thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Energy efficient streetlights for Lee-on-the-Solent in New Year

MORE streetlights in Hampshire will be upgraded in the new year as part of £3.2m investment to improve the county 's carbon footprint .
Dozens of streetlights in Lee-on-the-Solent will be replaced as Hampshire County Council wants to reduce its energy consumption .
75 lamps in the town will be replaced with energy efficient LED lights .
Earlier this year , 12,000 high-powered lamps were replaced with more efficient LEDs .
It comes as part of the council 's £3.2m investment which is set to save the authority £500,000 .
Roads that will benefit include : Richmond Roar , Victoria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Kings Road , Nottingham Place and the southern section of Swanage Road .
The new LED lights only use 12W ( the current lights use 37W ) to make a 66 % energy reduction .
Executive member for economy , transport and environment , Cllr Rob Humby said : “ By replacing our older streetlights with LEDs , we are not only reducing costs but also saving energy which reduces Hampshire ’ s carbon footprint .
By doing this we will be reducing energy consumption of Lee-on-the-Solent ’ s streetlights by 66 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ replace these lights for at least 25 years .
It is important that we continue to find green solutions as we press ahead with our ambition to become carbon neutral by 2050 .
”

Dozens of streetlights in Lee-on-the-Solent will be replaced as Hampshire County Council wants to reduce its energy consumption.
75 lamps in the town will be replaced with energy efficient LED lights.
Earlier this year, 12,000 high-powered lamps were replaced with more efficient LEDs.
It comes as part of the council's £3.2m investment which is set to save the authority £500,000.
Roads that will benefit include: Richmond Roar, Victoria Square, Montserrat Road, Osborne Road, Kings Road, Nottingham Place and the southern section of Swanage Road.
The new LED lights only use 12W (the current lights use 37W) to make a 66% energy reduction.
Executive member for economy, transport and environment, Cllr Rob Humby said: “By replacing our older streetlights with LEDs, we are not only reducing costs but also saving energy which reduces Hampshire’s carbon footprint. By doing this we will be reducing energy consumption of Lee-on-the-Solent’s streetlights by 66 per cent, and not need to replace these lights for at least 25 years. It is important that we continue to find green solutions as we press ahead with our ambition to become carbon neutral by 2050.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--AGONY ADVICE: Debt advice and how to cope with mounting housework and a lack of help

Columnist and trained counsellor Fiona Caine offers guidance to a man struggling with debt and a woman whose family take her for granted .
I 'M STRUGGLING WITH DEBT AND MISS MY DAUGHTER I am 32 and my life is in a mess .
For four years I lived with my girlfriend and we had a daughter together who is the best thing that 's ever happened to me .
However , the relationship with my girlfriend has fallen apart because we argued all the time .
She also saw her ex-husband behind my back .
One day I came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our daughter with her .
She left me deep in debt with arrears in rent , water and credit cards , which she talked me into taking out in my name .
She then set her solicitor on me to try and claim money for maintenance - which I 'm more than happy to do but she did n't even try to come to some sort of agreement beforehand .
I 've been struggling for two years to meet minimum payments on all the debts she built up .
On top of that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decided to move to the other end of the country , and I have to find an extra £20 for petrol every week just to see my daughter .
My company has cut back on everything because of Covid and I ca n't get another part time job right now to try and cope with this debt .
I 've been in touch with the Citizens ' Advice Bureau for help but all in all , I feel like a complete failure and I can not see a future for me .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dream I had for a happy family life and home is gone .
I feel so alone and what woman is going to want anything to do with me in this financial state ?
Will I ever be able to get loans or credit again ?
FIONA SAYS : DEBT IS SOLVABLE - WITH TIME Until your current financial problems are resolved , or at best controlled , I think loans and credit are the last things you should be worrying about right now .
Because of coronavirus and the subsequent economic effects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financially right now .
That is particularly challenging with Christmas on the horizon .
No debt problems are unsolvable though , and whilst it may take time , there is a way to deal with them and the sooner you do so , the better .
You 've done the right thing by going to the Citizens ' Advice Bureau and I am sure they will be able to negotiate a workable solution for your debt problems for you .
I would also suggest you look at the website for StepChange ( stepchange.org @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help people get their finances back on track .
Their comprehensive website is full of useful advice , and they can help you to set up a debt management plan .
The very fact you 've acknowledged you have a problem is a good thing .
So many people simply shut their eyes when they get into financial difficulties and hope things will resolve themselves - which of course , they do n't .
If debts are ignored , things will only get worse but , in time , and if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ credit history will improve .
However , this is not going to happen overnight and , whilst this is probably not what you want to hear , I 'm afraid patience is the key .
You 've had more than your fair share of problems in the last couple of years and I can understand why you feel so down , but please try to stay positive , especially when you see you daughter .
If she gets any inkling that you are finding it difficult to see her , she may start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsible for making you miserable - and that 's the last thing you want .
As for finding a new relationship , do n't assume that debt is going to stop you having relationships .
Not everyone is motivated by money and , if you show yourself to be a responsible , caring person , there are plenty of women who are going to be interested .
MY FAMILY TAKE EVERYTHING I DO FOR GRANTED I 'm the only person in the family who has been holding down a job over the past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of family does nothing to help .
We have three teenage children who seem totally self-absorbed .
They seem to think food , clean clothes and a warm place to sleep are acts of modern magic that simply appear for their benefit .
I blame my husband for this as he seems quite content for me to provide all of this , even though I 'm the one working .
I 'm angry and depressed and finding it increasingly difficult to motivate myself .
Yesterday I sat around the house all day in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nothing but watch TV .
My family just carried on as usual and , when they realised I 'd not cooked any supper , rather than offer to help , my husband ordered a take-away .
How do I get their attention , and get them motivated ?
FIONA SAYS : SPEAK TO YOUR FAMILY AND SHARE OUT REPSONSIBILITIES You do n't say if your family has always been like this or if it 's just a result of the pandemic .
That is no reason for them taking you for granted though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deal with it .
If , in the past , they 've taken their turns at helping , it 's possible they 're all struggling and feeling depressed by the current situation .
If that 's the case then , however upset you are , you are going to have to treat them gently .
Depression can make people very self-absorbed and although you are carrying the load right now , they may need help to recognise the fact .
If , on the other hand , they 've always been allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you are going to have to be quite assertive to get them to change their ways .
Whichever way this has happened , I suggest you start with your husband .
Tell him how you are feeling and make sure he understands that you 're finding it all too much .
Hopefully , you can motivate him to start helping at least a little .
I would then encourage you to try and arrange a family talk and explain to your teenagers how they are making you feel .
Suggest that , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giving way to depression and illness , they should all take responsibility for a fair share of work around the house .
I 'd like to hope that this will be the wake-up call they need , although you may have to help them initially by organising timetables and a cleaning rota .
Whilst they are certainly taking you for granted right now , it 's possibly because they see you as the strong one , who is carrying on whilst the rest are falling apart .
They need to understand you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helping , I think you will have to resort to stronger tactics .
You 've hit upon a good one already - stop doing all the things they 've grown used to you doing .
Instead , only do those things that you WANT to do for your own benefit ; wash only your only clothes , clean your own room and prepare your own food .
It may take a while for them to wake up , but hopefully this will convince them you are serious about this and that you need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm also acutely aware , though , that some men - and probably some teenagers too - simply wo n't care .
An over-flowing rubbish bin , a dirty toilet and unwashed clothes may not bother them as they would bother you , so leaving things undone may make you feel like you 're suffering even more .
So , stopping doing things needs to be combined with an effort to educate them into understanding that a clean , healthy happy home requires an emotional commitment by everyone living in it !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last week I bumped into an old boyfriend of mine who I 've not seen since I dumped him six years ago .
I felt really embarrassed ; I was awful and dumped him publicly in front of his mates .
He seemed to have forgotten all about it and just chatted away , telling me he 'd just moved back after being away and that he was looking to meet up with old friends again .
All I could think of was how badly I 'd treated him , so I left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is , I 've not been able to forget about our meeting and wonder if this means I 'm still attracted to him .
I 'm married now and until this meeting I 've not questioned my love for my husband .
Should I try and meet my old boyfriend and apologise ?
FIONA SAYS : SOMETIMES IT 'S BEST TO JUST MOVE ON In an ideal world it would be nice to apologise to anyone we 've hurt in the past , but I 'm not sure this is practical or how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have moved on quite happily and perhaps you should do the same .
Re-establishing contact with this man now you 're married carries some risk , especially if you think there may still be some attraction there .
I think it 's far more likely that seeing him again has brought back an unpleasant memory and you 're feeling guilty about the way you dumped him .
If you do meet up again , be polite , but please do n't read too much into this .
I have been going out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last year .
Because we live some distance apart and , because , of course , the virus , we 've not managed to see much of one another .
He 's also on a zero-hours contract and works shifts , so I never know when I 'm going to see him .
This is making me feel very insecure and I 've lost a lot of confidence .
I 've not seen my friends and I 'm feeling lonely and depressed .
I 've suggested to him things might improve if we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even get married , but he always seems able to avoid giving me an answer .
I can understand why you feel the need for some sort of stability in this relationship but please try not to place all your hopes for the future on this young man .
The harsh truth is that most 19-year-old men are simply not ready to make any sort of lasting commitment .
To expect him to do so when you 've had a long distance relationship for the past year , is really asking too much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitment , he might just you push away .
Maintaining relationships has been hard for everyone , but it can be done .
Contact those friends you 've not seen and try to arrange a social get-together via a video call .
I know it 's not the same , but it helps - and it will help them , as much as it will help you .
Given time - and in normal times - this relationship may develop into something more serious but , if it does n't , you 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who care about you .
If you have a problem you need help with , email Fiona by writing to help @ askfiona.net for advice .
All letters are treated in complete confidence and , to protect this privacy , Fiona is unable to pass on your messages to other readers .
Fiona regrets that she can not enter into personal correspondence .

