thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Moped rider fights for life after taxi crash in Southampton

A MAN has suffered potentially life threatening injuries after his moped collided with a taxi in Southampton During the early hours of this morning a man on a moped , who police are not yet able to identify , was riding a red Honda 125cc moped at the junction of Kathleen Road and Botany Road when it was in collision with a blue Toyota Loniq taxi just before 3am yesterday..
The man on the moped , who was not wearing a helmet , suffered life threatening injuries .
The driver of the taxi , a 32-year-old man from Southampton , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would like to appeal for information , both to the collision and also to identify the moped rider .
The man is described as a young adult and was riding a red Honda 125 moped with no number plate .
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said : `` We ’ ve included these details to assist in appealing for witnesses , and anyone who may know him .
`` We would also like to hear from anyone who may have seen this man riding a moped in the area prior to the incident @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , please call 101 and quote 44200333501 . ''

During the early hours of this morning a man on a moped, who police are not yet able to identify, was riding a red Honda 125cc moped at the junction of Kathleen Road and Botany Road when it was in collision with a blue Toyota Loniq taxi just before 3am yesterday..
The man on the moped, who was not wearing a helmet, suffered life threatening injuries.
The driver of the taxi, a 32-year-old man from Southampton, was unharmed.
Officers investigating the collision would like to appeal for information, both to the collision and also to identify the moped rider.
The man is described as a young adult and was riding a red Honda 125 moped with no number plate.
A spokesperson from Hampshire Police said: "We’ve included these details to assist in appealing for witnesses, and anyone who may know him.
"We would also like to hear from anyone who may have seen this man riding a moped in the area prior to the incident occurring.
"If you can help, please call 101 and quote 44200333501."


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Quarter of Southampton adults fail to take short walk every week

MORE than a quarter of adults in Southampton and Hampshire fail to take one short walk a week , new figures suggest .
Sport England ’ s annual Active Lives Survey asked 821 residents between November 2018 and November 2019 how often they take a 10 minute walk , for either leisure or travel .
The results show 26 % of them did so less than once a week – though it is an improvement on the year before , when 28 % gave the same answer .
Across Hampshire the survey asked 4,510 and showed 28 % of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – better than last year when 29 % gave the same answer .
Both the Southampton and Hampshire figures are lower than the average across England , of 29 % .
The figures show that people in England are walking less than a year before .
That underlines the challenge for the Government ’ s latest health campaign to “ tackle the problem of obesity across all ages ” .
The NHS recommends 150 minutes a week of moderate activity , which can include brisk walking , to treat obesity .
Separate statistics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 62 % ) of adults in England are overweight , with the organisation warning obesity is linked to severe symptoms and death from coronavirus .
Dr Alison Tedstone , chief nutritionist at PHE , said : “ Just ten minutes every day is a good start and can have health benefits but more is better and now more than ever avoiding public transport if possible and walking to work or to the shops makes even more sense .
“ Staying active is an important part of maintaining or reaching a healthy weight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the increased risk from Covid-19 , she added that living with excess weight raises the risk of a range of chronic diseases , including type 2 diabetes .
The figures show Southampton residents were even less likely to cycle than walk , with just 17 % getting out on their bikes at least once per week .
And 16 % said they did not either walk or cycle at least once every four weeks .
The Government ’ s new strategy to help people lose weight includes over £2bn in safe walking and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ junk food promotions and stricter advertising controls .
A spokesman said : “ We are determined to tackle the problem of obesity across all ages .
“ We recently launched a world leading strategy to help reduce obesity rates and help everyone live healthier lives.
” According to the Sport England survey , the average annual distance travelled on foot by people across England fell to 205 miles last year – down from 210 miles the year before .

Sport England’s annual Active Lives Survey asked 821 residents between November 2018 and November 2019 how often they take a 10 minute walk, for either leisure or travel.
The results show 26% of them did so less than once a week – though it is an improvement on the year before, when 28% gave the same answer.
Across Hampshire the survey asked 4,510 and showed 28% of them did so less than once a week – better than last year when 29% gave the same answer.
Both the Southampton and Hampshire figures are lower than the average across England, of 29%.
The figures show that people in England are walking less than a year before.
That underlines the challenge for the Government’s latest health campaign to “tackle the problem of obesity across all ages”.
The NHS recommends 150 minutes a week of moderate activity, which can include brisk walking, to treat obesity.
Separate statistics from Public Health England show almost two-thirds (62%) of adults in England are overweight, with the organisation warning obesity is linked to severe symptoms and death from coronavirus.
Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at PHE, said: “Just ten minutes every day is a good start and can have health benefits but more is better and now more than ever avoiding public transport if possible and walking to work or to the shops makes even more sense.
“Staying active is an important part of maintaining or reaching a healthy weight alongside a healthy diet.”
Along with the increased risk from Covid-19, she added that living with excess weight raises the risk of a range of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes.
The figures show Southampton residents were even less likely to cycle than walk, with just 17% getting out on their bikes at least once per week.
And 16% said they did not either walk or cycle at least once every four weeks.
The Government’s new strategy to help people lose weight includes over £2bn in safe walking and cycling routes, a ban on some junk food promotions and stricter advertising controls.
A spokesman said: “We are determined to tackle the problem of obesity across all ages.
“We recently launched a world leading strategy to help reduce obesity rates and help everyone live healthier lives.”
According to the Sport England survey, the average annual distance travelled on foot by people across England fell to 205 miles last year – down from 210 miles the year before.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Hampshire police investigating spate of vehicle thefts

POLICE have assured residents that they are investigating a spate of thefts from vehicles in a Hampshire .
Officers have @ @ @ @ @ after New Milton residents took to social media to complain that police were failing to @ @ @ @ @ posted : `` Really frustrating .
Vans get broken into and police do not even @ @ @ @ @ going on ? ''
Another social media user added : `` It ’ s getting @ @ @ @ @ But other residents said they had seen police carrying out enquiries in several streets in @ @ @ @ @ .
A Hampshire police spokesman officers would continue to target the affected areas .
`` @ @ @ @ @ patrol in the area and enquiries with the victims are ongoing as we continue to @ @ @ @ @

Officers have attempted to reassure the public after New Milton residents took to social media to complain that police were failing to take action.
One person posted: "Really frustrating. Vans get broken into and police do not even show up. What's going on?"
Another social media user added: "It’s getting beyond a joke."
But other residents said they had seen police carrying out enquiries in several streets in the days following the offences.
A Hampshire police spokesman officers would continue to target the affected areas.
"Specialist officers have been on patrol in the area and enquiries with the victims are ongoing as we continue to investigate these incidents."


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--VIDEO: Shocking footage of dangerous drivers released

SHOCKING dashcam footage of dangerous drivers has been released as part of a new police campaign .
From near-misses with cyclists to motorists driving the wrong way down the road , the video from the Hampshire Road Policing Team shows a number of incidents from around Hampshire .
The video has been released after Hampshire Police launched a new campaign , Hants SNAP , where anyone with footage of a potentially dangerous incident can submit it to the police .
In a Tweet , Hampshire Road Police explained that they have had more than 200 Hants SNAP submissions of moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim there has been an `` action rate '' of 46 per cent with 66 Notices of Intended Prosecution and 32 warning letter sent to those caught driving dangerously on camera .
They said : `` Thanks to your support we have been able to take action against drivers such as those in this video . ''
As previously reported , the scheme have been trialled since August 2019 with a focus on incidents that put pedestrians and cyclists at risk .
• Woman charged with drink driving following car fire in New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to all road users , and road offences , with the exception of collisions and some other offences which should be reported by calling 101 , or online .
To be considered by police , the footage must : • Be reported within seven days • Not have been deleted from your device • Not be shared on social media • Show between one to two minutes either side of the incident Users must also answer some questions , and provide a witness statement , before the footage is sent to decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is proportionate , and if the footage contains enough evidence .
Footage can be submitted by going to the SNAP site or on the Hampshire Constabulary website .

