill.com ) , also available in store at John Lewis Teach girls and boys of all ages about the feminist icons who helped change the way we live today , through a card game .
Set up a match on Christmas Day and suck up some girl-powered history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a brand new range of Harry Potter-themed make-up and accessories , which is bound to delight all Hogwarts fans .
This cute Luna Lovegood compact mirror makes a lovely little surprise .
For the older kids with school work , hobbies and hangouts to juggle , Ponderlily ’ s range of planners will surely make them more organised and efficient than ever before .
The Rubik ’ s Cube for the modern generation , this electronic version contains six different games and can be played with on your own or in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suitable for up to six players , work as a team to try to solve the puzzles , pass the tests , steal the painting and flee the room , in this exciting escape room game .
For ages 8 and upwards .

But what about the stocking fillers? The little extras that help bring a smile to their face on Christmas morning.
Here we have compiled a list of small gift ideas for kids of all ages to help you ahead of the festive season.
1. Hair Slide Gift Set, £5, The Body Shop (thebodyshop.com)
(The Body Shop/PA)
An excellent gift for fierce little females. Slide them into mini up-dos or part the hair on the side and grip one in to make a statement.
2. The Crafty Kit Company Needle Felt Bee Hive Craft Kit, £16, John Lewis (johnlewis.com)
(John Lewis/PA)
Suitable for anyone aged 10 and upwards, this beginner-level needle felting kit is adorable, and the perfect happiness-boosting project, encouraging me time, mindfulness and creativity.
3. Woody 3 In 1 Wallet Of 18 Colours With Sharpener & Paint Brush, £22.61 (was £37.30), Stabilo (stabilo-uk.shptron.com)
(Stabilo/PA)
These genius grab-size colours are a colouring pencil, watercolour and wax crayon in one. They have intense colours, are easy to grip and – most importantly, wipe off easily.
4. Beat That! Board Game, £29.45, Storkz (www.storkz.com)
(Beat That/PA)
This brilliantly addictive game is perfect for all the family. Win points by betting on your ability to complete a series of crazy challenges using an assortment of random objects. Perfect Christmas fun!
5. Christmas Tree Letterbox Biscuit, £9, Biscuiteers (biscuiteers.com)
(Biscuiteers/PA)
Most kids love biscuits and this Christmas tree-shaped treat is both adorable and delicious. Handily, it will be delivered in a box that slides through your letterbox.
6. Vegan H-box, £12.95, Hotel Chocolat (hotelchocolat.com)
(Hotel Chocolat/PA)
Perfect for anyone with or without a dairy intolerance, this posh box of chocs will be adored by any mini foodies the world over.
7. Character Fluffy Sand, £7, Smiggle (smiggle.co.uk)
(Smiggle/PA)
Satisfyingly good for moulding into dinosaurs, cupcakes and ice-creams, this fluffy sand will keep little hands entertained for hours. Available in four different colours.
8. London Skittles, £16, Blue Almonds (bluealmonds.co.uk)
(Blue Almonds/PA)
Let your mini me aim the balls at the delightful wooden skittles, shaped like soldiers, beefeaters and even Big Ben. This is a beautiful-looking toy that will delight stylish parents, as well as their tots.
9. Dobble – L.O.L Surprise, £15, The Entertainer (thetoyshop.com)
(Dobble/PA)
Everyone loves a game of Dobble – the card game that evens out the playing field (and invariably kids are better at it than adults). The latest version will delight LOL fans, and keep everyone entertained during quiet moments this Christmas.
10. Huckleberry Dart Bell, £7.49 (was £14.99), Trouva (trouva.com)
(Trouva/PA)
A great way to encourage kids to play outside, even in winter, hook this bell up to a tree or post, and try and hit it with magnetised darts. You’ll hear a very satisfying ding every time you do.
11. Fantastic Women Card Game, £12.99, Baltic Shop (shop.balticmill.com), also available in store at John Lewis
(John Lewis/PA)
Teach girls and boys of all ages about the feminist icons who helped change the way we live today, through a card game. Set up a match on Christmas Day and suck up some girl-powered history at the same time.
12. Luna Lovegood Compact Mirror, £7.95, The Harry Potter Shop (harrypotterplatform934.com)
(The Harry Potter Shop/PA)
There’s a brand new range of Harry Potter-themed make-up and accessories, which is bound to delight all Hogwarts fans. This cute Luna Lovegood compact mirror makes a lovely little surprise.
13. Weekly Planner 2021 in Rose, £35, Ponderlily (ponderlily.com)
(Ponderlily/PA)
For the older kids with school work, hobbies and hangouts to juggle, Ponderlily’s range of planners will surely make them more organised and efficient than ever before.
14. Rubik’s Revolution, £20, Argos (argos.co.uk)
(Rubik’s/PA)
The Rubik’s Cube for the modern generation, this electronic version contains six different games and can be played with on your own or in a group.
15. Trapped Escape Room Game: The Art Heist, £9.99 (was £12.99), Smyths (smythstoys.com)
(Trapped/PA)
Another fun family game, suitable for up to six players, work as a team to try to solve the puzzles, pass the tests, steal the painting and flee the room, in this exciting escape room game. For ages 8 and upwards.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Items you could sell to make over £5000 ahead of Christmas

You could make over £5000 ahead of Christmas by selling unused items lying around your house , according to new data .
A new sales report by H & T has revealed items listed on online listing sites like Gumtree could earn you a bit of extra cash ahead of the festive season - and you 're sure to own a few of these items .
Now is the perfect time to make some extra cash ahead of the festive season and if you have most of these items gathering dust then you could make thousands selling them online .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment have seen a rise in popularity with more people working from home amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Sarah Buck , Head of Retail from H & T said `` It 's clear that lockdown has brought an opportunity to sell items that have become increasingly popular and products such as dumbbells are now often out of stock from high street retailers .
The most popular items being sold and searched for online : The most popular items being sold and searched for online .
With the coronavirus pandemic causing many people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment has risen .
Searches for office chairs have increased by 232 % !
If you have an ergonomically designed chair at home it could fetch £500 or over , with more basic designs selling for between £30 and £100 .
Fitness equipment has also seen a huge increase in interest with searches for dumbbells increasing by 171 % in the last year .
With increased demand , even lighter weights could sell for up to £100 , with full sets of dumbbells fetching above £1,500 .
Like office chairs , spare desks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people kit out home offices .
Whilst basic desks will fetch £10 - £30 , vintage or solid wood ones could be worth in the hundreds , meaning older furniture could help bring in a hefty amount .
If you 're looking to make some extra money during your lockdown clear up , bikes are the way to go .
Bikes are in high demand right now , so if you 've got one that you are n't using at the moment whether you 've grown out or replaced it , try advertising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As furniture stores remain closed second-hand sofas have seen a 36 % increase in interest .
Selling an old settee could earn you anywhere between £50 to £1000 depending on the quality and design .
Christmas is looking a little different this year and with many retailers closed shoppers are looking for artificial trees online .
If you have one spare it could sell for between £20 and £150 depending on the quality and size .
With the recent release of the new console old Xbox 's have been selling online as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with searches up by 23 % .
Depending on the spec and condition they could sell for up to £400 .
As with Xbox 's , Playstations , particularly the PS4 are appearing more online with searches up by 22 % .
They often make great Christmas presents and could earn up to £400 in near new condition .
The hobby you tried to pick up a few years ago but never stuck to ?
Guitars could help make some extra money in the run-up to the holidays .
Whilst rare editions can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell for between £50 and £200 .
Most of us have old phones gathering dust in a drawer somewhere , and the Apple devices could sell for as much as £500 depending on the model and condition .
To find out about some of the obscure items ever pawned see the blog post here .