I'M STRUGGLING WITH DEBT AND MISS MY DAUGHTER
I am 32 and my life is in a mess.
For four years I lived with my girlfriend and we had a daughter together who is the best thing that's ever happened to me.
However, the relationship with my girlfriend has fallen apart because we argued all the time.
She also saw her ex-husband behind my back.
One day I came home, and she'd gone taking our daughter with her.
She left me deep in debt with arrears in rent, water and credit cards, which she talked me into taking out in my name.
She then set her solicitor on me to try and claim money for maintenance - which I'm more than happy to do but she didn't even try to come to some sort of agreement beforehand.
I've been struggling for two years to meet minimum payments on all the debts she built up.
On top of that, with Christmas coming, she's decided to move to the other end of the country, and I have to find an extra £20 for petrol every week just to see my daughter.
My company has cut back on everything because of Covid and I can't get another part time job right now to try and cope with this debt.
I've been in touch with the Citizens' Advice Bureau for help but all in all, I feel like a complete failure and I cannot see a future for me.
I've destroyed my credit history and any dream I had for a happy family life and home is gone.
I feel so alone and what woman is going to want anything to do with me in this financial state?
Will I ever be able to get loans or credit again?
D. P.
FIONA SAYS: DEBT IS SOLVABLE - WITH TIME
Until your current financial problems are resolved, or at best controlled, I think loans and credit are the last things you should be worrying about right now.
Because of coronavirus and the subsequent economic effects, more and more people are struggling financially right now.
That is particularly challenging with Christmas on the horizon.
No debt problems are unsolvable though, and whilst it may take time, there is a way to deal with them and the sooner you do so, the better.
You've done the right thing by going to the Citizens' Advice Bureau and I am sure they will be able to negotiate a workable solution for your debt problems for you.
I would also suggest you look at the website for StepChange (stepchange.org) which is a charity set up to help people get their finances back on track.
Their comprehensive website is full of useful advice, and they can help you to set up a debt management plan.
The very fact you've acknowledged you have a problem is a good thing.
So many people simply shut their eyes when they get into financial difficulties and hope things will resolve themselves - which of course, they don't.
If debts are ignored, things will only get worse but, in time, and if you continue to make regular payments, your credit history will improve.
However, this is not going to happen overnight and, whilst this is probably not what you want to hear, I'm afraid patience is the key.
You've had more than your fair share of problems in the last couple of years and I can understand why you feel so down, but please try to stay positive, especially when you see you daughter.
If she gets any inkling that you are finding it difficult to see her, she may start to feel guilty and think she's responsible for making you miserable - and that's the last thing you want.
As for finding a new relationship, don't assume that debt is going to stop you having relationships.
Not everyone is motivated by money and, if you show yourself to be a responsible, caring person, there are plenty of women who are going to be interested.
MY FAMILY TAKE EVERYTHING I DO FOR GRANTED
I am a busy, overworked and increasingly angry housewife.
I'm the only person in the family who has been holding down a job over the past nine months or so while the rest of family does nothing to help.
We have three teenage children who seem totally self-absorbed.
They seem to think food, clean clothes and a warm place to sleep are acts of modern magic that simply appear for their benefit.
I blame my husband for this as he seems quite content for me to provide all of this, even though I'm the one working.
I'm angry and depressed and finding it increasingly difficult to motivate myself.
Yesterday I sat around the house all day in a dirty T-shirt and shorts and did nothing but watch TV. My family just carried on as usual and, when they realised I'd not cooked any supper, rather than offer to help, my husband ordered a take-away.
How do I get their attention, and get them motivated?
Z. V.
FIONA SAYS: SPEAK TO YOUR FAMILY AND SHARE OUT REPSONSIBILITIES
You don't say if your family has always been like this or if it's just a result of the pandemic.
That is no reason for them taking you for granted though, but it does affect how you deal with it.
If, in the past, they've taken their turns at helping, it's possible they're all struggling and feeling depressed by the current situation.
If that's the case then, however upset you are, you are going to have to treat them gently.
Depression can make people very self-absorbed and although you are carrying the load right now, they may need help to recognise the fact.
If, on the other hand, they've always been allowed to get away without helping, I think you are going to have to be quite assertive to get them to change their ways.
Whichever way this has happened, I suggest you start with your husband.
Tell him how you are feeling and make sure he understands that you're finding it all too much.
Hopefully, you can motivate him to start helping at least a little.
I would then encourage you to try and arrange a family talk and explain to your teenagers how they are making you feel.
Suggest that, to avoid the very real risk of you giving way to depression and illness, they should all take responsibility for a fair share of work around the house.
I'd like to hope that this will be the wake-up call they need, although you may have to help them initially by organising timetables and a cleaning rota.
Whilst they are certainly taking you for granted right now, it's possibly because they see you as the strong one, who is carrying on whilst the rest are falling apart.
They need to understand you are vulnerable too so, if they resist helping, I think you will have to resort to stronger tactics.
You've hit upon a good one already - stop doing all the things they've grown used to you doing. Instead, only do those things that you WANT to do for your own benefit; wash only your only clothes, clean your own room and prepare your own food.
It may take a while for them to wake up, but hopefully this will convince them you are serious about this and that you need to pull together as a family.
I'm also acutely aware, though, that some men - and probably some teenagers too - simply won't care.
An over-flowing rubbish bin, a dirty toilet and unwashed clothes may not bother them as they would bother you, so leaving things undone may make you feel like you're suffering even more.
So, stopping doing things needs to be combined with an effort to educate them into understanding that a clean, healthy happy home requires an emotional commitment by everyone living in it!
SHOULD I APOLOGISE TO AN EX?
Last week I bumped into an old boyfriend of mine who I've not seen since I dumped him six years ago.
I felt really embarrassed; I was awful and dumped him publicly in front of his mates.
He seemed to have forgotten all about it and just chatted away, telling me he'd just moved back after being away and that he was looking to meet up with old friends again.
All I could think of was how badly I'd treated him, so I left in a hurry.
The silly thing is, I've not been able to forget about our meeting and wonder if this means I'm still attracted to him.
I'm married now and until this meeting I've not questioned my love for my husband.
Should I try and meet my old boyfriend and apologise?
O. L.
FIONA SAYS: SOMETIMES IT'S BEST TO JUST MOVE ON
In an ideal world it would be nice to apologise to anyone we've hurt in the past, but I'm not sure this is practical or how it would be understood.
He seems to have moved on quite happily and perhaps you should do the same.
Re-establishing contact with this man now you're married carries some risk, especially if you think there may still be some attraction there.
I think it's far more likely that seeing him again has brought back an unpleasant memory and you're feeling guilty about the way you dumped him.
If you do meet up again, be polite, but please don't read too much into this.
MY LONG-DISTANCE RELATIONSHIP IS PROVING DIFFICULT
I have been going out with my boyfriend since just before Christmas last year.
Because we live some distance apart and, because, of course, the virus, we've not managed to see much of one another.
He's also on a zero-hours contract and works shifts, so I never know when I'm going to see him.
This is making me feel very insecure and I've lost a lot of confidence.
I've not seen my friends and I'm feeling lonely and depressed.
I've suggested to him things might improve if we could share a flat, or perhaps even get married, but he always seems able to avoid giving me an answer.
R. B.
FIONA SAYS:
I can understand why you feel the need for some sort of stability in this relationship but please try not to place all your hopes for the future on this young man.
The harsh truth is that most 19-year-old men are simply not ready to make any sort of lasting commitment.
To expect him to do so when you've had a long distance relationship for the past year, is really asking too much.
If you pressure him for a commitment, he might just you push away.
Maintaining relationships has been hard for everyone, but it can be done.
Contact those friends you've not seen and try to arrange a social get-together via a video call.
I know it's not the same, but it helps - and it will help them, as much as it will help you.
Given time - and in normal times - this relationship may develop into something more serious but, if it doesn't, you'll still have support and friendship from those who care about you.
If you have a problem you need help with, email Fiona by writing to help@askfiona.net for advice. All letters are treated in complete confidence and, to protect this privacy, Fiona is unable to pass on your messages to other readers. Fiona regrets that she cannot enter into personal correspondence.


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - More should be done to protect the New Forest ponies

I ’ VE JUST watched the news and feel utterly heart broken to hear record amounts of ponies / donkeys killed this weekend in the New Forest .
As there was another road closure and traffic diverted , this is obviously the reason why .
I can ’ t understand in such situations why emergency road side lighting isn ’ t provided to protect the animals ?
I know it ’ s not allowed permanently but surely if anyone cares about the animals , famous for roaming in the New Forest , more should be done to protect them the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
The highways agency manage the roads safely after an accident etc .
so why can ’ t they put some flashing or temporary lights down on the forests critical roadsides when this happens ?
Maybe the idiots driving too fast might then be deterred from killing the poor ponies that many of us from the local area have come to love .
Or perhaps the police could put more signage up and a couple of their mobile speed cameras they park on various locations where people tend to speed ?
The roads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give the animals a chance at night and do more to highlight this from regularly happening ?

As there was another road closure and traffic diverted, this is obviously the reason why.
I can’t understand in such situations why emergency road side lighting isn’t provided to protect the animals?
I know it’s not allowed permanently but surely if anyone cares about the animals, famous for roaming in the New Forest, more should be done to protect them the moment a road is closed and diverted?
The highways agency manage the roads safely after an accident etc. so why can’t they put some flashing or temporary lights down on the forests critical roadsides when this happens?
Maybe the idiots driving too fast might then be deterred from killing the poor ponies that many of us from the local area have come to love.
Or perhaps the police could put more signage up and a couple of their mobile speed cameras they park on various locations where people tend to speed?
The roads are too dark anyway, but please give the animals a chance at night and do more to highlight this from regularly happening?
Distraught.
Kirsty Ellis


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - Have Tories morphed into English National Party?