From near-misses with cyclists to motorists driving the wrong way down the road, the video from the Hampshire Road Policing Team shows a number of incidents from around Hampshire.
The video has been released after Hampshire Police launched a new campaign, Hants SNAP, where anyone with footage of a potentially dangerous incident can submit it to the police.
In a Tweet, Hampshire Road Police explained that they have had more than 200 Hants SNAP submissions of moving vehicle offences since July 1.
They claim there has been an "action rate" of 46 per cent with 66 Notices of Intended Prosecution and 32 warning letter sent to those caught driving dangerously on camera.
They said: "Thanks to your support we have been able to take action against drivers such as those in this video."
As previously reported, the scheme have been trialled since August 2019 with a focus on incidents that put pedestrians and cyclists at risk.
This has now been opened up to all road users, and road offences, with the exception of collisions and some other offences which should be reported by calling 101, or online.
To be considered by police, the footage must:
Be reported within seven days
Not be edited
Not have been deleted from your device
Not be shared on social media
Show between one to two minutes either side of the incident
Users must also answer some questions, and provide a witness statement, before the footage is sent to decision makers who will assess whether a prosecution is proportionate, and if the footage contains enough evidence.
Footage can be submitted by going to the SNAP site or on the Hampshire Constabulary website.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Homes to buy in Southampton for £100k or less

House prices are set to hold firm for the rest of the year as they remain “ unseasonably strong ” in the face of the recession , according to new research .
Zoopla ’ s latest monthly House Price Index has revealed that annual house price growth has sustained at 2.5 % as demand continues to overtake supply despite the coronavirus pandemic .
It revealed that house sales have also sped up dramatically since the outbreak struck , with the time for a sale averaging 27 days in the period since lockdown , compared to 39 days over the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struggling to get on the housing ladder , and desperate to buy their own home , thanks to Zoopla , we 've got four flats you can buy in Southampton for £100k - or pretty close to .
Up for sale at auction with a guide price of £100k , this property could be exceptional .
You 'll see from the pictures it needs some work , but it 's close to shopping and travelling facilities .
There are three bedrooms on the first floor as well as a bathroom and on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rear reception room and a kitchen .
There is also a garden .
Cash buyers only are wanted for this 'investment opportunity ' priced at £84,950 .
The eighth floor flat has two double bedrooms , under floor electric heating and a lounge/diner and kitchen .
Listed as open to offers over £90k , this double bedroom maisonette also includes a garden .
The sellers want cash buyers only , and the property is described as a `` modern ideal first time buy '' .
There is a lounge , modern kitchen , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is close to Bitterne , Woolston as well as Southampton city centre .
On the top floor with city views , there is a reception room with dual aspect views and high ceilings .
With a guide price of £90k , this is asking for cash buyers only and is recommended for 'someone looking for a long term investment but buying for a great price ' .

Zoopla’s latest monthly House Price Index has revealed that annual house price growth has sustained at 2.5% as demand continues to overtake supply despite the coronavirus pandemic.
It revealed that house sales have also sped up dramatically since the outbreak struck, with the time for a sale averaging 27 days in the period since lockdown, compared to 39 days over the same period last year.
With many people struggling to get on the housing ladder, and desperate to buy their own home, thanks to Zoopla, we've got four flats you can buy in Southampton for £100k - or pretty close to.
Three bed terraced house in Malmesbury Road
Up for sale at auction with a guide price of £100k, this property could be exceptional.
You'll see from the pictures it needs some work, but it's close to shopping and travelling facilities.
There are three bedrooms on the first floor as well as a bathroom and on the ground floor there is a front and rear reception room and a kitchen.
There is also a garden.
The auction takes place on September 3.
Two bedroom flat, Cuckmere Lane, Millbrook
Cash buyers only are wanted for this 'investment opportunity' priced at £84,950.
The eighth floor flat has two double bedrooms, under floor electric heating and a lounge/diner and kitchen.
One bed maisonette, Kingsclere Avenue, Weston
Listed as open to offers over £90k, this double bedroom maisonette also includes a garden.
The sellers want cash buyers only, and the property is described as a "modern ideal first time buy".
There is a lounge, modern kitchen, bedroom and modern bathroom and the home is close to Bitterne, Woolston as well as Southampton city centre.
One bedroom flat, Queensway, Southampton
On the top floor with city views, there is a reception room with dual aspect views and high ceilings.
With a guide price of £90k, this is asking for cash buyers only and is recommended for 'someone looking for a long term investment but buying for a great price'.
Refurbishment will be required.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Plastic bag levy to be doubled from April

The fee for plastic carrier bags is set to double from April next year , with the charge being extended to all shops in England , the Government has announced .
Small retailers – defined as those employing 250 people or fewer – will no longer be exempt from the levy , the Department for Environment , Food and Rural Affairs ( Defra ) said .
Following a public consultation last year , in which the “ vast majority ” of respondents welcomed the changes , the minimum charge for single use carrier bags will increase to 10p .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both changes from April 2021 .
Environment Secretary George Eustice said : “ The UK is already a world-leader in this global effort , and our carrier bag charge has been hugely successful in taking billions of harmful plastic bags out of circulation .
“ But we want to go further by extending this to all retailers so we can continue to cut unnecessary waste and build back greener .
“ I hope our pioneering track record on single-use plastics will inspire many more countries to follow suit , so we can take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change.
” The 5p levy on plastic bags was introduced in England in 2015 , with the most recent figures showing that the number of single-use bags distributed by large supermarkets has fallen more than 95 % .
The average person in England now buys just four single-use bags a year , compared to around 140 in 2014 .

Small retailers – defined as those employing 250 people or fewer – will no longer be exempt from the levy, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said.
Following a public consultation last year, in which the “vast majority” of respondents welcomed the changes, the minimum charge for single use carrier bags will increase to 10p.
The department said it has committed to implementing both changes from April 2021.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “The UK is already a world-leader in this global effort, and our carrier bag charge has been hugely successful in taking billions of harmful plastic bags out of circulation.
“But we want to go further by extending this to all retailers so we can continue to cut unnecessary waste and build back greener.
“I hope our pioneering track record on single-use plastics will inspire many more countries to follow suit, so we can take on plastic waste together and implement lasting change.”
The 5p levy on plastic bags was introduced in England in 2015, with the most recent figures showing that the number of single-use bags distributed by large supermarkets has fallen more than 95%.
The average person in England now buys just four single-use bags a year, compared to around 140 in 2014.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Wetherspoons launches Stay Out To Help Out with meals for less than £3

WETHERSPOONS launches its Stay out To Help Out scheme tomorrow with meals for less than £3 and 99p desserts .
@ @ @ @ @ introduced the scheme following the success of the government 's Eat Out To Help Out @ @ @ @ @ to be popular with a traditional breakfast at just £2.99 and three small plates for @ @ @ @ @ .
Wetherspoon founder and chairman Tim Martin said : `` The government ’ s Eat @ @ @ @ @ was extremely popular with our customers and a great boost to the hospitality industry .
@ @ @ @ @ in all the chain 's pubs including the Giddy Bridge and the Standing Order in @ @

The popular pub chain has introduced the scheme following the success of the government's Eat Out To Help Out initiative.
It is certain to be popular with a traditional breakfast at just £2.99 and three small plates for £7.50 from Monday to Wednesday.
Wetherspoon founder and chairman Tim Martin said: "The government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme was extremely popular with our customers and a great boost to the hospitality industry."
The scheme will run in all the chain's pubs including the Giddy Bridge and the Standing Order in Southampton.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--What3Words: Emergency services want people to download this life-saving app