A new sales report by H&T has revealed items listed on online listing sites like Gumtree could earn you a bit of extra cash ahead of the festive season - and you're sure to own a few of these items.
Now is the perfect time to make some extra cash ahead of the festive season and if you have most of these items gathering dust then you could make thousands selling them online.
Items like office chairs and home gym equipment have seen a rise in popularity with more people working from home amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Sarah Buck, Head of Retail from H&T said "It's clear that lockdown has brought an opportunity to sell items that have become increasingly popular and products such as dumbbells are now often out of stock from high street retailers.
The most popular items being sold and searched for online:
The most popular items being sold and searched for online.
1. Office Chairs
Selling for £30-£500
With the coronavirus pandemic causing many people to work from home, demand for office equipment has risen. Searches for office chairs have increased by 232%! If you have an ergonomically designed chair at home it could fetch £500 or over, with more basic designs selling for between £30 and £100.
2. Dumbbells
Selling for £30-£1,300 per item
Fitness equipment has also seen a huge increase in interest with searches for dumbbells increasing by 171% in the last year. With increased demand, even lighter weights could sell for up to £100, with full sets of dumbbells fetching above £1,500.
3. Desks
Selling for £30-£400
Like office chairs, spare desks could earn you some extra cash as people kit out home offices. Whilst basic desks will fetch £10 - £30, vintage or solid wood ones could be worth in the hundreds, meaning older furniture could help bring in a hefty amount.
4. Bikes
Selling for £35-£350
If you're looking to make some extra money during your lockdown clear up, bikes are the way to go. Bikes are in high demand right now, so if you've got one that you aren't using at the moment whether you've grown out or replaced it, try advertising it online to fetch the best prices.
5. Sofas
Selling for £50-£1,000
As furniture stores remain closed second-hand sofas have seen a 36% increase in interest. Selling an old settee could earn you anywhere between £50 to £1000 depending on the quality and design.
6. Christmas Trees
Selling for £20-£150
Christmas is looking a little different this year and with many retailers closed shoppers are looking for artificial trees online. If you have one spare it could sell for between £20 and £150 depending on the quality and size.
7. Xbox's
Selling for £100 and £400
With the recent release of the new console old Xbox's have been selling online as people look for a cheaper alternative, with searches up by 23%. Depending on the spec and condition they could sell for up to £400.
8. Playstation's
Selling for: £25-£400
As with Xbox's, Playstations, particularly the PS4 are appearing more online with searches up by 22%. They often make great Christmas presents and could earn up to £400 in near new condition.
9. Guitars
Selling for £50-£200
The hobby you tried to pick up a few years ago but never stuck to? Guitars could help make some extra money in the run-up to the holidays. Whilst rare editions can be worth thousands, more common models sell for between £50 and £200.
10. iPhones
Selling for £100-£500
Most of us have old phones gathering dust in a drawer somewhere, and the Apple devices could sell for as much as £500 depending on the model and condition.
To find out about some of the obscure items ever pawned see the blog post here.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Driver more than four-times drink drive limit banned from the roads for 5 years

A HAMPSHIRE man caught driving while more than four-times the drink drive limit has been banned from the roads .
@ @ @ @ @ driving on Christchurch Road in New Milton on September 6 .
The 53-year-old was found @ @ @ @ @ alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath , exceeding the legal limit of 35 microgrammes of @ @ @ @ @ breath .
This meant that Stephenson was more than four-times the drink drive limit .
@ @ @ @ @ Court , he pleaded guilty to drink driving .
Stephenson , of Marine Drive West @ @ @ @ @ from driving for 60 months and handed a community order .
He was fined £900 @ @ @ @ @ victim surcharge of £95 and court costs of £85 .

Matthew Stephenson was caught drink driving on Christchurch Road in New Milton on September 6.
The 53-year-old was found to have 147 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal limit of 35 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.
This meant that Stephenson was more than four-times the drink drive limit.
Appearing at Southampton Magistrates' Court, he pleaded guilty to drink driving.
Stephenson, of Marine Drive West, Barton-On-Sea, was disqualified from driving for 60 months and handed a community order.
He was fined £900 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £95 and court costs of £85.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Driver banned for speeding twice in three weeks on M27

A SOUTHAMPTON man has been banned from the road for speeding twice in three weeks .
Frederick Martin Scott , @ @ @ @ @ , St Mary 's , was clocked doing 60mph and 62mph in the restricted 50mph @ @ @ @ @ between junctions 9-10 on October 27 last year and November 17 last year , whilst @ @ @ @ @ Magistrates in Basingstoke disqualified him from driving for 14 days .
They also fined him @ @ @ @ @ a £32 victim surcharge and £85 costs .

Frederick Martin Scott, 62, of New Road, St Mary's, was clocked doing 60mph and 62mph in the restricted 50mph zone on the westbound M27 between junctions 9-10 on October 27 last year and November 17 last year, whilst driving a 61-reg Vauxhall.
Magistrates in Basingstoke disqualified him from driving for 14 days.
They also fined him £100 and ordered he pay a £32 victim surcharge and £85 costs.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--New Forest man died in hospital after a fall at home

AN 88-YEAR-old man died after he suffered a fall at home , an inquest opening has heard .
Ernest Victor @ @ @ @ @ Avenue , Lyndhurst , was admitted to Southampton General Hospital on November 16 .
Area @ @ @ @ @ Coroner ’ s Court on Tuesday : “ Mr Elsey was admitted to the Southampton @ @ @ @ @ following a fall at his home address .
He underwent surgery on November 17 , @ @ @ @ @ Mr Elsey died on November 21 and an inquest has now been opened into his @ @ @ @ @ death has been given as bronco pneumonia , congestive cardiac failure , falls , fracture @ @ @ @ @ heart disease and frailty of old age .
Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing for a @ @ @ @ @ on August 9 , next year .

Ernest Victor Elsey, of Pikes Hill Avenue, Lyndhurst, was admitted to Southampton General Hospital on November 16.
Area coroner Jason Pegg told Winchester Coroner’s Court on Tuesday: “Mr Elsey was admitted to the Southampton General Hospital on November 16 following a fall at his home address. He underwent surgery on November 17, but his condition deteriorated.”
Mr Elsey died on November 21 and an inquest has now been opened into his death.
The cause of death has been given as bronco pneumonia, congestive cardiac failure, falls, fracture neck of femur, ischemic heart disease and frailty of old age.
Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing for a full inquest to take place on August 9, next year.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Businesses in Eastleigh supported by borough council

More than 200 businesses in Eastleigh have benefited from almost £325,000 in financial support following a second period of closures @ @ @ @ @ .
The national Local Restrictions Support Grant ( LRSG ) scheme is being paid out @ @ @ @ @ business that were required to close during the national lockdown imposed from November 5 .
@ @ @ @ @ could be forced to close A business may be eligible if it occupies property on @ @ @ @ @ to the council , was required to close due to the second lockdown and has @ @ @ @ @ usual in-person customer service from its premises .
Firms that are required to close but @ @ @ @ @ may be eligible for funding at the discretion of the local council , as may @ @ @ @ @ to close but have been impacted .
Applications for funding can be made online .

The national Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) scheme is being paid out by Eastleigh Borough Council to business that were required to close during the national lockdown imposed from November 5.
A business may be eligible if it occupies property on which it pays business rates to the council, was required to close due to the second lockdown and has been unable to provide its usual in-person customer service from its premises.
Firms that are required to close but do not pay business rates may be eligible for funding at the discretion of the local council, as may businesses that were not required to close but have been impacted.
Applications for funding can be made online.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--COVID: Almost 300 new cases across Hampshire

ALMOST 300 new positive coronavirus cases have been recorded in Hampshire today Public Health England figures - as recorded on @ @ @ @ @ today ( December 6 ) - show that 289 more people have tested positive for @ @ @ @ @ hour period .
It comes as testing increases across the country .
The health body @ @ @ @ @ tests – those carried out by commercial partners – alongside Pillar 1 tests , which @ @ @ @ @ PHE laboratories and which made up the first stage of the Government 's mass testing @ @ @ @ @ confirmed cases by local authority on December 5 : Basingstoke and Deane : 25 ( @ @ @ @ @ of pandemic )

Public Health England figures - as recorded on the Government website at 4.14pm today (December 6) - show that 289 more people have tested positive for the virus in a 24 hour period.
It comes as testing increases across the country.
The health body is now including Pillar 2 tests – those carried out by commercial partners – alongside Pillar 1 tests, which are analysed in NHS or PHE laboratories and which made up the first stage of the Government's mass testing programme.
Below are the confirmed cases by local authority on December 5:
Basingstoke and Deane: 25 (2,571 in total since start of pandemic)
East Hampshire: 20 (1,581)
Eastleigh: 17 (1,715)
Fareham: 14 (1,461)
Gosport: 14 (1,146)
Hart: 12 (1,030)
Havant: 25 (1,877)
New Forest: 21 (1,913)
Portsmouth: 71 (4,645)
Rushmoor: 17 (1,614)
Southampton: 38 (4,074)
Test Valley: 6 (1,561)
Winchester: 9 (1,783)


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Coronavirus: One more death recorded across Hampshire

A SINGLE coronavirus death has been recorded in Hampshire in the last 24 hours .
Figures published by NHS England @ @ @ @ @ 6 ) reveal that one person has died with coronavirus .
Across the whole of @ @ @ @ @ died with covid-19 since the start of the health crisis in March .
The death @ @ @ @ @ NHS bringing the trust 's total death toll to 294 .
No other deaths were @ @ @ @ @ other trusts .
Across England a further 195 people , who tested positive for coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in the country to 42,389 .
@ @ @ @ @ and 100 years old .
All except two ( aged 84 to 90 years old @ @ @ @ @ conditions .
The date of death ranges from October 30 to December 5 with the @ @ @ @ @ December 3 .
In the South East there were 16 deaths .