MR INGRAM is quite correct in his assessment of how the Tories swallowed UKIP to prevent the vote on the right in politics from being split , but neglects to mention what has happened to them as a result .
Is the present Tory Party what the Conservative Party traditionally was ?
Is n't it the case that , having sold their souls to the extremists , they 've morphed into an English Nationalist party ?
Traditional Tories would never have contemplated leaving the EU , the world 's strongest economic bloc .
The problem for the left is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socialist left .
As a Liberal , I could find common ground with progressive Labour , but never with socialist Labour .
The difference between liberals and socialists is philosophical .
We just do n't see the world in the same way .
Talk of any kind of merger always boils down , in Labour 's eyes , to the Lib Dems allowing themselves to be swallowed up by them , and that 's a non-starter .
It was amply demonstrated in the last election when the Labour candidate for Eastleigh , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ councillor for ten years and where the Lib Dems control the council by 34 seats to five ( three Independents and two Tories ) , calling on us to stand aside .
Really ?
In my most recent book , ' A 20-20 Vision ' , I set out in just 50 pages a workable plan whereby the left - Lib Dems , Labour and Greens - could remove the Tories from office at the next election and set a course for progressive government in future .
It requires statesmanship of the highest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ £4.95 it wo n't break the bank , and will provoke some serious thinking ( with a few laughs thrown in for good measure ! )
.
Serious thinking is what I 've been doing in 60 years in politics .
You can now read the results .

Is the present Tory Party what the Conservative Party traditionally was?
Isn't it the case that, having sold their souls to the extremists, they've morphed into an English Nationalist party?
Traditional Tories would never have contemplated leaving the EU, the world's strongest economic bloc.
The problem for the left is that it's divided between progressive left and socialist left.
As a Liberal, I could find common ground with progressive Labour, but never with socialist Labour.
The difference between liberals and socialists is philosophical.
We just don't see the world in the same way.
Talk of any kind of merger always boils down, in Labour's eyes, to the Lib Dems allowing themselves to be swallowed up by them, and that's a non-starter.
It was amply demonstrated in the last election when the Labour candidate for Eastleigh, a borough which hasn't had a Labour councillor for ten years and where the Lib Dems control the council by 34 seats to five (three Independents and two Tories), calling on us to stand aside. Really?
In my most recent book, 'A 20-20 Vision', I set out in just 50 pages a workable plan whereby the left - Lib Dems, Labour and Greens - could remove the Tories from office at the next election and set a course for progressive government in future.
It requires statesmanship of the highest order from the party leaders.
At £4.95 it won't break the bank, and will provoke some serious thinking (with a few laughs thrown in for good measure!).
Serious thinking is what I've been doing in 60 years in politics. You can now read the results.
Martin Kyrle
Chandler's Ford


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Southampton primary school creates Christmas hampers for families

A Southampton primary school has teamed up with local businesses to provide hampers for families in need this Christmas .
Staff at Harefield Primary School in Bitterne have recently started distributing the hampers - currently enough to support 48 families .
Year one teacher Zoe Cooper , who has worked at the school for 13 years , has thanked staff , parents and local business for their community spirit .
The inspiration came as normal fundraising events at the school were cancelled due to COVID restrictions .
Ms Cooper said : `` This year we had the idea that instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been fundraising events like fayres and performances , we would instead collect donations of food or create hampers for families in need during winter .
Staff said they have been `` overwhelmed '' by the community spirit shown by staff , families at the school and local busineses who have donated to the hampers .
Ms Cooper said : `` It does n't matter what your situation is , COVID has affected everyone . ''
`` We sent a letter out to parents and we said you do n't have to meet certain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family could benefit from a gift of a hamper , please let us know . ''
Parents also nominated other families to receive a hamper .
`` If you can say one thing about Harefield it 's that people support one another '' , added Ms Cooper .
On receiving a hamper , parent Lorna Thomas said : `` Thank you for the kindness and generosity of the community . ''
The school has received donations from local businesses including the nearby One Stop Shop , which donated £200 worth of food and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harefield Fish Bar on Somerset Avenue provided meal vouchers and there was a donation of chocolate brownies from Wonderberrys cake shop on Swanwick Lane .
Local community group The Big Local also donated £500 to support families in Harefield through the festive period .
The school has started distributing the hampers to those in need and families are said to be `` very happy '' to receive the gifts .
Ms Cooper said : `` We know this will make a big difference and ease some of the stresses that come with Christmas @ @

Staff at Harefield Primary School in Bitterne have recently started distributing the hampers - currently enough to support 48 families.
Year one teacher Zoe Cooper , who has worked at the school for 13 years, has thanked staff, parents and local business for their community spirit.
The inspiration came as normal fundraising events at the school were cancelled due to COVID restrictions.
Ms Cooper said: "This year we had the idea that instead of raising money in what would have been fundraising events like fayres and performances, we would instead collect donations of food or create hampers for families in need during winter.
Staff said they have been "overwhelmed" by the community spirit shown by staff, families at the school and local busineses who have donated to the hampers.
Ms Cooper said: "It doesn't matter what your situation is, COVID has affected everyone."
"We sent a letter out to parents and we said you don't have to meet certain criteria, if you feel like your family could benefit from a gift of a hamper, please let us know."
Parents also nominated other families to receive a hamper.
"If you can say one thing about Harefield it's that people support one another", added Ms Cooper.
On receiving a hamper, parent Lorna Thomas said: "Thank you for the kindness and generosity of the community."
The school has received donations from local businesses including the nearby One Stop Shop, which donated £200 worth of food and Smyths toy store which donated vouchers.
Harefield Fish Bar on Somerset Avenue provided meal vouchers and there was a donation of chocolate brownies from Wonderberrys cake shop on Swanwick Lane.
Local community group The Big Local also donated £500 to support families in Harefield through the festive period.
The school has started distributing the hampers to those in need and families are said to be "very happy" to receive the gifts.
Ms Cooper said: "We know this will make a big difference and ease some of the stresses that come with Christmas."


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - Tell us you view of University Hospital Southampton

University Hospital Southampton ( UHS ) has a governance structure which comprises a trust board , made up of executive and non-executive directors , and a council of governors .
The governors are the link to the membership of the trust and to anyone in the communities in which they are elected .
Forkanul and I were both elected to serve the population of the city of Southampton and attend meetings where we hear about performance and future plans for the trust .
We ask questions and make comments about the information given to us , however , we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the city to tell us about their views and experiences .
During the period of the Covid - 19 pandemic we have not had as much contact with local people so are writing to the Daily Echo to remind people of our role and to suggest you contact us if you have any views or experiences at UHS that you think we should know about .
My primary interest is the care of people living with dementia while in the hospital but I am happy to raise any issue relating to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans for the future .
Forkanul would be interested to hear about your experiences in critical care and of any positive experiences that could be shared with NHS staff as your feedback means so much to them .
The email to contact us on is UHSgovernor @ uhs.nhs.uk .
If you are interested in getting more involved by becoming a member of the UHS Trust you can find out more on our website www.uhs.nhs.uk/AboutTheTrust/Trustmembers/Trustmembers.aspx or by contacting the membership team at UHSmember @ uhs.nhs.uk or on 023 8120 5957 .

The governors are the link to the membership of the trust and to anyone in the communities in which they are elected.
Forkanul and I were both elected to serve the population of the city of Southampton and attend meetings where we hear about performance and future plans for the trust.
We ask questions and make comments about the information given to us, however, we are also dependent on contact from people living in the city to tell us about their views and experiences.
During the period of the Covid - 19 pandemic we have not had as much contact with local people so are writing to the Daily Echo to remind people of our role and to suggest you contact us if you have any views or experiences at UHS that you think we should know about.
My primary interest is the care of people living with dementia while in the hospital but I am happy to raise any issue relating to the way hospital services are run or its plans for the future.
Forkanul would be interested to hear about your experiences in critical care and of any positive experiences that could be shared with NHS staff as your feedback means so much to them.
The email to contact us on is UHSgovernor@uhs.nhs.uk.
If you are interested in getting more involved by becoming a member of the UHS Trust you can find out more on our website www.uhs.nhs.uk/AboutTheTrust/Trustmembers/Trustmembers.aspx or by contacting the membership team at UHSmember@uhs.nhs.uk or on 023 8120 5957.
Katherine Barbour and Forkanul Quader
Elected Governors at UHS


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Warning to motorists after catalytic converter stolen by gang of men

POLICE have issued a warning to van owners following a spike in thefts .
Officers from Test Valley Police have reports a number of theft of tools from vans , or attempted thefts , in recent days .
The thefts have occurred across the Test Valley district .
Between December 2 and 3 , tools were stolen from a van parked on Sarson Close , Andover .
Tools were stolen from a van parked on Crescent Road , North Baddesley , overnight between December 7 and 8 .
A van was damaged after entry was attempted overnight between December 9 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Pembroke Close in Romsey .
A van was broken into on Alma Road in Romsey on December 10 , nothing was stolen .
nspector Chris Taylor said : “ These are hardworking trades people having their livelihood put at risk by criminals .
“ Our local neighbourhood teams are conducting late night operations to combat this , and there will targeted patrols in hot-spot areas .
“ As you know we can ’ t be everywhere all the time , so we want to remind you to make sure your vehicle is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information from the public that can help us combat these offences .
If you know anyone who is selling second-hand tools and equipment please let us know by phoning 101 , or reporting online via our website .
”