A stranded kayaker rescued by using an app has urged everyone to download to their phones it as it could save their life .
The app is called what3words and works by dividing the world up into squares with unique codes .
Here is everything you need to know about the app .
What3words is an app that divides the whole world up into 57 trillion 10 ft by 10 ft squares .
Each square has a unique , individual “ address ” which is made up of three random words .
For example , one of the squares in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
Why is the app useful ?
If you become stranded or get into difficulty in a remote location - such as a field , forest or mountain - you can use the app to share your exact location with the emergency services .
The app is also able to provide directions .
What3words is also useful in non-emergency situations .
For example , if you and your friends go to a music festival and you get split up , you can give your friends your exact location using the app .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ signal to tell someone your three-word location using the app .
How was a stranded kayaker saved by the app ?
Jason Woodhouse , 33 , was rescued from Loch Ericht in Perthshire after using the what3words app to help the coastguard find him , after he became disoriented on the water .
Woodhouse managed to get himself to a small secluded beach and phoned the police , using the codewords provided by the app that gave emergency services his exact location .
The address the stranded kayaker was given by the app @ @ @ @ @ @ @ winched to safety by a Coastguard helicopter an hour later .
Woodhouse said : “ I would recommend everyone gets the app - it could save your life .
“ I knew it would be a quick and easy way to explain to the police where I was over the phone .
It was a really lucky escape.
” Previously , the app has been successful in other emergency situations .
For example it allowed police to find a 65-year-old man who became trapped after falling down a railway embankment in Sheffield .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rescue Service to find a woman who had crashed her car and didn ’ t know where she was .
How to use the app Begin by downloading the app either from the iOS store on your Apple device or from the Google Play store on your android device - either way , the app is free to use .
Once you ’ ve downloaded it , you ’ ll need to choose the language you ’ d like to use , and after that , you ’ re good to go .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ re good to go .
You ’ ll see a map , similar to Google Maps , and across the map is a grid .
Each grid represents a different address location .
You can click on the grid to see the location address , for example where you are right now , or you can type in any address to find out its three word code .
The what3words app divides the world up into unique addresses .
Here are the three-word addresses for some famous landmarks across the world @

The app is called what3words and works by dividing the world up into squares with unique codes.
Here is everything you need to know about the app.
What is ‘what3words’?
What3words is an app that divides the whole world up into 57 trillion 10 ft by 10 ft squares.
Each square has a unique, individual “address” which is made up of three random words.
For example, one of the squares in Loch Ness is called: “crusher.scorecard.sprays”.
Why is the app useful?
If you become stranded or get into difficulty in a remote location - such as a field, forest or mountain - you can use the app to share your exact location with the emergency services.
The app is also able to provide directions.
What3words is also useful in non-emergency situations.
For example, if you and your friends go to a music festival and you get split up, you can give your friends your exact location using the app.
You don’t need a phone signal to tell someone your three-word location using the app.
How was a stranded kayaker saved by the app?
Jason Woodhouse, 33, was rescued from Loch Ericht in Perthshire after using the what3words app to help the coastguard find him, after he became disoriented on the water.
Woodhouse managed to get himself to a small secluded beach and phoned the police, using the codewords provided by the app that gave emergency services his exact location.
The address the stranded kayaker was given by the app was “courage.nicer.fountain”.
He was winched to safety by a Coastguard helicopter an hour later.
Woodhouse said: “I would recommend everyone gets the app - it could save your life.
“I knew it would be a quick and easy way to explain to the police where I was over the phone. It was a really lucky escape.”
Previously, the app has been successful in other emergency situations.
For example it allowed police to find a 65-year-old man who became trapped after falling down a railway embankment in Sheffield.
The app also aided the Fire and Rescue Service to find a woman who had crashed her car and didn’t know where she was.
How to use the app
Begin by downloading the app either from the iOS store on your Apple device or from the Google Play store on your android device - either way, the app is free to use.
Once you’ve downloaded it, you’ll need to choose the language you’d like to use, and after that, you’re good to go.
Once downloaded, set your language and you’re good to go.
You’ll see a map, similar to Google Maps, and across the map is a grid. Each grid represents a different address location.
You can click on the grid to see the location address, for example where you are right now, or you can type in any address to find out its three word code.
Unique address for famous landmarks
The what3words app divides the world up into unique addresses.
Here are the three-word addresses for some famous landmarks across the world:


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Fordingbridge home plan rejected for being 'too cramped'

PLANS for a new single-storey home failed to get the backing of Fordingbridge Town Council over concerns the site would @ @ @ @ @ .
The council discussed a planning application for land at the rear of 14 Shaftesbury @ @ @ @ @ a new single-storey dwelling , with a turntable for a vehicle , during a meeting @ @ @ @ @ Councillors were told there had been objections from neighbours over the maple tree near the @ @ @ @ @ the building would be to the car park wall .
Loss of light and noise @ @ @ @ @ well as the size of the development in relation to the plot of land .
@ @ @ @ @ been redrawn .

The council discussed a planning application for land at the rear of 14 Shaftesbury Street in Fordingbridge to build a new single-storey dwelling, with a turntable for a vehicle, during a meeting of the full council.
Councillors were told there had been objections from neighbours over the maple tree near the car park and how close the building would be to the car park wall.
Loss of light and noise were also concerns raised as well as the size of the development in relation to the plot of land.
The planning application has now been redrawn.


College principal retires

Eastleigh college 's Principal is retiring following three decades working in further education .
Dr Jan Edrich , chief executive @ @ @ @ @ college in 2012 after gaining her doctorate in education .
Over 85,000 learners have graduated @ @ @ @ @ Jan ’ s reign at Eastleigh College .
Jan said : “ I have had @ @ @ @ @ dedicated and outstanding colleagues , and the culture of Eastleigh College makes it a great @ @ @ @ @ “ It ’ s especially sad that I ’ m parting at such an unusual @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I will deeply miss the college but know I ’ m leaving it @ @ @ @ @

Dr Jan Edrich, chief executive and principal, joined the college in 2012 after gaining her doctorate in education.
Over 85,000 learners have graduated from courses and apprenticeships during Jan’s reign at Eastleigh College.
Jan said: “I have had the privilege of working with dedicated and outstanding colleagues, and the culture of Eastleigh College makes it a great place to work in.
“It’s especially sad that I’m parting at such an unusual time with the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I will deeply miss the college but know I’m leaving it in safe hands.”


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Barton Peveril College DofE students commended

Barton Peveril students have been commended for their efforts in their Duke of Edinburgh Award .
Students from the sixth form college in Eastleigh that completed their Duke of Edinburgh ( DofE ) awards in the 2019/20 academic year have been commended for their volunteering efforts by the national youth awards programme .
The College students were celebrated for donating 754 hours of voluntary service , worth £3279.90 , to their local community .
In addition , the students completed 702 hours of physical activity and 884 hours working towards a skill as part of their Award and volunteering efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 14 to 24 with helping the community and environment , becoming fitter , developing new skills , and planning , training for and completing an expedition .
Students can complete these tasks at three progressive levels , from Bronze , to Silver , and finally to Gold .
The DofE South East Regional Office has also confirmed that , for the 2019/20 academic year , Barton Peveril students exceeded the charity ’ s Award completion target .
67 % of Barton Peveril students completed their Awards ( compared to a national target rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students received Gold Awards , 16 students received Silver Awards , and one student received a Bronze Award .
Barton Peveril teacher of Geography and DofE Manager , Elaine Hooton , commented on the students ’ celebrated volunteering efforts : `` The DofE Award is a challenging undertaking that asks for and develops independence , resilience and confidence .
`` Huge congratulations to all of our students who completed their Awards over the last year and can enjoy their sense of achievement and take these qualities forward into their employment and university applications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enables our students to make a really valuable contribution to our local communities through their activities in completing their volunteering , physical and skills sections .
`` We ’ re so proud of all of them as positive and caring citizens . ''