Figures published by NHS England at 2pm today (December 6) reveal that one person has died with coronavirus.
Across the whole of Hampshire, 761 people have died with covid-19 since the start of the health crisis in March.
The death was recorded at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS bringing the trust's total death toll to 294.
No other deaths were recorded across the county's other trusts.
Across England a further 195 people, who tested positive for coronavirus have died.
It brings the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in the country to 42,389.
Patients were aged between 27 and 100 years old. All except two (aged 84 to 90 years old) had known underlying health conditions.
The date of death ranges from October 30 to December 5 with the majority being on or after December 3.
In the South East there were 16 deaths.


thedailyecho--2020-12-06--Met Office issues fog warning for Hampshire

FOG could cause travel disruption across Hampshire on Monday morning , the Met Office has warned .
A yellow weather @ @ @ @ @ issued for Southampton and the rest of the county .
There is a chance that @ @ @ @ @ than 100 metres in some places .
The warning is valid between 4am and 11am @ @ @ @ @ said : “ Fog and freezing fog patches are expected to persist over parts of @ @ @ @ @ into Monday as well as spreading further south and west .
“ The visibility will @ @ @ @ @ m in places and with the increased traffic volumes on Monday morning some transport disruption @ @ @ @ @ of what to expect , the Met Office says slower journey times and delays to @ @ @ @ @ possible , with a chance of delays or cancellations to flights .
Highs of just @ @ @ @ @ day on Monday with temperatures dropping to freezing by the early hours of Tuesday morning @

A yellow weather warning of fog has been issued for Southampton and the rest of the county.
There is a chance that visibility could drop to less than 100 metres in some places.
The warning is valid between 4am and 11am.
A Met Office spokesperson said: “Fog and freezing fog patches are expected to persist over parts of east and southeast England overnight into Monday as well as spreading further south and west.
“The visibility will drop to less than 100 m in places and with the increased traffic volumes on Monday morning some transport disruption is possible.”
In terms of what to expect, the Met Office says slower journey times and delays to bus and train services are possible, with a chance of delays or cancellations to flights.
Highs of just 5C are expected during the day on Monday with temperatures dropping to freezing by the early hours of Tuesday morning.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Soldier disarmed gunman in Above Bar Street, Southampton

AN OFF-DUTY soldier who disarmed a gunman threatening a crowd of shoppers in Southampton city centre has been recognised for his bravery .
Captain Karl Williams heard “ hysterical screaming ” before spotting a man pointing a firearm towards a “ petrified crowd ” in Above Bar Street .
• Armed police swoop on city centre bank following reports of man with gun However , the 42-year-old took the gunman to the ground .
He disarmed him and pinned him down until police arrived during the “ fight or flight scenario ” .
Capt Williams , who was born in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ For a brief second I saw his attention wasn ’ t on anyone else and that this was the brief opportunity I could safely engage.
” The hero , who had been shopping when the ordeal happened on April 16 last year , has now received an award for his “ unconditional bravery ” .
Capt Williams , who serves with the Royal Logistic Corps , said : “ On hearing loud hysterical screaming nearby , I cautiously approached the incident and observed a highly agitated man pointing a firearm towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manner .
• Man pointed gun at people and left them 'scared and shaking ' in Southampton shop “ The crowd were petrified , and I was unable to intercept the aggressor immediately due to the potential for exacerbating the situation and placing the crowd in greater danger .
“ I monitored the situation from a distance before engaging the aggressor as he began to back away from the crowd and reach into his bag .
“ It was at that point that I took him to the ground , disarming and restraining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the gunman , Karl went on to make the firearm safe only to realise it was a replica .
• Boy just 13 arrested by armed police following firearms raid He has now been recognised with a Queen ’ s Commendation for Bravery in the latest Armed Forces Operational Awards .
Scott Hanyours , 48 , of Milbrook Road East , Southampton later admitted to possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and assault by beating .
He was jailed for 12 months at Southampton Crown Court in June @ @ @

Captain Karl Williams heard “hysterical screaming” before spotting a man pointing a firearm towards a “petrified crowd” in Above Bar Street.
However, the 42-year-old took the gunman to the ground.
He disarmed him and pinned him down until police arrived during the “fight or flight scenario”.
Capt Williams, who was born in Southampton but lives in Salisbury, said: “For a brief second I saw his attention wasn’t on anyone else and that this was the brief opportunity I could safely engage.”
The hero, who had been shopping when the ordeal happened on April 16 last year, has now received an award for his “unconditional bravery”.
Capt Williams, who serves with the Royal Logistic Corps, said: “On hearing loud hysterical screaming nearby, I cautiously approached the incident and observed a highly agitated man pointing a firearm towards a crowd of people in a threatening manner.
“The crowd were petrified, and I was unable to intercept the aggressor immediately due to the potential for exacerbating the situation and placing the crowd in greater danger.
“I monitored the situation from a distance before engaging the aggressor as he began to back away from the crowd and reach into his bag.
“It was at that point that I took him to the ground, disarming and restraining him in the process.”
After grappling with the gunman, Karl went on to make the firearm safe only to realise it was a replica.
He has now been recognised with a Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in the latest Armed Forces Operational Awards.
Scott Hanyours, 48, of Milbrook Road East, Southampton later admitted to possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and assault by beating.
He was jailed for 12 months at Southampton Crown Court in June last year.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Forest Edge Care Home 'didn't test staff or residents for Covid'

A NEW Forest care home branded `` unsafe '' had not tested any staff or residents for coronavirus , a report has revealed .
A damning CQC report has rated Forest Edge Care Home , on Southampton Road in Cadnam , as `` requires improvement '' by inspectors .
The inspection was carried out in September and a report was publish late last month , revealed that four out of five categories were rated as `` requires improvement '' .
The report found the service was not safe , not effective , not responsive and poorly-led .
However , home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not match up with reality '' .
Prior to the inspection , Forest Edge had `` not engaged '' with the coronavirus testing programme .
The testing has been available to care homes since June .
• Hampshire hospital among 50 to rollout Covid vaccine – what you need to know No testing of people or staff had taken place .
As a result , the community nursing had `` declined to enter '' the service in order to treat and have oversight of people 's healthcare needs .
Residents and staff were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daily , which was guidance set by the government to prevent the spread of Covid-19 .
However , the registered manager at the home ensured inspectors that people were tested for Covid-19 before entering the service and only admitted people who had tested negative from hospital .
• COVID : Almost 300 new cases across Hampshire The report said : `` We were not assured that the registered manager had taken all of the necessary steps to keep people safe during the pandemic by ensuring that systems were in place to follow relevant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this , inspectors found one member of staff was wearing `` very long painted nails '' which could have been an infection control risk .
The report explains that although some mental capacity assessments had been completed , inspectors found that some `` significant decisions '' were being made without `` following legal frameworks '' .
However , throughout the report residents and their family members expressed that they were happy with the service .
A spokesperson from Forest Edge said : `` Unfortunately there are inaccuracies in the report and the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a very negative picture which does not match up with the reality .
`` I ca n't offer a full response [ on the report ] at present , as we are addressing our concerns regarding the report itself with CQC and other relevant bodies first , but it is likely that our response will be available to the public through our website in due course . ''