Officers from Test Valley Police have reports a number of theft of tools from vans, or attempted thefts, in recent days.
The thefts have occurred across the Test Valley district.
Between December 2 and 3, tools were stolen from a van parked on Sarson Close, Andover.
Tools were stolen from a van parked on Crescent Road, North Baddesley, overnight between December 7 and 8.
A van was damaged after entry was attempted overnight between December 9 and 10, the vehicle was parked on Pembroke Close in Romsey.
A van was broken into on Alma Road in Romsey on December 10, nothing was stolen.
nspector Chris Taylor said: “These are hardworking trades people having their livelihood put at risk by criminals.
“Our local neighbourhood teams are conducting late night operations to combat this, and there will targeted patrols in hot-spot areas.
“As you know we can’t be everywhere all the time, so we want to remind you to make sure your vehicle is secure.
“We also welcome any information from the public that can help us combat these offences. If you know anyone who is selling second-hand tools and equipment please let us know by phoning 101, or reporting online via our website.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - We want to bring hope and light this Christmas

We all know that this year ’ s Christmas celebrations will be different .
For many families , there will be no celebration , as they come to terms with spending Christmas without their loved ones , and perhaps grieving .
The coronavirus pandemic , which has devastated so many lives , has emphasised how fortunate we are to live in a country where we can access free medical care through the NHS , regardless of our background or financial status .
For many of our brothers and sisters in other parts of the Anglican Communion , access to medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic has pressurised under-staffed health services in our Companion Links Provinces .
In the Diocese of Winchester , this year ’ s Christmas Appeal is raising funds through the Archbishop of Canterbury ’ s Anglican Communion Together in Unity Appeal to support Covid-19 projects in Chile , Burundi , DR Congo , Myanmar , Rwanda and Uganda : our gifts will be designated to support the projects which these Companion Link Provinces have submitted .
By giving generously to our friends in the Anglican Communion , we can help to bring hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of God ’ s Son Jesus Christ , more than 2000 years ago , brought new hope and light to a broken world : the promise of a transformed world and eternal life with him .
This same promise is offered to each of us today .
Usually , Christmas brings with it the comfort and joy of family , friendship and celebration .
For Christians celebrating the true meaning of Christmas , comfort and joy are found in knowing the love of God , who came to us in the birth of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now in all our joys and sorrows , celebrations and disappointments .
It is my prayer that we all find comfort and joy this Christmas , perhaps in unexpected ways , and as we journey together into 2021 , may we be ‘ surprised by joy ’ .
Please donate to the appeal : https : //www.give.net/dioceseofwinchester

For many families, there will be no celebration, as they come to terms with spending Christmas without their loved ones, and perhaps grieving.
The coronavirus pandemic, which has devastated so many lives, has emphasised how fortunate we are to live in a country where we can access free medical care through the NHS, regardless of our background or financial status.
For many of our brothers and sisters in other parts of the Anglican Communion, access to medical care is not freely available, and the pandemic has pressurised under-staffed health services in our Companion Links Provinces.
In the Diocese of Winchester, this year’s Christmas Appeal is raising funds through the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Anglican Communion Together in Unity Appeal to support Covid-19 projects in Chile, Burundi, DR Congo, Myanmar, Rwanda and Uganda: our gifts will be designated to support the projects which these Companion Link Provinces have submitted.
By giving generously to our friends in the Anglican Communion, we can help to bring hope and light this Christmas.
The birth of God’s Son Jesus Christ, more than 2000 years ago, brought new hope and light to a broken world: the promise of a transformed world and eternal life with him. This same promise is offered to each of us today.
Usually, Christmas brings with it the comfort and joy of family, friendship and celebration. For Christians celebrating the true meaning of Christmas, comfort and joy are found in knowing the love of God, who came to us in the birth of Jesus, and who comes to us now in all our joys and sorrows, celebrations and disappointments. It is my prayer that we all find comfort and joy this Christmas, perhaps in unexpected ways, and as we journey together into 2021, may we be ‘surprised by joy’.
Please donate to the appeal: https://www.give.net/dioceseofwinchester
Right Reverend Dr Tim Dakin
Bishop of Winchester


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - Foreign aid has gone to many undeserving causes

REGARDING foreign aid and the proposed reduction to 0.5 % of GDP .
Foreign aid at 0.7 % equates to £15 billion per year .
An eyewatering £1,250 million every month .
Given our current problems , which we didn ’ t have when 0.7 % was introduced , I don ’ t think we can afford this .
Due to Covid , we don ’ t have spare cash , we have borrowed trillions .
Removing any percentage commitment to overseas aid does not mean the UK will stop donating .
We can then give aid where it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questionable “ worthy causes ” to support , just to make sure it gets spent .
The civil servants responsible must be overwhelmed by the amounts involved , how can it be properly controlled ?
Aid has gone to many undeserving causes ( letter George Birkett 30th Nov ) or fails to reach its destination .
We provided UK money to pay the wages of the Free Syrian Police , taken in cash over the Turkish border from Gaziantep .
One of the registered police stations didn ’ t exist , neither did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deliberate fraud and the money disappeared .
Foreign aid needs to be properly controlled , otherwise people like Robert Mugabe will continue to become millionaires .
Bribery and corruption is endemic in Africa and the Middle East ( personal business experience ) so aid is always subject to possible fraud .
Perhaps some of the £15 billion could be used to help UK pensioners , many of whom are also suffering social and economic hardship ?

Foreign aid at 0.7% equates to £15 billion per year. An eyewatering £1,250 million every month.
Given our current problems, which we didn’t have when 0.7% was introduced, I don’t think we can afford this.
Due to Covid, we don’t have spare cash, we have borrowed trillions.
Removing any percentage commitment to overseas aid does not mean the UK will stop donating.
We can then give aid where it is really needed, no scramble to find questionable “worthy causes” to support, just to make sure it gets spent.
The civil servants responsible must be overwhelmed by the amounts involved, how can it be properly controlled?
Aid has gone to many undeserving causes (letter George Birkett 30th Nov) or fails to reach its destination.
We provided UK money to pay the wages of the Free Syrian Police, taken in cash over the Turkish border from Gaziantep. One of the registered police stations didn’t exist, neither did the 57 recorded policemen.
This was deliberate fraud and the money disappeared.
Foreign aid needs to be properly controlled, otherwise people like Robert Mugabe will continue to become millionaires.
Bribery and corruption is endemic in Africa and the Middle East (personal business experience) so aid is always subject to possible fraud.
Perhaps some of the £15 billion could be used to help UK pensioners, many of whom are also suffering social and economic hardship?
Name and address supplied.


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - We do not want attached to sagging European economy

I SEE BY tonight ’ s paper that Richard Grant has raised his stubborn head over our not wanting to @ @ @ @ @ attached to a sagging economy in Europe .
What is it he doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ know the Lib manifesto as he translates it .
He must be aware that we @ @ @ @ @ the old song .
He has already put as wise to the SNP .
Really @ @ @ @ @ a solo sovereign nation , eventually it will come to pass .
But really Richard @ @ @ @ @ old piano .
Perhaps the Covid jab in his arm will bring down to our @ @

What is it he doesn’t understand?
We all now know the Lib manifesto as he translates it.
He must be aware that we are a little tired of the old song.
He has already put as wise to the SNP.
Really if they want to be a solo sovereign nation, eventually it will come to pass.
But really Richard, get down off the old piano.
Perhaps the Covid jab in his arm will bring down to our level.
Alan Blandford
Southampton


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - I don't think I will watch a football match again

I admit that I am not a fan of football and rarely watch a match on television .
However on @ @ @ @ @ match and as very disappointed .
Instead of the so called supporters being pleased to @ @ @ @ @ a match they gave no thought to the teams because not one of them bothered @ @ @ @ @ So where was their loyalty to the teams who were giving them entertainment ?
I @ @ @ @ @ be watching again .

However on Saturday I did watch one match and as very disappointed.
Instead of the so called supporters being pleased to be able to actually attend a match they gave no thought to the teams because not one of them bothered to wear a mask.
So where was their loyalty to the teams who were giving them entertainment?
I do not think I shall be watching again.
Maureen Youngman
Winchester


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - Most of Awbridge behind church scheme

I would like to tender my disappointment at the report on the above development .
It appears that the report @ @ @ @ @ village survey was 72 % of the village are in favour and are totally behind @ @ @ @ @ it to go forward to enhance the village .

As a subscriber, you are shown 80% less display advertising when reading our articles.
Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services.
These adverts enable local businesses to get in front of their target audience – the local community.
It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times.


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - It is vital families know where to get support

CHRISTMAS is usually a time when families and friends look forward to spending precious time together , exchanging gifts and enjoying a delicious meal .
However , many families may be worrying about how they can make it special this year .
Christmas can bring additional financial and emotional pressure , and managing children ’ s and family members ’ expectations can be difficult .
This year will be even more challenging for many families , who have lost employment and been unable to see family and friends for support .
That ’ s why I feel it is so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support .
Family Action is counting down through the festive season by sharing top tips and expert guidance to help families have a magical time this year as part of the charity ’ s Making Christmas Magic campaign .
There are suggestions on how to make Christmas special within the restrictions of the pandemic , money saving tips , advice on managing relationships , festive ideas and so much more .
Please visit www.family-action.org.uk/make-theirs-magic for Family Action ’ s free advice , hints and tips that will be updated throughout December .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support they can contact Family Action ’ s free advice line Familyline by phone : 0808 802 6666 , text : 07537 404 282 or email at familyline @ family-action.org.uk .
There is also a live web chat option .
To find out more please visit www.family-action.org.uk/familyline .