Students from the sixth form college in Eastleigh that completed their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) awards in the 2019/20 academic year have been commended for their volunteering efforts by the national youth awards programme.
The College students were celebrated for donating 754 hours of voluntary service, worth £3279.90, to their local community.
In addition, the students completed 702 hours of physical activity and 884 hours working towards a skill as part of their Award and volunteering efforts.
The DofE Awards task students aged 14 to 24 with helping the community and environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills, and planning, training for and completing an expedition.
Students can complete these tasks at three progressive levels, from Bronze, to Silver, and finally to Gold.
The DofE South East Regional Office has also confirmed that, for the 2019/20 academic year, Barton Peveril students exceeded the charity’s Award completion target.
67% of Barton Peveril students completed their Awards (compared to a national target rate of 60% completion).
Three students received Gold Awards, 16 students received Silver Awards, and one student received a Bronze Award.
Barton Peveril teacher of Geography and DofE Manager, Elaine Hooton, commented on the students’ celebrated volunteering efforts: "The DofE Award is a challenging undertaking that asks for and develops independence, resilience and confidence.
"Huge congratulations to all of our students who completed their Awards over the last year and can enjoy their sense of achievement and take these qualities forward into their employment and university applications.
"As importantly, the Award enables our students to make a really valuable contribution to our local communities through their activities in completing their volunteering, physical and skills sections.
"We’re so proud of all of them as positive and caring citizens."


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--No Limits and Youth Options to help vulnerable school children

TWO Southampton charities have launched a project to help vulnerable school children as they transition to secondary school .
No Limits and Youth Options are working with schools and Southampton City Council ’ s Violence Reduction Unit to focus on children who are at risk of anti-social behaviour during the pandemic .
The project will aim to help them turn away from negative behaviour and begin secondary school in a positive way .
With funding from the Youth Endowment Fund , the project will draw on both charities ’ strengths , with Youth Options offering outdoor learning sessions and No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationships and managing emotions .
A city councillor said the scheme will help school children to `` flourish '' in a new setting .
Councillor Darren Paffey , Cabinet Member for Children and Learning at Southampton City Council said : `` Moving from primary to secondary is a huge milestone in any young person 's life .
The transition can sometimes be difficult , and some young people might find that they need additional support to help them really flourish in a new and unfamiliar school setting .
`` We want to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so I 'm really pleased that we 're partnering with two excellent local charities and working together to provide targeted help and support to vulnerable children who need it .
By working together and sharing our expertise to support young people , we can help get the next chapter of their school lives off to the best possible start . ''
Alice Mooney , Service Manager at No Limits , said : “ Transitioning from Year 6 into Year 7 can be a really difficult adjustment for children and young people , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the impacts of Covid-19 .
Children and young people are facing a whole range of emotions , which can in turn lead to anti-social behaviour .
Working with Youth Options is a great opportunity to be able to support young people at a crucial time in their lives.
” Becky Pollard , Director of Services at Youth Options , said : “ We could not be more excited to work with Youth Endowment Fund and No Limits to help those who need us now more than ever .
This has been an uncertain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are delighted to be able to offer them support as they transition from primary to secondary school .
”

No Limits and Youth Options are working with schools and Southampton City Council’s Violence Reduction Unit to focus on children who are at risk of anti-social behaviour during the pandemic.
The project will aim to help them turn away from negative behaviour and begin secondary school in a positive way.
With funding from the Youth Endowment Fund, the project will draw on both charities’ strengths, with Youth Options offering outdoor learning sessions and No Limits providing support on emotional resilience, relationships and managing emotions.
A city councillor said the scheme will help school children to "flourish" in a new setting.
Councillor Darren Paffey, Cabinet Member for Children and Learning at Southampton City Council said: "Moving from primary to secondary is a huge milestone in any young person's life. The transition can sometimes be difficult, and some young people might find that they need additional support to help them really flourish in a new and unfamiliar school setting.
"We want to support young people at this crucial time, so I'm really pleased that we're partnering with two excellent local charities and working together to provide targeted help and support to vulnerable children who need it. By working together and sharing our expertise to support young people, we can help get the next chapter of their school lives off to the best possible start."
Alice Mooney, Service Manager at No Limits, said: “Transitioning from Year 6 into Year 7 can be a really difficult adjustment for children and young people, even more so now as a result of the impacts of Covid-19.
Children and young people are facing a whole range of emotions, which can in turn lead to anti-social behaviour. Working with Youth Options is a great opportunity to be able to support young people at a crucial time in their lives.”
Becky Pollard, Director of Services at Youth Options, said: “We could not be more excited to work with Youth Endowment Fund and No Limits to help those who need us now more than ever. This has been an uncertain time for many young people, and we are delighted to be able to offer them support as they transition from primary to secondary school.”


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Clint Bradley wins Academy of Western Artists’ award

A WESTERN music singer and songwriter based in Somerley has been recognised with an artist of the year award .
Clint Bradley received the Academy of Western Artists ’ ( AWA ) western male artist of the year award .
Unfortunately , because of Covid-19 travel restrictions in the United States he was unable to attend the awards ceremony which was held in Fort Worth , Texas on Thursday , August 13 .
He said : “ This is a huge honour for me , especially as I ’ m based here in the UK , and the AWA is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ USA and worldwide.
” Clint was watching the ceremony unfold over live stream and says he was on the “ edge of his seat ” as he waited to find out if he had won the best artist award - which was the last category of the night .
Despite the wait he says he will “ never forget ” winning the award and feels it is a “ seal of approval ” from the the industry .
“ I ’ m pretty much knocked out to be honest and to be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is a very respected body , ” added the 55-year-old .
“ I was due to be there , obviously the travel restrictions prevented that .
I watched it on live stream .
“ It was quite a shock [ to be announced as the winner ] .
I got nominated back in 2016 , it is the first time I have won.
” Clint had also been due to perform at the ceremony and said : “ I would have loved to have been there to perform and be part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is amazing.
” Clint was also nominated for album of the year and song of the year , which he had also been shortlisted for back in 2016 .
“ The biggest thing for me about getting the award is the fact that it is voted for by disc jockeys .
The AWA has a worldwide roster of DJs and to get this far and win it means that the airplay has been good .
“ It ’ s all positive for me as an artist , especially as an independent artist.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Clint since childhood , who says “ it ’ s always been a love of mine ” .
“ I just love the honesty of it .
Western music is primarily acoustic , ” explains Clint .
Clint and his band had a substantial tour schedule lined up this year , which has had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Instead this has given him time to work on some music for a new album .
But , he does admit he has “ greatly missed ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get back on the road .
For more information go to clintbradley.co.uk