A damning CQC report has rated Forest Edge Care Home, on Southampton Road in Cadnam, as "requires improvement" by inspectors.
The inspection was carried out in September and a report was publish late last month, revealed that four out of five categories were rated as "requires improvement".
The report found the service was not safe, not effective, not responsive and poorly-led.
However, home bosses said that the report does "not match up with reality".
Prior to the inspection, Forest Edge had "not engaged" with the coronavirus testing programme.
The testing has been available to care homes since June.
No testing of people or staff had taken place.
As a result, the community nursing had "declined to enter" the service in order to treat and have oversight of people's healthcare needs.
Residents and staff were not being assessed for high temperatures twice daily, which was guidance set by the government to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
However, the registered manager at the home ensured inspectors that people were tested for Covid-19 before entering the service and only admitted people who had tested negative from hospital.
The report said: "We were not assured that the registered manager had taken all of the necessary steps to keep people safe during the pandemic by ensuring that systems were in place to follow relevant government guidance."
As well as this, inspectors found one member of staff was wearing "very long painted nails" which could have been an infection control risk.
The report explains that although some mental capacity assessments had been completed, inspectors found that some "significant decisions" were being made without "following legal frameworks".
However, throughout the report residents and their family members expressed that they were happy with the service.
A spokesperson from Forest Edge said: "Unfortunately there are inaccuracies in the report and the way in which information has been presented gives a very negative picture which does not match up with the reality.
"I can't offer a full response [on the report] at present, as we are addressing our concerns regarding the report itself with CQC and other relevant bodies first, but it is likely that our response will be available to the public through our website in due course."


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--'I always drink and drive but I get away with it': Man caught four times drink drive limit

A MAN drank `` half a bottle of vodka '' before crashing his car into another vehicle .
Matthew Stephenson was more than four times the drink driving limit when he ploughed his BMW 118 into a woman 's car .
The 53-year-old is said to have appeared intoxicated and had slurred words after getting out of his vehicle in Christchurch Road , New Milton .
• Man tore through 30mph zone at 70mph and rammed police car He offered the woman £500 and claimed he had no insurance details following the crash on September 6 , a court heard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got into his car and drove to where he lives with his mother in Marine Drive , Barton-on-Sea .
When officers knocked on his door he was holding a bottle containing an orange liquid and admitted he had been drinking vodka .
• Beer bottle and knife hurled from car during 70mph police chase in Southampton In the police van , he made admissions saying `` I knew this was coming .
I am an alcoholic .
I always drink and drive but I get away with it '' .
After being breathalysed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath - the legal limit is 35 micrograms .
Stephenson appeared at Southampton Magistrates ' Court on Wednesday charged with a single count of drink driving .
Defending , Will Day , argued his client has no previous convictions and pleaded guilty to the offences straight away .
Mr Day added that Stephenson had always been a social drinker but it had crept into his life and got heavier and heavier .
He told how his client had gone for a walk and drunk half a bottle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The magistrates ' Chair , Mr David Boniface slapped him with an 18-month community order which includes 18 rehabilitation days .
Despite previously having a full clean driving licence he has been disqualified for 60 months .

Matthew Stephenson was more than four times the drink driving limit when he ploughed his BMW 118 into a woman's car.
The 53-year-old is said to have appeared intoxicated and had slurred words after getting out of his vehicle in Christchurch Road, New Milton.
He offered the woman £500 and claimed he had no insurance details following the crash on September 6, a court heard.
However, the confessed alcoholic then got into his car and drove to where he lives with his mother in Marine Drive, Barton-on-Sea.
When officers knocked on his door he was holding a bottle containing an orange liquid and admitted he had been drinking vodka.
In the police van, he made admissions saying "I knew this was coming. I am an alcoholic. I always drink and drive but I get away with it".
After being breathalysed he was found to have 147 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath - the legal limit is 35 micrograms.
Stephenson appeared at Southampton Magistrates' Court on Wednesday charged with a single count of drink driving.
Defending, Will Day, argued his client has no previous convictions and pleaded guilty to the offences straight away.
Mr Day added that Stephenson had always been a social drinker but it had crept into his life and got heavier and heavier.
He told how his client had gone for a walk and drunk half a bottle of vodka before the crash happened.
The magistrates' Chair, Mr David Boniface slapped him with an 18-month community order which includes 18 rehabilitation days.
Stephenson must pay a £900 fine, £95 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.
Despite previously having a full clean driving licence he has been disqualified for 60 months.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--USA, Romania... Isle of Wight? Fourth  monolith found on island

A FOURTH monolith , similar to those recently found in Utah , California and Romania , has been spotted on @ @ @ @ @ recently exploded over a strange metal monolith seen standing in the middle of the Utah @ @ @ @ @ similar object has appeared on the Isle of Wight .
Initially believed to be a @ @ @ @ @ the evidence became increasingly more compelling as Islanders continued to share snapshots with the mysterious @ @ @ @ @ group took credit for the object found in Utah , so the question is , @ @ @ @ @ Isle of Wight pastiche ?
The object is around 10ft tall , and was first @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Be sure to send your pictures to editor @ iwcp.co.uk

The internet recently exploded over a strange metal monolith seen standing in the middle of the Utah desert, and now a similar object has appeared on the Isle of Wight.
Compton beach monolith. Picture by Alice Williams.
Initially believed to be a type of Photoshop hoax, the evidence became increasingly more compelling as Islanders continued to share snapshots with the mysterious monolith.
An artists' group took credit for the object found in Utah, so the question is, who is responsible for this Isle of Wight pastiche?
The object is around 10ft tall, and was first spotted this morning (Sunday).
Compton beach monolith. Picture by Alexia Fishwick.
By Lee Peckham
Be sure to send your pictures to editor@iwcp.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Calshot lifeboat searches area near Kemps Quay in Southampton

COASTGUARDS launched a search after a distress flare was seen in the skies above the River Itchen in Southampton .
@ @ @ @ @ after the flare was seen above Kemps Quay at around midnight on Saturday .
A @ @ @ @ @ Our volunteer crew were tasked to investigate the sighting of a distress flare .
`` @ @ @ @ @ Walls ’ was launched and made its way to the reported location where a search @ @ @ @ @ , with nothing found and multiple conversations with local residents drawing a blank , the @ @ @ @ @ HM Coastguard and returned to station around 1.30am . ''

RNLI Calshot Lifeboat was launched after the flare was seen above Kemps Quay at around midnight on Saturday.
A lifeboat spokesperson said: "Our volunteer crew were tasked to investigate the sighting of a distress flare.
"The Atlantic 85 ‘Max Walls’ was launched and made its way to the reported location where a search was conducted.
"Later, with nothing found and multiple conversations with local residents drawing a blank, the crew were stood down by HM Coastguard and returned to station around 1.30am."


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Firefighters called to Middlebridge Street, Romsey

A PENSIONER was taken to hospital after being rescued from a smoke-filled flat in a Hampshire town .
The elderly @ @ @ @ @ and led to safety after the blaze broke out in a property at Middlebridge Street @ @ @ @ @ arrival flat filled with smoke .
Female woken up by crews and led to safety @ @ @ @ @ airing cupboard , female taken to hospital South Central Ambulance Service . ''
• Four @ @ @ @ @ night in Southampton `` Call was received to control from a careline who reported the @ @ @ @ @ flat .
Another great example of the importance of a working fire alarm in your @ @ @ @ @ service spokesman said the fire started just after midnight yesterday .

The elderly woman was woken by firefighters and led to safety after the blaze broke out in a property at Middlebridge Street, Romsey.
Romsey Fire Station tweeted: "Mobilised by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service control.
"On arrival flat filled with smoke. Female woken up by crews and led to safety. Small fire in the airing cupboard, female taken to hospital South Central Ambulance Service."
Hants Fire Control added: "Excellent work by Romsey.
"Call was received to control from a careline who reported the fire alarm sounding in the flat. Another great example of the importance of a working fire alarm in your property."
A fire service spokesman said the fire started just after midnight yesterday.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Crews tackle bedroom fire caused by hairdryer

FIREFIGHTERS tackled a bedroom fire caused by a hairdresser that had been left on .
Crews were Rushmoor fire station @ @ @ @ @ in Church Hill , Aldershot , just after 10am yesterday .
A Hampshire Fire and @ @ @ @ @ blaze was caused by a hairdryer being left on near a pile of clothing .
@ @ @ @ @ fire was extinguished using two breathing apparatus , a hose reel , and tactical ventilation @ @ @ @ @ safety checks at the property and the stop message came in at 10.36am .