However, many families may be worrying about how they can make it special this year.
Christmas can bring additional financial and emotional pressure, and managing children’s and family members’ expectations can be difficult.
This year will be even more challenging for many families, who have lost employment and been unable to see family and friends for support.
That’s why I feel it is so important that families know where to get support.
Family Action is counting down through the festive season by sharing top tips and expert guidance to help families have a magical time this year as part of the charity’s Making Christmas Magic campaign.
There are suggestions on how to make Christmas special within the restrictions of the pandemic, money saving tips, advice on managing relationships, festive ideas and so much more.
Please visit www.family-action.org.uk/make-theirs-magic for Family Action’s free advice, hints and tips that will be updated throughout December.
If people need that extra little bit of support they can contact Family Action’s free advice line Familyline by phone: 0808 802 6666, text: 07537 404 282 or email at familyline@family-action.org.uk.
There is also a live web chat option.
To find out more please visit www.family-action.org.uk/familyline.
Sam Bailey
Singer and Former X-factor winner


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - The elderly and disabled find it difficult to collect their mail

I wonder whether it is possible whether Post Office Services based at Sarisbury can change their policy of returning mail @ @ @ @ @ their depot which they have been unable to deliver on their rounds ?
For many @ @ @ @ @ transport of their own , no local families , and no direct bus service they @ @ @ @ @ fetch their mail .
I believe that it would be much easier for all if @ @ @ @ @ the local village post office , and leaving a card informing where their items can @ @ @


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - Rual communities are strongest in adversity

WITH THE looming prospect of Brexit and a new Agriculture Bill passing through parliament , 2020 was going to be a challenging year for rural communities across the South East ; then a global pandemic appeared and added to the wave of uncertainty .
Those who have diversified their rural businesses into the tourism and hospitality industries have been particularly hard hit , despite the effort many have put in to find ways to survive .
And while it is promising to hear of the progress of a vaccine , it could still be many months before we see any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is difficult to consider too many positives that have arisen during the pandemic , the crisis presented those who work in the food and farming sector a chance to increase understanding among the general public of their vital work .
In the early stages when the big supermarket chains struggled for many weeks to supply eggs , flour and yeast for example , it was the local independent farm shops , with short supply chains and high quality , locally sourced produce that filled a much-needed gap .
The increased number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appreciate the diversity of the land and how it is managed , to both feed the country but also to provide an attractive and healthy environment for many to enjoy responsibly .
2021 will be a pivotal year for farmers and landowners across our region .
New agricultural policy will be implemented , with cuts in direct payments to farmers and there will be pilots for the new Environmental Land Management scheme ( ELM ) .
CLA South East , which represents thousands of farmers , landowners and rural businesses in Kent , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Buckinghamshire , Oxfordshire and the Isle of Wight , is working with our members to look at how they can make the most of their natural capital .
This could include working with the private sector on carbon off-setting , planting new trees or biodiversity net gain opportunities .
Climate change has also been a key focus of the CLA agenda throughout 2020 and will continue to be so in 2021 , with the UK hosting COP26 , the major global climate summit , in mid-November .
The CLA team is supporting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from alternative farming methods and water management to energy efficiency of rural housing and renewable energy networks .
2020 has been a year like no other but rural communities and the businesses that operate within them are extremely resilient , agile and open to change .
They are often at their strongest when faced with adversity .
Let ’ s hope 2021 gives them more to cheer .

Those who have diversified their rural businesses into the tourism and hospitality industries have been particularly hard hit, despite the effort many have put in to find ways to survive.
And while it is promising to hear of the progress of a vaccine, it could still be many months before we see any return to business as usual.
While it is difficult to consider too many positives that have arisen during the pandemic, the crisis presented those who work in the food and farming sector a chance to increase understanding among the general public of their vital work.
In the early stages when the big supermarket chains struggled for many weeks to supply eggs, flour and yeast for example, it was the local independent farm shops, with short supply chains and high quality, locally sourced produce that filled a much-needed gap.
The increased number of visitors to the countryside has helped people appreciate the diversity of the land and how it is managed, to both feed the country but also to provide an attractive and healthy environment for many to enjoy responsibly.
2021 will be a pivotal year for farmers and landowners across our region.
New agricultural policy will be implemented, with cuts in direct payments to farmers and there will be pilots for the new Environmental Land Management scheme (ELM).
CLA South East, which represents thousands of farmers, landowners and rural businesses in Kent, Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and the Isle of Wight, is working with our members to look at how they can make the most of their natural capital.
This could include working with the private sector on carbon off-setting, planting new trees or biodiversity net gain opportunities.
Climate change has also been a key focus of the CLA agenda throughout 2020 and will continue to be so in 2021, with the UK hosting COP26, the major global climate summit, in mid-November.
The CLA team is supporting rural businesses on a range of topics, from alternative farming methods and water management to energy efficiency of rural housing and renewable energy networks.
2020 has been a year like no other but rural communities and the businesses that operate within them are extremely resilient, agile and open to change. They are often at their strongest when faced with adversity.
Let’s hope 2021 gives them more to cheer.
Michael Valenzia,
CLA South East Regional Director


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--LETTER - The Liberal Democrats are a laughing stock

The Liberal Democrat ’ s are a laughing stock rather than an alternative .
Remember two years of Jo Swinson @ @ @ @ @ the biggest democratic mandate in peacetime that is Brexit ?


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Teenager repeatedly stabbed in Southampton street attack

A TEENAGER has been rushed to hospital after being repeatedly stabbed during a street attack in Southampton .
The incident @ @ @ @ @ in Cowdray Close , Southampton .
An 18-year-old was approached by two other men who @ @ @ @ @ , arm , and leg , and he was taken to Southampton General Hospital where @ @ @ @ @ serious but not life-threatening injuries .
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said : `` Enquiries into @ @ @ @ @ incident are ongoing and officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed @ @ @ @ @ in the area at the time ?
Did you see anything ?
Perhaps you were @ @ @ @ @ have dashcam footage ?
`` Anyone who has any information , please get in touch @ @ @ @ @ reference 44200482884 .

The incident happened shortly before 11.30am yesterday in Cowdray Close, Southampton.
An 18-year-old was approached by two other men who stabbed him in the chest, arm, and leg, and he was taken to Southampton General Hospital where he is being treated for serious but not life-threatening injuries.
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: "Enquiries into the exact circumstances of the incident are ongoing and officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed anything.
"Were you in the area at the time? Did you see anything? Perhaps you were driving in the area and have dashcam footage?
"Anyone who has any information, please get in touch by calling 101 and quoting reference 44200482884.
"Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Alleged bird flu outbreak in Fareham after dead swans found

A BIRD Flu outbreak has allegedly been found in a population of swans after several were discovered dead .
Up to ten dead swans are said to have been discovered by residents at Fareham creek .
Local councillor for Fareham East , Councillor Tom Davies said he was notified of the deaths two weeks ago , and went to the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( DEFRA ) to report the issue .
The councillor claims that representatives of the agency have visited the area to take swabs from three of the dead birds , and have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu was present .
Councillor Davies said : `` This is obviously shocking news for our town but I think it 's important to note this is a strain with a very low threat to human life .
`` There are now concerns for the other swans present in the creek .
`` There are over 80 swans in the area and we 're waiting to hear from DEFRA what might have to be done .
`` I 'd urge our residents not to go to the area to see what 's going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On the government website , it claims : `` Avian influenza ( bird flu ) mainly affects birds .
It can also affect humans and other mammals . ''
The Echo has approached DEFRA for comment on the alleged outbreak .

Up to ten dead swans are said to have been discovered by residents at Fareham creek.
Local councillor for Fareham East, Councillor Tom Davies said he was notified of the deaths two weeks ago, and went to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to report the issue.
The councillor claims that representatives of the agency have visited the area to take swabs from three of the dead birds, and have since confirmed to him that Avian bird flu was present.
Councillor Davies said: "This is obviously shocking news for our town but I think it's important to note this is a strain with a very low threat to human life.
"There are now concerns for the other swans present in the creek.
"There are over 80 swans in the area and we're waiting to hear from DEFRA what might have to be done.
"I'd urge our residents not to go to the area to see what's going on to reduce any risks."
On the government website, it claims: "Avian influenza (bird flu) mainly affects birds. It can also affect humans and other mammals."
The Echo has approached DEFRA for comment on the alleged outbreak.