Clint Bradley received the Academy of Western Artists’ (AWA) western male artist of the year award.
Unfortunately, because of Covid-19 travel restrictions in the United States he was unable to attend the awards ceremony which was held in Fort Worth, Texas on Thursday, August 13.
He said: “This is a huge honour for me, especially as I’m based here in the UK, and the AWA is such a highly regarded organisation in the USA and worldwide.”
Clint was watching the ceremony unfold over live stream and says he was on the “edge of his seat” as he waited to find out if he had won the best artist award - which was the last category of the night.
Despite the wait he says he will “never forget” winning the award and feels it is a “seal of approval” from the the industry.
“I’m pretty much knocked out to be honest and to be the first British artist to do it. It is a very respected body,” added the 55-year-old.
“I was due to be there, obviously the travel restrictions prevented that. I watched it on live stream.
“It was quite a shock [to be announced as the winner]. I got nominated back in 2016, it is the first time I have won.”
Clint had also been due to perform at the ceremony and said: “I would have loved to have been there to perform and be part of the whole thing. To have won is amazing.”
Clint was also nominated for album of the year and song of the year, which he had also been shortlisted for back in 2016.
“The biggest thing for me about getting the award is the fact that it is voted for by disc jockeys. The AWA has a worldwide roster of DJs and to get this far and win it means that the airplay has been good.
“It’s all positive for me as an artist, especially as an independent artist.”
Western music has always been a passion for Clint since childhood, who says “it’s always been a love of mine”.
“I just love the honesty of it. Western music is primarily acoustic,” explains Clint.
Clint and his band had a substantial tour schedule lined up this year, which has had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Instead this has given him time to work on some music for a new album. But, he does admit he has “greatly missed” touring and is “itching” to get back on the road.
For more information go to clintbradley.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--How to avoid getting ill from the harmful bacteria in your fridge

An investigation by consumer group Which ?
has revealed that seven out of ten fridges contain harmful bacteria .
The worst cases from the investigation found high levels of bacteria that can cause a variety of illnesses and infections , including sepsis .
What did the investigation find ?
The investigators took five swabs from different locations in ten fridges .
These were : • Bottom shelf ( where meat should be kept ) The report states : “ You introduce new microbes into the fridge every time you unpack groceries , so we weren ’ t surprised to find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” While many of the samples came back harmless , the investigation did unearth some concerning samples .
19 of the 50 samples showed the likes of Aeromonas bacteria , Enterobactera clocae and Klebsiella oxytoca , as well as others .
“ These germs are linked with respiratory and urinary infections , especially for people with existing health problems or weakened immune systems , ” the report said .
These bacteria can cause “ food-borne illnesses and a range of infections , from skin conditions to sepsis ” the report said .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have come from unwashed vegetables , highlighting the importance of cleaning your fridge regularly.
” Failing to keep your fridge at the correct temperature , and not cleaning it frequently enough are two of the main reasons that harmful bacteria thrive.How to keep my fridge safe ?
How to keep my fridge safe ?
According to the Food Standards Agency ( FSA ) , a fridge should be kept between the temperatures of 0°C and 5°C .
The best way to check the temperature of your fridge is by using a fridge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is because the dials on fridges don ’ t always show you the right temperature.
” “ More than four in ten of the fridge freezers we ’ ve tested have a default or recommended setting that ’ s either inaccurate or unreliable , ” Which ?
reported .
The coldest part of your fridge should register below 5°C .
How to best clean my fridge ?
The Which ?
investigation put together a list of advice for effectively cleaning your fridge : You should clean your fridge and defrost your freezer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fridge will bring the internal temperature up , so time cleaning to take place before a big shop , when your fridge is empty .
Take out the shelves , drawers and door racks to clean in warm , soapy water .
Wipe down the inside of the fridge with lukewarm , soapy water - but try and minimise the amount of time the fridge door is open ( and how warm the water is ) as both of these will bring the temperature of the fridge up .
Anti-bacterial spray is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runs the risk of getting on your food .
Mixing water and baking soda is an effective way to tackle stubborn stains , and a small cup of baking soda placed in the fridge will help absorb odours .
The FSA also recommends being aware of not overfilling your fridge .
Leaving some breathing space will allow the air to circulate more effectively and maintain a consistent temperature .

The worst cases from the investigation found high levels of bacteria that can cause a variety of illnesses and infections, including sepsis.
What did the investigation find?
The investigators took five swabs from different locations in ten fridges. These were:
Vegetable drawer
Bottom shelf (where meat should be kept)
Upper door rack
Back wall
Outer door handle
The report states: “You introduce new microbes into the fridge every time you unpack groceries, so we weren’t surprised to find that every fridge was teeming with bacteria.”
While many of the samples came back harmless, the investigation did unearth some concerning samples.
19 of the 50 samples showed the likes of Aeromonas bacteria, Enterobactera clocae and Klebsiella oxytoca, as well as others.
“These germs are linked with respiratory and urinary infections, especially for people with existing health problems or weakened immune systems,” the report said.
These bacteria can cause “food-borne illnesses and a range of infections, from skin conditions to sepsis” the report said.
It continued: “They’re likely to have come from unwashed vegetables, highlighting the importance of cleaning your fridge regularly.”
Failing to keep your fridge at the correct temperature, and not cleaning it frequently enough are two of the main reasons that harmful bacteria thrive.How to keep my fridge safe?
How to keep my fridge safe?
According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), a fridge should be kept between the temperatures of 0°C and 5°C.
“Chilling food properly helps stop harmful bacteria from growing,” the FSA explains.
The best way to check the temperature of your fridge is by using a fridge thermometer.
The FSA says: “This is because the dials on fridges don’t always show you the right temperature.”
“More than four in ten of the fridge freezers we’ve tested have a default or recommended setting that’s either inaccurate or unreliable,” Which? reported.
The coldest part of your fridge should register below 5°C.
How to best clean my fridge?
The Which? investigation put together a list of advice for effectively cleaning your fridge:
You should clean your fridge and defrost your freezer around once a month.
Cleaning the fridge will bring the internal temperature up, so time cleaning to take place before a big shop, when your fridge is empty.
Take out the shelves, drawers and door racks to clean in warm, soapy water.
Wipe down the inside of the fridge with lukewarm, soapy water - but try and minimise the amount of time the fridge door is open (and how warm the water is) as both of these will bring the temperature of the fridge up.
Anti-bacterial spray is not recommended for cleaning your fridge as it runs the risk of getting on your food.
Mixing water and baking soda is an effective way to tackle stubborn stains, and a small cup of baking soda placed in the fridge will help absorb odours.
The FSA also recommends being aware of not overfilling your fridge.
Leaving some breathing space will allow the air to circulate more effectively and maintain a consistent temperature.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Best card games to play with friends (and how to play them)