Crews were Rushmoor fire station were called to a property in Church Hill, Aldershot, just after 10am yesterday.
A Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said the blaze was caused by a hairdryer being left on near a pile of clothing.
They added: "The fire was extinguished using two breathing apparatus, a hose reel, and tactical ventilation.
"Firefighters carried out safety checks at the property and the stop message came in at 10.36am.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group in Debenhams rescue talks

Mike Ashley ’ s Frasers Group has warned that unless talks can be concluded quickly , it may not be able to save Debenhams ’ UK business .
Frasers confirmed it is in negotiations with the department store ’ s administrators about a possible rescue deal which it hopes can save at least some of the 12,000 jobs that have been put at risk by the retailer ’ s potential liquidation .
However , there are complications , and if a deal is not agreed quickly , Frasers said it may not go ahead .
“ Whilst Frasers Group hopes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place and jobs saved , time is short and the position is further complicated by the recent administration of the Arcadia Group , Debenhams ’ biggest concession holder , ” it said .
“ There is no certainty that any transaction will take place , particularly if discussions can not be concluded swiftly.
” Last week saw a bloodbath on the high street as both Debenhams and Sir Philip Green ’ s Arcadia , which owns Topshop and Burton among others , were put at risk .
Debenhams looked as though it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 242 years when JD Sports pulled out of a potential deal to buy the business out of administration .
Frasers finance boss Chris Wootton signalled over the weekend that his company might be interested in a deal for Debenhams , in an interview with the Sunday Times .
“ We hope to be able to save as many jobs as possible , ” he told the paper .
“ However , we have found that Debenhams has been overly reliant on Arcadia for many years , and , with the administration of Arcadia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end in sight to the outdated business rates regime which unduly punishes the likes of Debenhams , it may be a bridge too far .
”

Frasers confirmed it is in negotiations with the department store’s administrators about a possible rescue deal which it hopes can save at least some of the 12,000 jobs that have been put at risk by the retailer’s potential liquidation.
However, there are complications, and if a deal is not agreed quickly, Frasers said it may not go ahead.
“Whilst Frasers Group hopes that a rescue package can be put in place and jobs saved, time is short and the position is further complicated by the recent administration of the Arcadia Group, Debenhams’ biggest concession holder,” it said.
“There is no certainty that any transaction will take place, particularly if discussions cannot be concluded swiftly.”
Last week saw a bloodbath on the high street as both Debenhams and Sir Philip Green’s Arcadia, which owns Topshop and Burton among others, were put at risk.
Debenhams looked as though it might disappear from the high street after 242 years when JD Sports pulled out of a potential deal to buy the business out of administration.
Frasers finance boss Chris Wootton signalled over the weekend that his company might be interested in a deal for Debenhams, in an interview with the Sunday Times.
“We hope to be able to save as many jobs as possible,” he told the paper. “However, we have found that Debenhams has been overly reliant on Arcadia for many years, and, with the administration of Arcadia last week, as well as no end in sight to the outdated business rates regime which unduly punishes the likes of Debenhams, it may be a bridge too far.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Signage concerns over A31 highways scheme in Ringwood

The deputy mayor of Ringwood has called for the council to continue to press for signage on the A31 to avoid rat-running in the town centre and “ total gridlock and chaos ” .
The concerns were raised by Councillor Philip Day regarding the Highways England scheme which involves the widening of the westbound carriageway of the A31 and the closing of the West Street access onto the A31 .
A meeting of Ringwood Town Council last week , which was held online via Zoom , heard that Highways England had questioned the need for signage on the A31 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closure .
Councillor Day said the council was still waiting to hear more and that a further meeting had been scheduled to take place in December .
He told councillors that emails sent to the town council indicated that Highways England have an “ issue ” with signage .
He added : “ I and the mayor have responded quite forcibly with regard to that because we do have great concerns about rat-running through town and sincerely hope that between them , Hampshire County Council and Highways England , can resolve the issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far as the town council is concerned .
“ People travelling west along the trunk road need to be aware that if they do try to rat-run when there is a traffic jam or anything like that that they are not going to be able to do that through West Street .
“ If that doesn ’ t happen then I envisage total gridlock and chaos within the town centre at the first time there is a hold up on the A31 after West Street has closed .
That ties in with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being advanced.
” Mayor Tony Ring said he supported Cllr Day ’ s comments , adding : “ We will try our darnedest to make sure that Ringwood does not suffer gridlock as a result of their inaction .
”

The concerns were raised by Councillor Philip Day regarding the Highways England scheme which involves the widening of the westbound carriageway of the A31 and the closing of the West Street access onto the A31.
A meeting of Ringwood Town Council last week, which was held online via Zoom, heard that Highways England had questioned the need for signage on the A31 to advise drivers about the West Street junction closure.
Councillor Day said the council was still waiting to hear more and that a further meeting had been scheduled to take place in December.
He told councillors that emails sent to the town council indicated that Highways England have an “issue” with signage.
He added: “I and the mayor have responded quite forcibly with regard to that because we do have great concerns about rat-running through town and sincerely hope that between them, Hampshire County Council and Highways England, can resolve the issues, which have been quite longstanding as far as the town council is concerned.
“People travelling west along the trunk road need to be aware that if they do try to rat-run when there is a traffic jam or anything like that that they are not going to be able to do that through West Street.
“If that doesn’t happen then I envisage total gridlock and chaos within the town centre at the first time there is a hold up on the A31 after West Street has closed. That ties in with the traffic management and road safety schemes that are being advanced.”
Mayor Tony Ring said he supported Cllr Day’s comments, adding: “We will try our darnedest to make sure that Ringwood does not suffer gridlock as a result of their inaction.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Isle of Wight custody centre "busiest in Hampshire" say police

THE Isle of Wight custody centre is the busiest in Hampshire , police have announced , as tourists and residents @ @ @ @ @ Tier One freedom '' .
Two males from Portsmouth are currently in Isle of Wight @ @ @ @ @ in Newport town centre and several Covid breaches .
Police say they have had numerous @ @ @ @ @ , and the Island 's custody centre is currently the busiest in Hampshire .
`` @ @ @ @ @ public order , Covid breaches , breaches of various court orders and domestic assault , @ @ @ @ @ Isle of Wight Police .
`` The majority of our night has been spent dealing @ @ @ @ @ and Ryde .
`` We have dealt with some drunken juveniles , and also drunken @ @ @ @ @ where they live , and the late and night shifts have made several arrests around @ @ @ @ @ the towns .
`` We appreciate everyone wants to enjoy the Island 's Tier One @ @ @ @ @ if you are out . ''

Two males from Portsmouth are currently in Isle of Wight Police custody following a fight in Newport town centre and several Covid breaches.
Police say they have had numerous public order incidents in Newport, and the Island's custody centre is currently the busiest in Hampshire.
"We have individuals in for public order, Covid breaches, breaches of various court orders and domestic assault," said a spokesperson for Isle of Wight Police.
"The majority of our night has been spent dealing with drunken disorder in Newport and Ryde.
"We have dealt with some drunken juveniles, and also drunken adults who have no idea where they live, and the late and night shifts have made several arrests around the public order issues in the towns.
"We appreciate everyone wants to enjoy the Island's Tier One freedom but please be responsible if you are out."


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Where in Southampton was this  picture was taken?

CAN you guess where this picture was taken ?
The image , snapped in August 1964 , provides a view @ @ @ @ @ where was it taken exactly ?
It was taen in the north side of Portswood @ @ @ @ @ done if you guessed correctly .

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thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Ringwood drink driver stopped in Headlands Business Park in Nissan Qashqai

A WOMAN was caught four times the legal drink driving limit .
Julie Christie Gould was stopped in a Nissan @ @ @ @ @ off the A338 in Ringwood .
The 52-year-old of Hurst Road , Ringwood was found @ @ @ @ @ alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath on July 19 .
She pleaded guilty to the @ @ @ @ @ Court on Thursday .
Gould has been given an interim driving disqualification until her case @ @ @ @ @ .