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Moss Bros wins landlords' backing for rent cuts

LANDLORDS have given the green light to formal menswear retailer Moss Bros ’ major restructuring plans .
The high street chain revealed plans last month for a company voluntary arrangement ( CVA ) in a bid to secure rent reductions .
Moss Bros said on Tuesday that more than 80 per cent of its creditors voted in favour of the deal , surpassing the 75 per cent threshold required to pass the move.Brian Brick , chief executive of Moss Bros , said the approval of the CVA would allow the company to “ reset ” its cost base and “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial footing ” .
The retailer , which was affected by closures , wedding cancellations and decreased demand for office clothing , operates 128 retail stores , including branches at Southampton 's Marlands Shopping Centre and at Whiteley Shopping Centre .
It employs around 800 staff .
It was acquired by Crew Clothing owner Brigadier for £22.6million in June , after the Takeover Panel stopped the buyer from pulling out of an agreement as the coronavirus pandemic worsened .
Mr Brick said : “ We are incredibly grateful to our landlords and suppliers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proud of our employees for the way they have dealt with all that 2020 has thrown at them .
“ We also recognise the backing of our new shareholders throughout the challenges of the takeover , pandemic and CVA process .
“ We look forward to continuing to evolve our brand and ranges to serve all our customers , old and new , just as we have for so many years.
” Will Wright , head of regional restructuring at KPMG and joint supervisor of the CVA , said : “ The passing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a solid footing upon which it can continue to navigate through this period of extreme uncertainty .
”

The high street chain revealed plans last month for a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) in a bid to secure rent reductions.
Moss Bros said on Tuesday that more than 80 per cent of its creditors voted in favour of the deal, surpassing the 75 per cent threshold required to pass the move.Brian Brick, chief executive of Moss Bros, said the approval of the CVA would allow the company to “reset” its cost base and “emerge from the pandemic on a sure financial footing”.
The retailer, which was affected by closures, wedding cancellations and decreased demand for office clothing, operates 128 retail stores, including branches at Southampton's Marlands Shopping Centre and at Whiteley Shopping Centre. It employs around 800 staff.
It was acquired by Crew Clothing owner Brigadier for £22.6million in June, after the Takeover Panel stopped the buyer from pulling out of an agreement as the coronavirus pandemic worsened.
Mr Brick said: “We are incredibly grateful to our landlords and suppliers for their support in this process and proud of our employees for the way they have dealt with all that 2020 has thrown at them.
“We also recognise the backing of our new shareholders throughout the challenges of the takeover, pandemic and CVA process.
“We look forward to continuing to evolve our brand and ranges to serve all our customers, old and new, just as we have for so many years.”
Will Wright, head of regional restructuring at KPMG and joint supervisor of the CVA, said: “The passing of the CVA provides Moss Bros with a solid footing upon which it can continue to navigate through this period of extreme uncertainty.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Bus comes off road on Portsdown Hill leaving two people injured

A BUS which came off a road and hit a tree has left two people injured after an incident in Fareham yesterday .
The incident happened at the James Callaghan Drive junction on Portsdown Hill Road shortly after 1pm .
The bus was carrying five people on board at the time of the accident .
Two people sustained minor injuries , one of which was an ankle injury .
No other vehicles were involved .
The bus was operating a park and ride service for staff working at Queen Alexandra ( QA ) hospital in Portsmouth .
The road was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was cleared by 3.40pm .
A spokesperson for South Central Ambulance service said : `` We received a 999 call at 13.19 with the caller reporting that a single decker bus had come off the road and hit a tree on James Callaghan Drive , Portsmouth .
`` We sent an ambulance , a paramedic team leader in a rapid response vehicle and our Hazardous Area Response Team ( HART ) to the incident .
`` The bus had five people on board at the time of the accident and was in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service to stabilise it initially .
Two people on board had sustained minor injuries – one was treated at the scene by our staff but the second required further treatment at the QA Hospital .
The three other people on board were uninjured . ''
First Bus , the company which operates the service , said that they are now investigating the incident .
A spokesperson said : `` The company immediately dispatched a team to assist emergency services with their investigations , support the driver who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recovery of the vehicle .
The company is conducting its own investigation to establish the circumstances that led to the incident .
”

The incident happened at the James Callaghan Drive junction on Portsdown Hill Road shortly after 1pm.
The bus was carrying five people on board at the time of the accident.
Two people sustained minor injuries, one of which was an ankle injury.
No other vehicles were involved.
The bus was operating a park and ride service for staff working at Queen Alexandra (QA) hospital in Portsmouth.
The road was closed while the vehicle was recovered and was cleared by 3.40pm.
A spokesperson for South Central Ambulance service said: "We received a 999 call at 13.19 with the caller reporting that a single decker bus had come off the road and hit a tree on James Callaghan Drive, Portsmouth.
"We sent an ambulance, a paramedic team leader in a rapid response vehicle and our Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) to the incident.
"The bus had five people on board at the time of the accident and was in an unstable position so our HART team worked with Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service to stabilise it initially. Two people on board had sustained minor injuries – one was treated at the scene by our staff but the second required further treatment at the QA Hospital. The three other people on board were uninjured."
First Bus, the company which operates the service, said that they are now investigating the incident.
A spokesperson said: "The company immediately dispatched a team to assist emergency services with their investigations, support the driver who was badly shaken following the incident and expedite recovery of the vehicle. The company is conducting its own investigation to establish the circumstances that led to the incident.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Man arrested after assault incident in Gosport

A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm after an incident in Gosport .
Gosport @ @ @ @ @ woman from Fareham was assaulted at the Ham Lane/Elson Road Junction in Gosport , as @ @ @ @ @ happened at around 7.10am on Monday December 14 .
She sustained injuries during the assault @ @ @ @ @ serious or life-threatening .
As a result , a 21-year-old man , of no fixed @ @ @ @ @ morning .
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 with reference 44200481032 .

Gosport police says that an 18-year-old woman from Fareham was assaulted at the Ham Lane/Elson Road Junction in Gosport, as previously reported.
The incident happened at around 7.10am on Monday December 14.
She sustained injuries during the assault but they are not considered serious or life-threatening.
As a result, a 21-year-old man, of no fixed abode, was arrested this morning.
He remains in custody.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 with reference 44200481032.


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--New cabinet member appointed in Hampshire

A NEW cabinet member has been appointed in Hampshire .
Cllr Edward Heron - currently executive member for countryside and rural affairs at Hamsphire County Council - will expand his portfolio to include recreation and heritage .
It comes as Cllr Seán Woodward resigned from his post yestreday - `` citing personal reasons and pressure of work '' .
As reported , the news comes as last week a panel found that Cllr Woodward breached the county councillors 's code of conduct when dealing with the allocation of a £15,000 grant .
Now the county council has confirmed that Cllr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement Cllr Keith Mans , county council leader , said : `` I am delighted that Edward will be taking on a greater role in the county council ’ s cabinet adding recreation and heritage to his role of countryside and rural affairs .
He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this portfolio . ''
Cllr Heron was first elected to Hampshire County Council in 2009 , representing the now Lyndhurst & Fordingbridge division .
He was appointed to the county council ’ s cabinet as executive member for countryside and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also a member of New Forest District Council and the New Forest National Park Authority .
Cllr Heron said : “ I am delighted to be taking on this expanded role on the county council ’ s cabinet and look forward to continuing the excellent work for Hampshire residents , undertaken across the recreation , heritage , countryside and rural affairs portfolio .
”

Cllr Edward Heron - currently executive member for countryside and rural affairs at Hamsphire County Council - will expand his portfolio to include recreation and heritage.
It comes as Cllr Seán Woodward resigned from his post yestreday - "citing personal reasons and pressure of work".
As reported, the news comes as last week a panel found that Cllr Woodward breached the county councillors's code of conduct when dealing with the allocation of a £15,000 grant.
Now the county council has confirmed that Cllr Heron will replace him.
In a statement Cllr Keith Mans, county council leader, said: "I am delighted that Edward will be taking on a greater role in the county council’s cabinet adding recreation and heritage to his role of countryside and rural affairs. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this portfolio."
Cllr Heron was first elected to Hampshire County Council in 2009, representing the now Lyndhurst & Fordingbridge division.
He was appointed to the county council’s cabinet as executive member for countryside and rural affairs in 2018.
He is also a member of New Forest District Council and the New Forest National Park Authority.
Cllr Heron said: “I am delighted to be taking on this expanded role on the county council’s cabinet and look forward to continuing the excellent work for Hampshire residents, undertaken across the recreation, heritage, countryside and rural affairs portfolio.”


thedailyecho--2020-12-15--Covid screening service launched at Eastleigh Football Club

A NEW Covid-19 screening service centre has launched at a football club .
Eastleigh Football Club and ExpressTest have announced the opening of the centre outside the Silverlake Stadium next so Southampton airport .
The service offers a `` fast and accurate '' PCR swab test , and is now available to book for staff and members of the public with tests carried out by specially trained Screening Practitioners .
Eastleigh Football Club has been offered a subsidised rate to use the screening service but it will be available for the general public for £99 .
Kenny Amor , Chairman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ re delighted to be able to partner with ExpressTest and offer a Covid-19 screening service to our local community .
`` We know first hand what a difficult time it ’ s been for the people of Eastleigh and surrounding area , and so to be able to provide peace of mind with a test with Christmas around the corner is fantastic . ''
Test results will be emailed or texted to customers typically the next day and for people receiving a test in order to travel abroad , it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prior to their departure time .
Those who screen negative will be emailed a Fit to Fly certificate that is authorised by a doctor , along with their test result .
Nick Markham , Founder of ExpressTest said : “ It ’ s fantastic to have teamed up with Eastleigh Football Club to deliver a Covid screening service to the general public .
`` Our mission at ExpressTest is to provide reassurance to people that they are Covid-free , whether in preparation for travelling or visiting friends and family at Christmas . ''

Eastleigh Football Club and ExpressTest have announced the opening of the centre outside the Silverlake Stadium next so Southampton airport.
The service offers a "fast and accurate" PCR swab test, and is now available to book for staff and members of the public with tests carried out by specially trained Screening Practitioners.
Eastleigh Football Club has been offered a subsidised rate to use the screening service but it will be available for the general public for £99.
Kenny Amor, Chairman at Eastleigh Football Club said: "We’re delighted to be able to partner with ExpressTest and offer a Covid-19 screening service to our local community.
"We know first hand what a difficult time it’s been for the people of Eastleigh and surrounding area, and so to be able to provide peace of mind with a test with Christmas around the corner is fantastic."
Test results will be emailed or texted to customers typically the next day and for people receiving a test in order to travel abroad, it is advised to schedule a test 48-96 hours prior to their departure time.
Those who screen negative will be emailed a Fit to Fly certificate that is authorised by a doctor, along with their test result.
Nick Markham, Founder of ExpressTest said: “It’s fantastic to have teamed up with Eastleigh Football Club to deliver a Covid screening service to the general public.
"Our mission at ExpressTest is to provide reassurance to people that they are Covid-free, whether in preparation for travelling or visiting friends and family at Christmas."


thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Body of woman found following fire in Millbrook flat