The best card games to play with friends have been revealed .
But how do you keep entertained - especially when the British weather is so unreliable ?
All you need is a standard 52 card deck .
Here is a roundup of some of the best card games you can play , no matter how many players you have in your party .
Gin Rummy is a version of another card game called Rummy - the aim of the game is to rack up more than 100 points using the cards in your hand before your opponents .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number on the card - ones and twos are low and jacks , queens and kings are high .
In Gin Rummy , aces are low in the game , worth one point .
An example of a set would be a 10 of diamonds , 10 of spades and 10 of clubs .
An example of a run would be if you had the Jack of diamonds , Queen of diamonds and King of diamonds .
Spread the desk of cards out on the table and each player can take a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest card chooses where to sit and deals out ten cards to each player , leaving the remaining cards in the centre of the table .
The remaining cards create the stockpile .
The top card of this pile is placed face up next to it and this is now the discard pile .
In following games , the player who won the previous hand becomes the dealer .
A player who was not the dealer starts the game , with the option to pick up the upturned card - if they want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to discard one of their cards .
If the card is of no use to the player , then you can pass without discarding one of your cards .
The option then moves on to the next player , who can decide if they want the card or not .
Then the first player can now take the top card off the stockpile , discarding one of their cards in turn .
The game continues like this , with each player being able to take the top card off the stockpile or the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - when discarding a card , it can not be the same card that they just picked up from the discard pile .
At the end of each round , each player should still have ten cards .
The game should be ended if only two cards in the stockpile remain - if a player takes the third to last card in the stockpile , then the hand is cancelled and no points are awarded to any players and the cards must be re-dealt .
A player can Knock if all their cards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ runs ) - if you ’ ve reached this point and have no rogue cards , then you ’ ve reached “ Gin ” .
Reaching gin awards you 25 extra bonus points .
A player can Knock before this point however if they suspect their opponent might reach Gin before them .
However , for players to Knock , all their unmatched cards ( which are called deadwood ) must amount to ten points or less .
When a player folds ( exposing all their cards ) , the opponent does the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get rid of their deadwood cards onto your cards .
For example , if a player has made a meld of three Kings and the player in play has the fourth King , they may place it on the 3 King meld to complete the set .
Likewise , if a meld is made of the 2 , 3 , and 4 of clubs and the player in play has the Ace of clubs , they may place it before the 2 to build upon the run .
After the non-knocking player gets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can , points are given to the knocking player based on the difference between the card values of the remaining deadwood in the game .
If the non-Knocking player has less deadwood than the knocking player , it is known as an undercut and the non-knocking player receives the points along with a 10 point bonus .
How to keep score : The game ends when enough rounds have been played to allow one player to get 100 or more points .
The player who makes Gin , scores 20 points plus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unmatched cards .
If the player who Knocks wins the game , they score the difference in the value of their unmatched cards with those of their opponent , while if the opponent wins , they score 10 points plus the difference in the value of the unmatched cards between both players .
If there is no difference , the 10 point bonus remains .
Once the game has finished , the players note down the following bonuses : 100 points for winning a game , 20 points for each partial game won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rounds of a game without the opponent having won any .
Perfect for two players , spit is a fast paced game where players aim to get rid of all their cards first .
There ’ s no turn taking in this game - it ’ s purely a matter of speed .
Begin by dealing the entire pack out evenly between two players - do not look at the cards yet .
From there , each player will arrange five piles of cards in front of them arranged as such , from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two cards , three cards , four cards , five cards .
The top card of each pile is facing up , with the cards underneath facing down .
The remaining cards are then kept by each player and are placed in the centre of the table with some space in between them .
Each player then takes the top card from their pile and places it in the centre of the table , which is when the game begins .
Using the cards in front of you , you can place a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the sequence from the cards in the centre .
You can play on either piles , not just the one you turned over .
When playing , if you have duplicates of the same card in your piles , you can double them up so that you can turn over the card from underneath to give you more options to play from , while maintaining your five piles .
Only when you play or move the top card from a pile can you then turn over the next card .
Once one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they need to place their hand on the smaller pile and shout : “ Spit !
” The winner then takes the smaller pile and the loser the larger pile and the process is repeated until one of the players runs out of cards .
If both players get stuck and neither can play any cards from their piles , then they will both turn over a card from their piles in the centre of the table to start a new round .
Egyptian Ratscrews is a version of the game Snap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ card games , the aim of the game is to be the one to collect all the cards before your opponents .
Begin by dealing out all the contents of a pack of cards amongst all the players - the players can not look at their cards .
Then , taking it in turns , each player turns over their top card and places it in the centre of the group for everyone to see .
The following times are when players are allowed to snap : • Double : when two of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other • Sandwich : when two of the same cards are only separated by one other different card ( e.g 5 , 9 , 5 ) • Tens : when two cards played consecutively add up to ten - for this rule , an Ace counts as one • Joker : if either of the Jokers are played , the pile can be snapped - variations of the game also have players snap on the number seven card instead if Jokers are not in play Four in a row : when four cards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a row ( e.g 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ) • Marriage : when a Queen is played next to a King , either before or after When a player correctly snaps the pile , they get to add it to their hand .
If a player snaps the pile , but there are no snappable cards , then they must forfeit two of their cards to the pile .
The game continues until one player holds all the cards .
Best played with a larger group of players , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rid of all your cards first .
Begin by dealing out the entire contents of the pack of cards between all the players .
The players are allowed to look at their cards , but no-one else should be able to see them .
From there , group your cards into any pairs or sets you might have of the same cards .
Next players take it in turn to place their cards in the middle of the table , face down so that no one can see them , and then tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ placed down - for example , two fives .
The person next to them would be able to place down cards one above or one below the person before them - so either fours or sixes .
The twist is that you don ’ t have to actually be putting down the cards you say you are - you could put down a six and a Queen and lie and say you ’ re putting down two sevens .
If you suspect someone is lying - for example , someone says they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you already have two eights , then you shout : “ Cheat !
” If the person who has been accused of cheating is actually cheating , they have to take all the cards in the centre and add them to their hand .
If the person accused of cheating is actually telling the truth , then the person who accused them in the first place must take all the cards in the centre of the pile .
Scabby Queen is a game of bluff and trying to avoid being landed with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out all the Queen cards except one and shuffling the deck .
Deal the entire deck equally between all the players .
The players can look at their own cards , but should take care not to let other players see them .
From here , take any pairs of cards ( like two sixes , or two Kings etc . )
and remove these from your hand , placing them on the table .
Then , players take it in turns to take a random card from the player next to them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to avoid the Queen card .
As the game goes on , players should continue to remove any pairs of cards from their hands .
The game continues until there is only one card left - the player left holding the Queen card is the loser .
This card game has players aim to get as close to the number 21 without going over .
There are many versions of this game with more rules , but this is the simplified version .
Players are dealt two cards , face up , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they ’ d like to “ stick ” or “ twist ” .
A player might stick if their cards , when added together , are close to 21 and they fear they are in danger of going over .
Alternatively , if the player has been dealt low cards , they can twist , and the dealer will give them another card .
They can then decide again whether they would like to twist or stick with their hand .
If a player goes over 21 , then they have lost and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ player with the hand closest to 21 is the winner .
Face cards are worth 10 points and Aces are worth one .
This game is great for younger players as well , as it ’ s not too difficult or fast paced .
The aim of the game is to have the most sets of four of the same cards in each suit - like the four of diamonds , four of clubs , four of hearts and four of spades .
Each player is dealt five cards , with the remaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the table .
Players take turns asking other players if they have a certain card - for example , “ Have you got any fours ?
” If a player does indeed have fours , then they have to give the player who asked all of their fours .
If they don ’ t , then they tell that player “ Go fish !
” and the player picks up a random card from the pile in the centre of the pile .
To ask a player if they have any fours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least one four - they can not ask for a card that they do not already hold .
The game continues until all the cards in the centre of the table have been picked up and whoever has the most sets of cards is the winner .
The aim of Crazy Eights is to reach a specific number of points - for two players , it ’ s 100 points , for three players it ’ s 150 , for four it ’ s 200 and for five players it ’ s 250 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ player ( or seven cards for a two player game ) , with the remaining cards placed face down in the centre of the table .
The top card is then placed face up to begin the game .
Players then have to then play their cards depending on the card that ’ s in the centre of the table - for example , a seven of clubs is played , so the next player can play any seven card or any card that ’ s a club .
Alternatively , a player @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - that player can then declare what suits the players then have to play , such as hearts , diamonds etc .
If a player can not play a suitable card , then they have to draw a card from the stockpile and skip their turn .
The game ends when one player successfully empties their hand .
That person then collects a payment from each opponent that ’ s equal to the point score of the cards remaining in the opponent ’ s hand .
Eight ’ s score 50 , face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face value .
The winner of the game is the first player to reach a specific number .
For two players , it ’ s 100 points , for three players it ’ s 150 , for four it ’ s 200 and for five players it ’ s 250 .