Julie Christie Gould was stopped in a Nissan Qashqai at Headlands Business Park off the A338 in Ringwood.
The 52-year-old of Hurst Road, Ringwood was found to have 142 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath on July 19.
The legal limit is 35 microgrammes.
She pleaded guilty to the incident at Southampton Magistrates' Court on Thursday.
Gould has been given an interim driving disqualification until her case is dealt with in January.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Tom Hardy poses for picture with fan outside Hampshire Tesco

HOLLYWOOD superstar Tom Hardy might be best known for playing the bad guy , but the actor was friendly to one fan when he was spotted shopping in a supermarket .
The 43-year-old Peaky Blinders actor was snapped by a fan who saw him inside Tesco in Hook at 4pm on Thursday , and he appeared happy to pose for a socially distanced selfie .
Lucky Adie and Seimone Kelly noticed the actor as he was leaving the supermarket with a friend , wearing a facemask , as they were walking from the self-service checkout .
• We would love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ send us your brushes with fame , click here Father-of-four Adie , from Hook , said : “ Me and my wife were shopping , and I saw this guy looking my way and it was his eyes that I recognised .
He had a cap and mask on , and I said to my wife ‘ I recognise him from somewhere ’ .
“ It wasn ’ t until he spoke to his mate and he sounded exactly like he would if he was in Batman and I knew by his walk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hardy.
” Adie , a landscape gardener , took the opportunity to ask Tom for a picture , and he was happy to oblige , smiling for the selfie outside the store .
“ He said that ’ s fine but that we would have to keep our distance , ” explained Adie .
The 42-year-old said no one else appeared to have noticed , and Tom made a speedy exit .
“ He obviously wanted to get away before anyone else figured out who he was , ” said Adie .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but she got a smile from him.
” Tom , who is rumoured to be taking over the role of James Bond , relocated from London to the countryside several years ago with his wife and two children .
He ’ s recently been spotted in Guildford , where he was also happy to have pictures taken with fans .

The 43-year-old Peaky Blinders actor was snapped by a fan who saw him inside Tesco in Hook at 4pm on Thursday, and he appeared happy to pose for a socially distanced selfie.
Lucky Adie and Seimone Kelly noticed the actor as he was leaving the supermarket with a friend, wearing a facemask, as they were walking from the self-service checkout.
We would love to feature your celebrity selfies. To send us your brushes with fame, click here
Father-of-four Adie, from Hook, said: “Me and my wife were shopping, and I saw this guy looking my way and it was his eyes that I recognised. He had a cap and mask on, and I said to my wife ‘I recognise him from somewhere’.
“It wasn’t until he spoke to his mate and he sounded exactly like he would if he was in Batman and I knew by his walk, I thought that’s Tom Hardy.”
Adie, a landscape gardener, took the opportunity to ask Tom for a picture, and he was happy to oblige, smiling for the selfie outside the store.
“He said that’s fine but that we would have to keep our distance,” explained Adie.
The 42-year-old said no one else appeared to have noticed, and Tom made a speedy exit.
“He obviously wanted to get away before anyone else figured out who he was,” said Adie.
“My wife was a bit star struck, but she got a smile from him.”
Tom, who is rumoured to be taking over the role of James Bond, relocated from London to the countryside several years ago with his wife and two children.
He’s recently been spotted in Guildford, where he was also happy to have pictures taken with fans.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Nine things you may not know about Southampton's zoo

IT 'S hard to imagine there was ever a time when the roar of a lion or an elephant trumpeting could have disturbed your family picnic on Southampton Common – but some of us will remember it well .
The Daily Echo explores nine things you may not know or recall about Southampton 's zoo .
Southampton Zoological Pets Garden opened in March 1961 on one-and-a-quarter acres of Southampton Common .
The land was home to a brickmaker in 1697 , the business staying in the family until 1814 when Southampton town clerk , Thomas Riddings , acquired the land @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After the Second World War the house became derelict , having been occupied by the military and later suffering bomb damage .
The gates to the new zoo were officially unlocked for the first time by the then mayor , councillor Walter Greenaway .
The mayor was handed the key by Ben , a four-and-a-half year old chimpanzee , who went on to become a family favourite at the park .
Another chimp , James , later followed in his footsteps .
The chimps held a mischievous tea party every afternoon , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
“ Immediately an eager crowd of youngsters presented themselves and the zoo was soon well and truly open to the public , ” reported the Daily Echo at the time .
“ Ben , even if he did want to hold on to the key as long as possible , behaved with commendable decorum .
“ Just how much interest has been created by this little zoo may be gauged from the fact that some of the boys waited outside the gates for hours.
” 3 .
The cost of entrance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in today 's money The cost of entrance was one shilling and a ticket granted access to see a variety of animals including tigers , snakes , brown bears , zebra , monkeys , penguins , camels , bats , a llama and a kangaroo .
Later came Happy the giraffe , who became the proud mother of baby Edna in 1962 .
Then arrived Albert the 400lb alligator who sailed to Southampton on board the Cunard liner Queen Elizabeth from Bronx Zoo in New York .
Next came Conrad the condor followed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three young Californian sea lions who made their home in a round pond in the centre of the complex .
Keeper Bill Stokes could normally be seen feeding and caring for the animals , including Douglas the hippo , Roger the rhino and Janet the baby elephant .
Proprietor of the zoo was Jimmy Chipperfield , founder of Longleat Safari Park and part of the Chipperfield Circus family .
“ The paddocks are designed to give the visitor an opportunity to get as close as is practicable , and most of the animals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a guidebook at the time .
5 .
The most popular animal was almost certainly James One of the most popular attractions was James the smoking chimp .
Zoo-goers would toss lighted cigarettes into his cage and he would pick them up and smoke them to entertain the crowd .
Jimmy ’ s daughter , Mary Chipperfield , used the zoo to train the animals so they could be used in films and for the family circus .
The zoo continued until 1985 , but towards the end was dogged by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and local pressure groups campaigned for the attraction ’ s closure .
Actresses Joanna Lumley and Virginia McKenna even protested in Southampton , both condemning the cramped conditions with the latter branding them as “ so poor one ’ s heart sinks ” .
9 .
Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre now on the site Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre now stands on the same site , providing the public with information about the city ’ s abundant wildlife .
Youngsters with Chris Packham at Hawthorns Wildlife Centre in 1990

The Daily Echo explores nine things you may not know or recall about Southampton's zoo.
_______________________________________________________________
1. Opened in March 1961
Southampton Zoological Pets Garden opened in March 1961 on one-and-a-quarter acres of Southampton Common.
The land was home to a brickmaker in 1697, the business staying in the family until 1814 when Southampton town clerk, Thomas Riddings, acquired the land for ten shillings and two capons.
After the Second World War the house became derelict, having been occupied by the military and later suffering bomb damage.
_______________________________________________________________
2. A chimp named Ben helped with the opening
The gates to the new zoo were officially unlocked for the first time by the then mayor, councillor Walter Greenaway.
The mayor was handed the key by Ben, a four-and-a-half year old chimpanzee, who went on to become a family favourite at the park. Another chimp, James, later followed in his footsteps.
The chimps held a mischievous tea party every afternoon, and would often entertain the masses by mimicking them.
“Immediately an eager crowd of youngsters presented themselves and the zoo was soon well and truly open to the public,” reported the Daily Echo at the time.
“Ben, even if he did want to hold on to the key as long as possible, behaved with commendable decorum.
“Just how much interest has been created by this little zoo may be gauged from the fact that some of the boys waited outside the gates for hours.”
_______________________________________________________________
3. The cost of entrance was originally one shilling - around £1 in today's money
The cost of entrance was one shilling and a ticket granted access to see a variety of animals including tigers, snakes, brown bears, zebra, monkeys, penguins, camels, bats, a llama and a kangaroo.
Later came Happy the giraffe, who became the proud mother of baby Edna in 1962. Then arrived Albert the 400lb alligator who sailed to Southampton on board the Cunard liner Queen Elizabeth from Bronx Zoo in New York.
Next came Conrad the condor followed by Flipper, Dipper and Dixie, three young Californian sea lions who made their home in a round pond in the centre of the complex.
Keeper Bill Stokes could normally be seen feeding and caring for the animals, including Douglas the hippo, Roger the rhino and Janet the baby elephant.
_______________________________________________________________
4. The founder was Jimmy Chipperfield
Proprietor of the zoo was Jimmy Chipperfield, founder of Longleat Safari Park and part of the Chipperfield Circus family.
“The paddocks are designed to give the visitor an opportunity to get as close as is practicable, and most of the animals can be hand fed,” Jimmy said in a guidebook at the time.
_______________________________________________________________
5. The most popular animal was almost certainly James
One of the most popular attractions was James the smoking chimp.
Zoo-goers would toss lighted cigarettes into his cage and he would pick them up and smoke them to entertain the crowd.
_______________________________________________________________
6. The animals were trained
Jimmy’s daughter, Mary Chipperfield, used the zoo to train the animals so they could be used in films and for the family circus.
_______________________________________________________________
7. The zoo closed in 1985
The zoo continued until 1985, but towards the end was dogged by controversy as the growing animal rights movement and local pressure groups campaigned for the attraction’s closure.
_______________________________________________________________
8. Celebrities condemned cramped conditions
Actresses Joanna Lumley and Virginia McKenna even protested in Southampton, both condemning the cramped conditions with the latter branding them as “so poor one’s heart sinks”.
_______________________________________________________________
9. Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre now on the site
Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre now stands on the same site, providing the public with information about the city’s abundant wildlife.
Youngsters with Chris Packham at Hawthorns Wildlife Centre in 1990