THE body of a woman has been found following a fire inside a Southampton flat .
Emergency services were called to a flat in Chiltern Green in Millbrook during the early hours of this morning .
Police have confirmed that they were called at 2.53am to a report of a fire in a ground-floor flat .
The body of a 53-year-old woman was found inside the address .
Her death is not being treated as suspicious and her next of kin have been informed .
Flowers have since been left at the scene .
A spokesperson from the force said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fire and Rescue Service at 2.53am this morning ( Wednesday , 16 December ) to a report of a fire at an address in Chiltern Green , Southampton .
`` The body of a 53-year-old woman was found inside the address .
`` Her death is not being treated as suspicious and her next of kin have been informed .
`` A file will be prepared for the Coroner . ''
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to the fire at 2.50am .
Crews from St Mary ’ s , Redbridge , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the scene and were met by Hampshire Police and South Central Ambulance Service ( SCAS ) .
An ambulance crew and a Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the scene at 2.51am .
One neighbour , who wished to remain unnamed , told the Daily Echo a fire broke out during the early hours of this morning and `` lots of police officers '' were in the area this morning .
A spokesperson from SCAS said : `` We were called at 02:51 to Chiltern Green to reports of a property fire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our Hazardous Area Response Team and an ambulance crew . ''

Emergency services were called to a flat in Chiltern Green in Millbrook during the early hours of this morning.
Police have confirmed that they were called at 2.53am to a report of a fire in a ground-floor flat.
The body of a 53-year-old woman was found inside the address.
Her death is not being treated as suspicious and her next of kin have been informed.
Flowers have since been left at the scene.
A spokesperson from the force said: "We were called by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service at 2.53am this morning (Wednesday, 16 December) to a report of a fire at an address in Chiltern Green, Southampton.
"The body of a 53-year-old woman was found inside the address.
"Her death is not being treated as suspicious and her next of kin have been informed.
"A file will be prepared for the Coroner."
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to the fire at 2.50am.
Crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge, Totton and Eastleigh fire stations arrived at the scene and were met by Hampshire Police and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS).
An ambulance crew and a Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the scene at 2.51am.
One neighbour, who wished to remain unnamed, told the Daily Echo a fire broke out during the early hours of this morning and "lots of police officers" were in the area this morning.
A spokesperson from SCAS said: "We were called at 02:51 to Chiltern Green to reports of a property fire.
"We sent to the scene our Hazardous Area Response Team and an ambulance crew."


thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Anger over Covid rule breakers after Southampton house party

AN MP and councillor have spoken of their disappointment as businesses and members of the public were caught flouting Covid-19 rules .
On Saturday , police were called to a flat on White Star Place in Southampton to a party of more than 70 people .
When officers arrived they dispersed the group and they are currently trying to find out who organised the illegal gathering .
MP for Southampton , Itchen , Royston Smith , branded the gathering an ‘ incredibly selfish act ’ .
He said : “ I know it ’ s difficult to follow the rules @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will get it wrong from time to time but house parties are deliberate .
“ If revellers spread the virus and in turn infect vulnerable people they could be indirectly responsible for serious illness or worse .
Do they want that on their conscience ?
” With Southampton currently under tier 2 restrictions , gatherings inside of people from separate households is prohibited .
Southampton City Councillor , Sarah Bogle , said : “ It ’ s very disappointing that a small minority think the rules do not apply to them during this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duty to act responsibly not just for our own safety but also for the wider community and society in which we live.
” Elsewhere , a pub landlord is set to be slapped with a £1,000 fine for hosting a birthday party at the Elephant and Castle in Totton on Saturday .
Licensing officers are said to have spotted people drinking alcohol , playing pool , standing in groups and playing table football .
Police said customers were also consuming alcohol at tables where they had not ordered food , while “ minimal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kitchen .
CCTV was checked and customers were seen walking into the pub , standing at the bar , walking around with face masks , and drinking numerous beverages without meals .
Officers spoke to the landlord before reporting him for summons and handing him a fixed penalty notice for a “ blatant breach ” of regulations .
PS Robert Cohen from the force ’ s licensing team said : “ We are working hard to ensure that everyone is observing the restrictions in place and is safe during the pandemic .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pub felt that it was appropriate to put everyone at risk and operate as if the pandemic is not taking place .
“ We hope this sends a message to other businesses that breaching the regulations will be dealt with robustly.
” The pub landlord was approached for comment but had not responded when the Echo went to press .

On Saturday, police were called to a flat on White Star Place in Southampton to a party of more than 70 people.
When officers arrived they dispersed the group and they are currently trying to find out who organised the illegal gathering.
MP for Southampton, Itchen, Royston Smith, branded the gathering an ‘incredibly selfish act’.
He said: “I know it’s difficult to follow the rules all the time and most of us will get it wrong from time to time but house parties are deliberate.
“If revellers spread the virus and in turn infect vulnerable people they could be indirectly responsible for serious illness or worse. Do they want that on their conscience?”
With Southampton currently under tier 2 restrictions, gatherings inside of people from separate households is prohibited.
Southampton City Councillor, Sarah Bogle, said: “It’s very disappointing that a small minority think the rules do not apply to them during this pandemic.
“We all have a duty to act responsibly not just for our own safety but also for the wider community and society in which we live.”
Elsewhere, a pub landlord is set to be slapped with a £1,000 fine for hosting a birthday party at the Elephant and Castle in Totton on Saturday.
Licensing officers are said to have spotted people drinking alcohol, playing pool, standing in groups and playing table football.
Police said customers were also consuming alcohol at tables where they had not ordered food, while “minimal” food was being prepared in the kitchen.
CCTV was checked and customers were seen walking into the pub, standing at the bar, walking around with face masks, and drinking numerous beverages without meals.
Officers spoke to the landlord before reporting him for summons and handing him a fixed penalty notice for a “blatant breach” of regulations.
PS Robert Cohen from the force’s licensing team said: “We are working hard to ensure that everyone is observing the restrictions in place and is safe during the pandemic.
“It is very disappointing therefore that this pub felt that it was appropriate to put everyone at risk and operate as if the pandemic is not taking place.
“We hope this sends a message to other businesses that breaching the regulations will be dealt with robustly.”
The pub landlord was approached for comment but had not responded when the Echo went to press.


thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Covid warning ahead of Christmas in Hampshire

A HAMPSHIRE leader has warned residents ahead of a relaxation of the Covid-19 restrictions over Christmas .
Cllr Keith Mans , leader of Hampshire County Council , said residents need to be careful and think about the impact of meeting people indoors .
The news comes as Covid restrictions are going to be eased next week to allow three households to meet indoors between December 23 and 27 .
But Cllr Mans said that does not mean people have to change what they are doing .
Talking during the meeting of the Local Outbreak Engagement Board yesterday he said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happen if you really want it to happen .
That does not mean you have to change what you are doing and you need to bear in mind that mixing different generations is an important issue that you need to be careful of particularly indoors . ''
Cllr Mans also asked residents to avoid meetings if possible .
He added : `` I think the intergenerational meetings avoid those if you possibly can because that to me is where things get out of hand , where elderly people are much at risk .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have warned that the decision to ease restrictions across the country over Christmas `` will cost many lives '' .
From today London and several other areas in the South East will enter Tier 3 following a sharp increase in Covid cases .
The relaxation of the rules planned for next week is now set to be reviewed .
The news comes as the Tier system is also set to be reviewed today .
As reported , last month Simon Bryant , the director of public health at Hampshire County Council , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` for longer '' in order to manage the loosening of the restrictions at Christmas .
At the meeting held yesterday Mr Bryant said the current infection rates across the country are `` concerning '' .
He told members that Hampshire has an infection rate of 89.7x100,000 .
Meanwhile , Southampton infection rate stands at 79.2x100,000 while the infection rate for England is 173x100,000 .
Last week the director of public health in Southampton also said the city might remain in Tier 2 .
Residents both in Hampshire and Southampton have been repeatedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Cllr Keith Mans, leader of Hampshire County Council, said residents need to be careful and think about the impact of meeting people indoors.
The news comes as Covid restrictions are going to be eased next week to allow three households to meet indoors between December 23 and 27.
But Cllr Mans said that does not mean people have to change what they are doing.
Talking during the meeting of the Local Outbreak Engagement Board yesterday he said: "In my view that should only happen if you really want it to happen. That does not mean you have to change what you are doing and you need to bear in mind that mixing different generations is an important issue that you need to be careful of particularly indoors."
Cllr Mans also asked residents to avoid meetings if possible.
He added: "I think the intergenerational meetings avoid those if you possibly can because that to me is where things get out of hand, where elderly people are much at risk."
The news comes as some experts have warned that the decision to ease restrictions across the country over Christmas "will cost many lives".
From today London and several other areas in the South East will enter Tier 3 following a sharp increase in Covid cases.
The relaxation of the rules planned for next week is now set to be reviewed.
The news comes as the Tier system is also set to be reviewed today.
As reported, last month Simon Bryant, the director of public health at Hampshire County Council, said the county might remain in Tier 2 "for longer" in order to manage the loosening of the restrictions at Christmas.
At the meeting held yesterday Mr Bryant said the current infection rates across the country are "concerning".
He told members that Hampshire has an infection rate of 89.7x100,000. Meanwhile, Southampton infection rate stands at 79.2x100,000 while the infection rate for England is 173x100,000.
Last week the director of public health in Southampton also said the city might remain in Tier 2. Residents both in Hampshire and Southampton have been repeatedly urged to continue to follow the guidelines.


thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Southampton set to find out if coronavirus tier will change

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thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Fred Olsen Cruise Lines announces 'back in service' date