But how do you keep entertained - especially when the British weather is so unreliable?
All you need is a standard 52 card deck.
Here is a roundup of some of the best card games you can play, no matter how many players you have in your party.
Gin Rummy
For 2-4 players
Gin Rummy is a version of another card game called Rummy - the aim of the game is to rack up more than 100 points using the cards in your hand before your opponents.
The value of each card is related to the number on the card - ones and twos are low and jacks, queens and kings are high. In Gin Rummy, aces are low in the game, worth one point.
An example of a set would be a 10 of diamonds, 10 of spades and 10 of clubs.
An example of a run would be if you had the Jack of diamonds, Queen of diamonds and King of diamonds.
Spread the desk of cards out on the table and each player can take a card - the player who drew the highest card chooses where to sit and deals out ten cards to each player, leaving the remaining cards in the centre of the table.
The remaining cards create the stockpile. The top card of this pile is placed face up next to it and this is now the discard pile. In following games, the player who won the previous hand becomes the dealer.
A player who was not the dealer starts the game, with the option to pick up the upturned card - if they want the card, they’ll have to discard one of their cards. If the card is of no use to the player, then you can pass without discarding one of your cards. The option then moves on to the next player, who can decide if they want the card or not.
Then the first player can now take the top card off the stockpile, discarding one of their cards in turn. The game continues like this, with each player being able to take the top card off the stockpile or the discard pile, then discarding a card - when discarding a card, it cannot be the same card that they just picked up from the discard pile. At the end of each round, each player should still have ten cards.
The game should be ended if only two cards in the stockpile remain - if a player takes the third to last card in the stockpile, then the hand is cancelled and no points are awarded to any players and the cards must be re-dealt.
A player can Knock if all their cards form melds (so either sets or runs) - if you’ve reached this point and have no rogue cards, then you’ve reached “Gin”. Reaching gin awards you 25 extra bonus points.
A player can Knock before this point however if they suspect their opponent might reach Gin before them. However, for players to Knock, all their unmatched cards (which are called deadwood) must amount to ten points or less.
When a player folds (exposing all their cards), the opponent does the same, which presents their opponents to get rid of their deadwood cards onto your cards. For example, if a player has made a meld of three Kings and the player in play has the fourth King, they may place it on the 3 King meld to complete the set. Likewise, if a meld is made of the 2, 3, and 4 of clubs and the player in play has the Ace of clubs, they may place it before the 2 to build upon the run.
After the non-knocking player gets rid of all the deadwood cards that they can, points are given to the knocking player based on the difference between the card values of the remaining deadwood in the game. If the non-Knocking player has less deadwood than the knocking player, it is known as an undercut and the non-knocking player receives the points along with a 10 point bonus.
How to keep score: The game ends when enough rounds have been played to allow one player to get 100 or more points.
The player who makes Gin, scores 20 points plus the value of the opponent’s unmatched cards. If the player who Knocks wins the game, they score the difference in the value of their unmatched cards with those of their opponent, while if the opponent wins, they score 10 points plus the difference in the value of the unmatched cards between both players. If there is no difference, the 10 point bonus remains.
Once the game has finished, the players note down the following bonuses: 100 points for winning a game, 20 points for each partial game won and 100 points for winning all the rounds of a game without the opponent having won any.
Spit
For 2 players
Perfect for two players, spit is a fast paced game where players aim to get rid of all their cards first. There’s no turn taking in this game - it’s purely a matter of speed.
Begin by dealing the entire pack out evenly between two players - do not look at the cards yet.
From there, each player will arrange five piles of cards in front of them arranged as such, from left to right - one card, two cards, three cards, four cards, five cards. The top card of each pile is facing up, with the cards underneath facing down.
The remaining cards are then kept by each player and are placed in the centre of the table with some space in between them.
Each player then takes the top card from their pile and places it in the centre of the table, which is when the game begins.
Using the cards in front of you, you can place a card that is one up or down in the sequence from the cards in the centre. You can play on either piles, not just the one you turned over.
When playing, if you have duplicates of the same card in your piles, you can double them up so that you can turn over the card from underneath to give you more options to play from, while maintaining your five piles. Only when you play or move the top card from a pile can you then turn over the next card.
Once one player has played all of their cards, they need to place their hand on the smaller pile and shout: “Spit!”
The winner then takes the smaller pile and the loser the larger pile and the process is repeated until one of the players runs out of cards.
If both players get stuck and neither can play any cards from their piles, then they will both turn over a card from their piles in the centre of the table to start a new round.
Egyptian Ratscrews
For 2+ players
Egyptian Ratscrews is a version of the game Snap, but more extreme. Unlike other card games, the aim of the game is to be the one to collect all the cards before your opponents.
Begin by dealing out all the contents of a pack of cards amongst all the players - the players cannot look at their cards.
Then, taking it in turns, each player turns over their top card and places it in the centre of the group for everyone to see.
The following times are when players are allowed to snap:
Double: when two of the same cards are placed on each other
Sandwich: when two of the same cards are only separated by one other different card (e.g 5, 9, 5)
Tens: when two cards played consecutively add up to ten - for this rule, an Ace counts as one
Joker: if either of the Jokers are played, the pile can be snapped - variations of the game also have players snap on the number seven card instead if Jokers are not in play
Four in a row: when four cards are played in ascending or descending order in a row (e.g 4, 5, 6, 7)
Four in a row: when four cards are played in ascending or descending order in a row (e.g 4, 5, 6, 7) Marriage: when a Queen is played next to a King, either before or after
When a player correctly snaps the pile, they get to add it to their hand. If a player snaps the pile, but there are no snappable cards, then they must forfeit two of their cards to the pile.
The game continues until one player holds all the cards.
Cheat
For 3+ players
Best played with a larger group of players, the aim of Cheat is to get rid of all your cards first.
Begin by dealing out the entire contents of the pack of cards between all the players. The players are allowed to look at their cards, but no-one else should be able to see them.
From there, group your cards into any pairs or sets you might have of the same cards.
Next players take it in turn to place their cards in the middle of the table, face down so that no one can see them, and then tell the group what cards they’ve placed down - for example, two fives.
The person next to them would be able to place down cards one above or one below the person before them - so either fours or sixes.
The twist is that you don’t have to actually be putting down the cards you say you are - you could put down a six and a Queen and lie and say you’re putting down two sevens.
If you suspect someone is lying - for example, someone says they’re putting down three eights, but you already have two eights, then you shout: “Cheat!”
If the person who has been accused of cheating is actually cheating, they have to take all the cards in the centre and add them to their hand.
If the person accused of cheating is actually telling the truth, then the person who accused them in the first place must take all the cards in the centre of the pile.
Scabby Queen
For 2+ players
Scabby Queen is a game of bluff and trying to avoid being landed with the dreaded Scabby Queen.
Begin by taking out all the Queen cards except one and shuffling the deck. Deal the entire deck equally between all the players.
The players can look at their own cards, but should take care not to let other players see them. From here, take any pairs of cards (like two sixes, or two Kings etc.) and remove these from your hand, placing them on the table.
Then, players take it in turns to take a random card from the player next to them. The aim of the game is to avoid the Queen card. As the game goes on, players should continue to remove any pairs of cards from their hands.
The game continues until there is only one card left - the player left holding the Queen card is the loser.
21
For 2+ players
This card game has players aim to get as close to the number 21 without going over. There are many versions of this game with more rules, but this is the simplified version.
Players are dealt two cards, face up, and they have to tell the dealer whether they’d like to “stick” or “twist”. A player might stick if their cards, when added together, are close to 21 and they fear they are in danger of going over.
Alternatively, if the player has been dealt low cards, they can twist, and the dealer will give them another card. They can then decide again whether they would like to twist or stick with their hand.
If a player goes over 21, then they have lost and are out of the game. The player with the hand closest to 21 is the winner.
Face cards are worth 10 points and Aces are worth one.
Go Fish
For 2+ players
This game is great for younger players as well, as it’s not too difficult or fast paced. The aim of the game is to have the most sets of four of the same cards in each suit - like the four of diamonds, four of clubs, four of hearts and four of spades.
Each player is dealt five cards, with the remaining cards placed face down in the centre of the table.
Players take turns asking other players if they have a certain card - for example, “Have you got any fours?” If a player does indeed have fours, then they have to give the player who asked all of their fours. If they don’t, then they tell that player “Go fish!” and the player picks up a random card from the pile in the centre of the pile.
To ask a player if they have any fours, the player asking must have at least one four - they cannot ask for a card that they do not already hold.
The game continues until all the cards in the centre of the table have been picked up and whoever has the most sets of cards is the winner.
Crazy Eights
For 2-5 players
The aim of Crazy Eights is to reach a specific number of points - for two players, it’s 100 points, for three players it’s 150, for four it’s 200 and for five players it’s 250.
Five cards are dealt to each player (or seven cards for a two player game), with the remaining cards placed face down in the centre of the table. The top card is then placed face up to begin the game.
Players then have to then play their cards depending on the card that’s in the centre of the table - for example, a seven of clubs is played, so the next player can play any seven card or any card that’s a club.
Alternatively, a player can play an eight at any point - that player can then declare what suits the players then have to play, such as hearts, diamonds etc.
If a player cannot play a suitable card, then they have to draw a card from the stockpile and skip their turn.
The game ends when one player successfully empties their hand. That person then collects a payment from each opponent that’s equal to the point score of the cards remaining in the opponent’s hand.
Eight’s score 50, face cards score 10 and other cards are face value. The winner of the game is the first player to reach a specific number. For two players, it’s 100 points, for three players it’s 150, for four it’s 200 and for five players it’s 250.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Is it illegal to take pebbles from the beach? This is what the law says