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Lloyds brings back 10% mortgages for first-time buyers - how it works

Lloyds is bringing back its 10 per cent deposit scheme meaning first-time buyers will be able to take advantage of a cheap mortgage deal from this week .
The return of the deal marks positive news for budding homeowners , particularly following a difficult financial year for many , as a result of the coronavirus pandemic .
How does it work ?
The deposit deals will be made available from 8 December and will be available from the group ’ s Lloyds Bank and Halifax brands directly .
The maximum loan buyers can take out will be £500,000 , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a multiple of 4.49 .
The lender will monitor service levels and the criteria for the deal will be reviewed regularly .
Lloyds ’ new 10 per cent deals will not be available to existing homeowners , unless one applicant in a joint mortgage application is a first-time buyer .
New build-properties will be excluded from the scheme and an enhanced credit score requirement will be applied .
The deals also can not be used alongside any other “ lend a hand ” schemes , such as Help to Buy .
Helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with many other lenders , Lloyds pulled its 10 per cent deposit deals around the start of the coronavirus crisis in March , and has since been offering deals with a 15 per cent deposit .
Lenders have become concerned about “ riskier ” low deposit loans amid the potential for house prices to fall , meaning some borrowers could end up owing more than the value of their home .
Uncertainties surrounding many jobs in the current economic crisis also increases the risk of some borrowers defaulting on their loans .
Just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) of house sales were made to first-time buyers in October , according to the National Association of Estate Agents ( NAEA ) Propertymark .
This was up from 19 per cent in September , but still marked a six percentage point fall compared with October 2019 .
However , the return to a cheaper mortgage deal means more buyers will have a chance to get their foot on the property ladder .
Jasjyot Singh , managing director , consumer and business banking , Lloyds Banking Group said , “ Raising a deposit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for first-time buyers .
“ Reintroducing options at higher LTVs ( loans-to-value ) means we can support more people ready to get a foot on the ladder .
“ We will monitor service levels to make sure we continue to be there for our customers .
We also relaunched our Lloyds Bank Lend a Hand mortgage last month , which enables first-time buyers to borrow up to 100 per cent of the mortgage with the support of their family.
” More 10 % deals on the market Several other well-known lenders have also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent deposit market , offering new products or expanding access to low deposit deals .
Nationwide Building Society has previously announced plans to increase access to higher loan-to-value mortgage lending .
The bank said from the second week of December , it will be making 10 per cent deposit loans available for house purchase and existing mortgage members looking to move home .
This means people will have the same access to 90 per cent LTV ( loan-to-value ) loans as first-time buyers .
Yorkshire Building Society has also started offering 10 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at this level in the summer .
Its new deals are aimed at first-time buyers and existing homeowners who want to move or remortgage .
Accord Mortgages also offers 10 per cent deposit mortgages , while TSB has enhanced its first-time buyer deposit range .

The return of the deal marks positive news for budding homeowners, particularly following a difficult financial year for many, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
How does it work?
The deposit deals will be made available from 8 December and will be available from the group’s Lloyds Bank and Halifax brands directly.
The maximum loan buyers can take out will be £500,000, while the maximum loan-to-income ratio will be capped at a multiple of 4.49.
The lender will monitor service levels and the criteria for the deal will be reviewed regularly.
Lloyds’ new 10 per cent deals will not be available to existing homeowners, unless one applicant in a joint mortgage application is a first-time buyer. New build-properties will be excluded from the scheme and an enhanced credit score requirement will be applied.
The deals also cannot be used alongside any other “lend a hand” schemes, such as Help to Buy.
Helping more onto the property ladder
In line with many other lenders, Lloyds pulled its 10 per cent deposit deals around the start of the coronavirus crisis in March, and has since been offering deals with a 15 per cent deposit.
Lenders have become concerned about “riskier” low deposit loans amid the potential for house prices to fall, meaning some borrowers could end up owing more than the value of their home.
Uncertainties surrounding many jobs in the current economic crisis also increases the risk of some borrowers defaulting on their loans.
Just over a fifth (21 per cent) of house sales were made to first-time buyers in October, according to the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) Propertymark. This was up from 19 per cent in September, but still marked a six percentage point fall compared with October 2019.
However, the return to a cheaper mortgage deal means more buyers will have a chance to get their foot on the property ladder.
Jasjyot Singh, managing director, consumer and business banking, Lloyds Banking Group said, “Raising a deposit is still hands down the biggest challenge for first-time buyers.
“Reintroducing options at higher LTVs (loans-to-value) means we can support more people ready to get a foot on the ladder.
“We will monitor service levels to make sure we continue to be there for our customers. We also relaunched our Lloyds Bank Lend a Hand mortgage last month, which enables first-time buyers to borrow up to 100 per cent of the mortgage with the support of their family.”
More 10% deals on the market
Several other well-known lenders have also announced plans to re-enter the 10 per cent deposit market, offering new products or expanding access to low deposit deals.
Nationwide Building Society has previously announced plans to increase access to higher loan-to-value mortgage lending.
The bank said from the second week of December, it will be making 10 per cent deposit loans available for house purchase and existing mortgage members looking to move home. This means people will have the same access to 90 per cent LTV (loan-to-value) loans as first-time buyers.
Yorkshire Building Society has also started offering 10 per cent deposit mortgages again after withdrawing lending at this level in the summer. Its new deals are aimed at first-time buyers and existing homeowners who want to move or remortgage.
Accord Mortgages also offers 10 per cent deposit mortgages, while TSB has enhanced its first-time buyer deposit range.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--The essential winter driving kit you should keep in your car

As temeperatures plummet and and snowfall across the UK , it ’ s vital motorists are properly prepared for whatever winter throws at them .
This time of year throws up lots of seasonal hazards , ranging from iced-over windscreens to snow drifts and traffic jams but keeping a few essentials in your car can help you avoid or overcome many of these safely .
Here ’ s a list of the key items you should make sure you have : Absolutely vital at this time of year to help deice your car .
It ’ s dangerous and illegal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snow or ice so a decent scraper makes it easier to clear the glass before you start your journey .
These are important to have in your car at any time of year but shorter days , reduced visibility and the increased likelihood of a breakdown make it even more important that you can be seen should you need to get out of your vehicle at the roadside .
Winter is hard on car batteries .
Low temperatures are bad for their operation and using lights , wipers and heaters more puts additional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a flat battery .
A set of simple jump leads is the simplest way to tackle this problem and save you from being stranded .
If you break down or get caught in a traffic jam you could find yourself sitting in your car for a prolonged period .
A blanket or two will help keep you warm , especially if your engine won ’ t start or you ’ ve switched it off to save fuel .
Another important staple to keep in your car in case of accident or breakdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year can last hours , so some non-perishable snacks and a drink will keep your energy levels up and keep you hydrated while you wait .
If you have to leave your car for any reason - whether you ’ ve broken down or got stuck - you don ’ t want to be tramping about in the cold and wet in a pair of high heels or thin trainers .
Decent walking boots or wellies will keep your feet dry and give you grip on slippy surfaces .
Mobile phones can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when breakdowns and accidents are more common but they ’ re only useful if they ’ re charged .
If your car doesn ’ t have a charging facility , invest in a 12V adaptor and charging cable and keep them in your car at all times .
Another essential should you find yourself broken down or stuck in the dark .
Whether you ’ re checking under the bonnet or just making yourself visible , a torch is invaluable .
Wind-up torches mean you don ’ t have to worry about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ check your screenwash anyway , but at this time of year it ’ s easy to run out as you struggle to keep your windscreen clear of grit and other dirt .
Carrying a spare bottle of pre-mixed solution means you can quickly stop and top it up while out and about , ensuring your vision isn ’ t impaired by dirty windows .
Although daylight hours are much shorter , the low winter sun can pose a real hazard to drivers .
It ’ s easy to be dazzled either directly or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wet road , so a pair of sunglasses can help reduce this and improve your visibility while you drive .