A CRUISE company has announced its 'back in service ' date for 2021 .
Fred .
Olsen Cruise Lines has today announced revised dates for its four-strong ocean fleet , as the company prepares for cruising in the new year .
It comes after the company was forced to cancel a number of cruises due to the coronavirus pandemic back in early April .
The 2021 timetable has revealed that new ship Borealis will now be the first of the fleet to sail , and will embark on her maiden cruise with Fred .
Olsen on April 23 , 2021 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her cruise as part of a six-night ‘ Scottish Lochs and Isles ’ cruise .
Bolette will follow on May 29 and Balmoral on June 9 .
However , due to having an extensive fly-cruise programme Braemar will remain in lay-up until 2022 .
All guests who are booked onto a cancelled sailing will be notified of the changes , and will be provided with a number of options including a `` no-quibble '' refund .
Peter Deer , managing director at Fred .
Olsen Cruise Lines , said : “ While it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is longer than we originally anticipated , we have said right from the start that we will not resume sailing until we are confident that it is safe for us to do so , and we stand by that .
“ The safety of our guests and crew remains our utmost priority , and it is important that we fully understand the advances in the roll-out of the vaccine , testing capabilities and other scientific developments and what they mean for how we can operate .
“ This is not a process to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that by deferring our return to sailing just a while longer , with our two new ships among the fleet , we can come back better and stronger than ever without compromising on guest experience.
``

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has today announced revised dates for its four-strong ocean fleet, as the company prepares for cruising in the new year.
It comes after the company was forced to cancel a number of cruises due to the coronavirus pandemic back in early April.
The 2021 timetable has revealed that new ship Borealis will now be the first of the fleet to sail, and will embark on her maiden cruise with Fred. Olsen on April 23, 2021.
The new ship will embark on her cruise as part of a six-night ‘Scottish Lochs and Isles’ cruise.
Bolette will follow on May 29 and Balmoral on June 9.
However, due to having an extensive fly-cruise programme Braemar will remain in lay-up until 2022.
All guests who are booked onto a cancelled sailing will be notified of the changes, and will be provided with a number of options including a "no-quibble" refund.
Peter Deer, managing director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “While it is regrettable that our pause in operations is longer than we originally anticipated, we have said right from the start that we will not resume sailing until we are confident that it is safe for us to do so, and we stand by that.
“The safety of our guests and crew remains our utmost priority, and it is important that we fully understand the advances in the roll-out of the vaccine, testing capabilities and other scientific developments and what they mean for how we can operate.
“This is not a process to be rushed, and we are confident that by deferring our return to sailing just a while longer, with our two new ships among the fleet, we can come back better and stronger than ever without compromising on guest experience. "


thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Fire in flats in Millbrook, Southampton

Fire in flats in Millbrook, Southampton

EMERGENCY services rushed to a Southampton street this morning after a flat went up in flames .
Hampshire Fire and @ @ @ @ @ a fire involving a ground-floor flat on Chiltern Green in Millbrook at 2.50am .
Crews @ @ @ @ @ , Redbridge , Totton and Eastleigh fire stations arrived at the scene and were met @ @ @ @ @ Central Ambulance Service ( SCAS ) .
An ambulance crew and a Hazardous Area Response @ @ @ @ @ scene at 2.51am .
One neighbour , who wished to remain unnamed , told the @ @ @ @ @ out during the early hours of this morning and `` lots of police officers '' @ @ @ @ @ morning .
A spokesperson from SCAS said : `` We were called at 02:51 to @ @ @ @ @ a property fire .
`` We sent to the scene our Hazardous Area Response Team @ @ @ @ @ '' Hampshire Police have been contacted for a comment .

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to a fire involving a ground-floor flat on Chiltern Green in Millbrook at 2.50am.
Crews from St Mary’s, Redbridge, Totton and Eastleigh fire stations arrived at the scene and were met by Hampshire Police and South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS).
An ambulance crew and a Hazardous Area Response Team were sent to the scene at 2.51am.
One neighbour, who wished to remain unnamed, told the Daily Echo a fire broke out during the early hours of this morning and "lots of police officers" were in the area this morning.
A spokesperson from SCAS said: "We were called at 02:51 to Chiltern Green to reports of a property fire.
"We sent to the scene our Hazardous Area Response Team and an ambulance crew."
Hampshire Police have been contacted for a comment.
More to follow...


thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Southampton man had ‘copies of the Anarchist Cookbook'

A SOUTHAMPTON man accused of manufacturing guns and explosives had an instruction manual at his home , a court heard .
When police searched Pascal Knorr-Gulde ’ s home in Bond Road they found homemade gun parts , chemicals for making explosives and a workshop , a jury was told .
The 47-year-old is facing charges of possessing a prohibited weapon , attempting to manufacture a firearm , attempting to manufacture explosives and two counts of possessing explosives .
Defended , by Berenice Mulvanny he denies the charges against him and is on trial at Southampton Crown Court .
Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Southampton as part of a firearms and drugs sting on June 20 , 2020 Opening the case on Tuesday , prosecution barrister Robin Shellard told the jury how on June 19 officers found “ rocket candy ” and “ gun cotton ” – both highly flammable substances – at Knorr-Gulde ’ s home .
He told how they also discovered ten litres of hydrogen peroxide and eight bottles of nail polish , which he argued can be used to make explosives .
The jury heard how Knorr-Gulde had multiple instruction manuals on how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ copies of the Anarchist Cookbook , a controversial guide for making explosives .
He even had a milling machine for working metal which it is argued was used for manufacturing guns .
The members of the jury were also shown pictures of the ” internal parts of a machine gun ” .
These included metal tubes used for “ a revolver ” and a “ magazine for a MAC-10 machine gun ” which could be used to hold ammunition .
along with a guide to “ build your own improvised purpose machine gun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Daily Echo , a bomb disposal unit was called to attend an incident in Bond Road on June 19 .
Police were on the scene for much of the next day and two neighbouring houses were evacuated as a precaution .
The trial , which is expected to last a week , continues .

When police searched Pascal Knorr-Gulde’s home in Bond Road they found homemade gun parts, chemicals for making explosives and a workshop, a jury was told.
The 48-year-old is facing charges of possessing a prohibited weapon, attempting to manufacture a firearm, attempting to manufacture explosives and two counts of possessing explosives.
Defended, by Berenice Mulvanny he denies the charges against him and is on trial at Southampton Crown Court.
Police raid a house in Bond Road, Southampton as part of a firearms and drugs sting on June 20, 2020
Opening the case on Tuesday, prosecution barrister Robin Shellard told the jury how on June 19 officers found “rocket candy” and “gun cotton” – both highly flammable substances – at Knorr-Gulde’s home.
He told how they also discovered ten litres of hydrogen peroxide and eight bottles of nail polish, which he argued can be used to make explosives.
The jury heard how Knorr-Gulde had multiple instruction manuals on how to make firearms as well as various copies of the Anarchist Cookbook, a controversial guide for making explosives.
He even had a milling machine for working metal which it is argued was used for manufacturing guns.
Bomb disposal unit in Bond Road, Southampton
The members of the jury were also shown pictures of the” internal parts of a machine gun”.
These included metal tubes used for “a revolver” and a “magazine for a MAC-10 machine gun” which could be used to hold ammunition. along with a guide to “build your own improvised purpose machine gun”.
As previously reported by the Daily Echo, a bomb disposal unit was called to attend an incident in Bond Road on June 19.
Police were on the scene for much of the next day and two neighbouring houses were evacuated as a precaution.
The trial, which is expected to last a week, continues.


thedailyecho--2020-12-16--Clinical trials of Covid-19 vaccine begin in Southampton

Clinical trials of the UK ’ s fifth Covid-19 vaccine are set to begin in Southampton today .
Speciality vaccine company , Valneva , have developed the vaccine in Livingston , and will initially test it on 150 UK volunteers at testing sites in Birmingham , Bristol , Newcastle and Southampton .
The early phase 1 and 2 trials will show whether the vaccine produces a safe and effective immune response against Covid-19 .
• These are the GP surgeries set to roll out Covid-19 vaccine Should they prove successful , larger clinical trials will be planned for April 2021 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doses of the vaccine .
The UK government has already pre-ordered Valneva ’ s vaccine candidate and 60 million doses could be made available to the UK by the end of 2021 if it is proved to be safe .
Valneva ’ s vaccine is the fifth to enter clinical trials in the UK , alongside Oxford/AstraZeneca , Imperial College London , Novavax and Janssen .
Chief Executive Officer of Valneva Thomas Lingelbach said : “ Our teams have been working extremely hard to develop our differentiated vaccine candidate .
“ While conducting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already ramping-up our manufacturing capacities and commencing production at full-scale so that we can make the vaccine widely available across the world assuming the vaccine is safe and effective .
”

Speciality vaccine company, Valneva, have developed the vaccine in Livingston, and will initially test it on 150 UK volunteers at testing sites in Birmingham, Bristol, Newcastle and Southampton.
The early phase 1 and 2 trials will show whether the vaccine produces a safe and effective immune response against Covid-19.
Should they prove successful, larger clinical trials will be planned for April 2021 with over 4,000 UK volunteers testing two doses of the vaccine.
The UK government has already pre-ordered Valneva’s vaccine candidate and 60 million doses could be made available to the UK by the end of 2021 if it is proved to be safe.
Valneva’s vaccine is the fifth to enter clinical trials in the UK, alongside Oxford/AstraZeneca, Imperial College London, Novavax and Janssen.
Chief Executive Officer of Valneva Thomas Lingelbach said: “Our teams have been working extremely hard to develop our differentiated vaccine candidate.
“While conducting our first clinical trials, we are already ramping-up our manufacturing capacities and commencing production at full-scale so that we can make the vaccine widely available across the world assuming the vaccine is safe and effective.”