This time of year throws up lots of seasonal hazards, ranging from iced-over windscreens to snow drifts and traffic jams but keeping a few essentials in your car can help you avoid or overcome many of these safely. Here’s a list of the key items you should make sure you have:
Ice scraper
Absolutely vital at this time of year to help deice your car. It’s dangerous and illegal to drive with your windows covered in snow or ice so a decent scraper makes it easier to clear the glass before you start your journey.
Hi-visibility jacket and warning triangle
These are important to have in your car at any time of year but shorter days, reduced visibility and the increased likelihood of a breakdown make it even more important that you can be seen should you need to get out of your vehicle at the roadside.
Jump leads
Winter is hard on car batteries. Low temperatures are bad for their operation and using lights, wipers and heaters more puts additional strain on them, increasing the chances of a flat battery. A set of simple jump leads is the simplest way to tackle this problem and save you from being stranded.
Read more: How to jump start a car
Blanket
If you break down or get caught in a traffic jam you could find yourself sitting in your car for a prolonged period. A blanket or two will help keep you warm, especially if your engine won’t start or you’ve switched it off to save fuel.
Snacks and water
Another important staple to keep in your car in case of accident or breakdown. Traffic jams at this time of year can last hours, so some non-perishable snacks and a drink will keep your energy levels up and keep you hydrated while you wait.
Sturdy shoes
If you have to leave your car for any reason - whether you’ve broken down or got stuck - you don’t want to be tramping about in the cold and wet in a pair of high heels or thin trainers. Decent walking boots or wellies will keep your feet dry and give you grip on slippy surfaces.
Phone charger
Mobile phones can be a lifeline at this time of year when breakdowns and accidents are more common but they’re only useful if they’re charged. If your car doesn’t have a charging facility, invest in a 12V adaptor and charging cable and keep them in your car at all times.
Torch
Another essential should you find yourself broken down or stuck in the dark. Whether you’re checking under the bonnet or just making yourself visible, a torch is invaluable. Wind-up torches mean you don’t have to worry about the batteries going flat.
Screenwash
You should regularly check your screenwash anyway, but at this time of year it’s easy to run out as you struggle to keep your windscreen clear of grit and other dirt. Carrying a spare bottle of pre-mixed solution means you can quickly stop and top it up while out and about, ensuring your vision isn’t impaired by dirty windows.
Sunglasses
Although daylight hours are much shorter, the low winter sun can pose a real hazard to drivers. It’s easy to be dazzled either directly or by the sun’s reflection on a wet road, so a pair of sunglasses can help reduce this and improve your visibility while you drive.


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--Thousands more cars are owned by people in Southampton than a decade ago

Thousands more cars are owned by people in Southampton than a decade ago , new figures show .
Entire communities are facing little choice but to use a car , according to the RAC , which says drivers feel public transport `` simply is n't practical or does n't meet their needs '' in many areas of the country .
Figures from the Department for Transport reveal there were 96,700 car registrations for addresses in Southampton in June this year .
That number is up from 88,264 in 2010 , an increase of 10 % .
It means there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the average for Britain is 1.7 .
The rise of cars in Southampton reflects the national picture which has also seen increases in local authority areas with the highest proportions of deprived neighbourhoods .
Across Britain , car ownership has risen 11 % from 2010 .
According to the Bank of England , personal contract purchase plans account for one in five new cars and the rise in popularity of these finance schemes that avoid high upfront costs may be contribtuting to the rise in ownership .
RAC ’ s Report on Motoring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said a car was essential for shopping and 59 % for meeting with friends and family elsewhere in the country .
Spokesman Rod Dennis said : “ Even before the pandemic , drivers told us they were becoming more , not less reliant on their cars .
`` It ’ s easy to see why .
As well as the obvious benefits a car brings for families in particular , many drivers have felt for a long time that public transport either simply isn ’ t practical or doesn ’ t meet their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too expensive and running too infrequently .
`` This is particularly the case outside larger towns and cities , where entire communities often have little choice but to use a car , and could help explain why car ownership is rising in many parts of the country . ''
Walking and cycling charity Sustrans says there is a risk people will be locked into car dependency unless councils provide viable alternatives by making walking and cycling safer for everyday journeys .
Policy officer Daniel Gillett said : “ Car ownership and use is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factors , such as distance and access to everyday services , public transport provision and how safe it feels to walk and cycle locally , also play a role in whether people choose to buy or use a car . ''
The figures from the DfT show that there were 32 million cars registered across Britain in June , up from 28 million in 2010 .
The statistics are collected at neighbourhood level and have been grouped under local authority areas for analysis .
They include vehicles registered to dealerships or which are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in some areas may be inflated .
The DfT says it is investing £27 billion into its road network over the next five years .
The department is also promoting the use of ultra low and zero emission vehicles in support of the Government 's commitment for net zero carbon emissions by 2050 .
This includes encouraging the use of `` more sustainable transport '' .

Entire communities are facing little choice but to use a car, according to the RAC, which says drivers feel public transport "simply isn't practical or doesn't meet their needs" in many areas of the country.
Figures from the Department for Transport reveal there were 96,700 car registrations for addresses in Southampton in June this year.
That number is up from 88,264 in 2010, an increase of 10%.
It means there is one car for every 2.1 adults – the average for Britain is 1.7.
The rise of cars in Southampton reflects the national picture which has also seen increases in local authority areas with the highest proportions of deprived neighbourhoods.
Across Britain, car ownership has risen 11% from 2010.
According to the Bank of England, personal contract purchase plans account for one in five new cars and the rise in popularity of these finance schemes that avoid high upfront costs may be contribtuting to the rise in ownership.
RAC’s Report on Motoring this year found 68% of people said a car was essential for shopping and 59% for meeting with friends and family elsewhere in the country.
Spokesman Rod Dennis said: “Even before the pandemic, drivers told us they were becoming more, not less reliant on their cars.
"It’s easy to see why. As well as the obvious benefits a car brings for families in particular, many drivers have felt for a long time that public transport either simply isn’t practical or doesn’t meet their needs, with services often seen as too expensive and running too infrequently.
"This is particularly the case outside larger towns and cities, where entire communities often have little choice but to use a car, and could help explain why car ownership is rising in many parts of the country."
Walking and cycling charity Sustrans says there is a risk people will be locked into car dependency unless councils provide viable alternatives by making walking and cycling safer for everyday journeys.
Policy officer Daniel Gillett said: “Car ownership and use is principally associated with income, but other factors, such as distance and access to everyday services, public transport provision and how safe it feels to walk and cycle locally, also play a role in whether people choose to buy or use a car."
The figures from the DfT show that there were 32 million cars registered across Britain in June, up from 28 million in 2010.
The statistics are collected at neighbourhood level and have been grouped under local authority areas for analysis.
They include vehicles registered to dealerships or which are part of fleets, so an increase in some areas may be inflated.
The DfT says it is investing £27 billion into its road network over the next five years.
The department is also promoting the use of ultra low and zero emission vehicles in support of the Government's commitment for net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
This includes encouraging the use of "more sustainable transport".


thedailyecho--2020-12-07--LETTER - Hospital stay showed me what NHS staff have to tolerate from patients

I have just spent six days in Southampton General hospital and firstly would like to praise staff for all being helpful , caring , polite and when I had a tearful moment , supportive .
Secondly the attitude of some fellow patients I found totally unacceptable bordering on abuse ; accusing a qualified nurse that he was not capable of taking her blood pressure spoken in an unacceptable tone - the nurse being polite and on at least two occasions politely confirmed he was qualified .
Another patient pressing the call button demanding a nurse ‘ push the trolley nearer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happened to ‘ please ’ and ‘ thank you ’ ?
Patient who should have gone home today by ambulance but due to ‘ emergencies ’ an ambulance was not available ( why are ambulances being used for transporting healthy people home ?
Get a family member / friend to transport you ) is still being unreasonable to the nurses and refusing to go to bed to sleep and constantly shouting I want to go home today ... .. certainly seeing another side of the human race and what NHS staff have to @ @