The question of whether it is illegal to remove pebbles from a beach in the UK has been thrust back into the spotlight .
It comes after Stacey Solomon joked to fans on social media that she could be arrested , after taking pebbles from the beach while on a family holiday in August .
The 30-year-old singer-turned-TV presenter shared a post of herself collecting pebbles at the beach for a DIY project while on holiday with partner Joe Swash and their son Rex .
However her fans were quick to point out that such an act is illegal in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , `` Well , that 's a bummer .
I just spent two hours collecting those bad boys ” before promising to return the pebbles .
So , were her fans right ?
Is it illegal to remove pebbles from a beach in the UK ?
Under the Coastal Protection Act 1949 , the removal of any natural material such as sand and pebbles from public beaches in the UK is illegal .
Last year , a tourist who had holidayed near Crackington Haven beach , Cornwall was forced to drive hundreds of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to return some pebbles he had taken from the beach .
Pebble theft is in fact so prevalent in the area that Cornwall Council , which owns 57 of the county ’ s beaches , had to put up numerous warning signs explaining the illegal nature of the act for clarification .
Additionally , in 2018 , the Metro reported on a group of thieves described by the paper as ‘ grain gangs ’ , who would use JCB diggers to take large quantities of sand from Hemsby beach in Norfolk , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile over in Devon , council gardeners were forced to microchip public plants after suffering a “ severe ” amount of thefts in the area .
Why is it illegal ?
Bans on seemingly harmless acts can be enforced by local councils , and can see offenders fined up to £1,000 as a penalty .
Yet while it may seem perfectly harmless , removing pebbles and other natural matter from the coast is in fact damaging to the environment .
As suggested by the name of the Act , and as stated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking natural material from a beach in the UK is illegal , in order to protect Britain 's beaches “ against erosion and encroachment by the sea ” .
Pebbles and other natural matter act as a natural sea defence against coastal erosion , which many experts warn has become even more of an issue due to climate change .

It comes after Stacey Solomon joked to fans on social media that she could be arrested, after taking pebbles from the beach while on a family holiday in August.
The 30-year-old singer-turned-TV presenter shared a post of herself collecting pebbles at the beach for a DIY project while on holiday with partner Joe Swash and their son Rex.
However her fans were quick to point out that such an act is illegal in England.
To which the star replied, "Well, that's a bummer. I just spent two hours collecting those bad boys” before promising to return the pebbles.
So, were her fans right?
Is it illegal to remove pebbles from a beach in the UK?
Under the Coastal Protection Act 1949, the removal of any natural material such as sand and pebbles from public beaches in the UK is illegal.
Last year, a tourist who had holidayed near Crackington Haven beach, Cornwall was forced to drive hundreds of miles back to the spot in order to return some pebbles he had taken from the beach.
Pebble theft is in fact so prevalent in the area that Cornwall Council, which owns 57 of the county’s beaches, had to put up numerous warning signs explaining the illegal nature of the act for clarification.
Additionally, in 2018, the Metro reported on a group of thieves described by the paper as ‘grain gangs’, who would use JCB diggers to take large quantities of sand from Hemsby beach in Norfolk, in order to sell it on to builders.
Meanwhile over in Devon, council gardeners were forced to microchip public plants after suffering a “severe” amount of thefts in the area.
Why is it illegal?
Bans on seemingly harmless acts can be enforced by local councils, and can see offenders fined up to £1,000 as a penalty.
Yet while it may seem perfectly harmless, removing pebbles and other natural matter from the coast is in fact damaging to the environment.
As suggested by the name of the Act, and as stated in the introduction of the Act, taking natural material from a beach in the UK is illegal, in order to protect Britain's beaches “against erosion and encroachment by the sea”.
Pebbles and other natural matter act as a natural sea defence against coastal erosion, which many experts warn has become even more of an issue due to climate change.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Sue Wrinch remembered by Winchester Heritage Open Day event

A SPECIAL Heritage Open Days event will be dedicated to a local poet who died suddenly in July .
The 'Hidden Nature Reading ' is to be in memory of Sue Wrinch , organiser of the Winchester Loose Muse group .
It will take place online and feature 10 Hampshire poets .
Members of Loose Muse were shocked by the news of Sue 's death .
A statement from the group says : `` Sue set up this monthly gathering in 2015 and booked a dazzling array of women poets and fiction writers to inspire members and provide a safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their work in open mic sessions .
`` Her enthusiasm and commitment provided a wealth of opportunities for developing writers .
Poets at this year ’ s online reading will be inspired by the theme of ‘ Hidden Nature ’ and each poet will read a poem of their own as well as one of their choice from Sue ’ s published collections Down by Wild Water and Stained Lips .
`` The event will be a tribute to Sue ’ s leadership and generosity by fellow poets who will always remember her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gottlieb of Heritage Open Days added : “ Sue previously organised a number of events for Winchester Heritage Open Days using the HODs themes including ‘ Extraordinary Women ’ and ‘ People Power ’ .
`` She inspired poets to produce wonderful new work and put together several vibrant performances for us at venues around the city . ''
The Hidden Nature reading will be live streamed on Sunday September 20 at 2 .
Places must be booked online .
Jenny McRobert who is organising the event said : “ We are honoured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and writers will be joining us to read including Liz Berry , Rebecca Goss , Susmita Bhattacharya , and Claire Fuller .
`` Also featured are local laureates Kathryn Bevis and Isabel Rogers . ''

The 'Hidden Nature Reading' is to be in memory of Sue Wrinch, organiser of the Winchester Loose Muse group. It will take place online and feature 10 Hampshire poets.
Members of Loose Muse were shocked by the news of Sue's death.
A statement from the group says: "Sue set up this monthly gathering in 2015 and booked a dazzling array of women poets and fiction writers to inspire members and provide a safe space for local women writers to share their work in open mic sessions.
"Her enthusiasm and commitment provided a wealth of opportunities for developing writers. Poets at this year’s online reading will be inspired by the theme of ‘Hidden Nature’ and each poet will read a poem of their own as well as one of their choice from Sue’s published collections Down by Wild Water and Stained Lips.
"The event will be a tribute to Sue’s leadership and generosity by fellow poets who will always remember her with gratitude and affection."
Nicky Gottlieb of Heritage Open Days added: “ Sue previously organised a number of events for Winchester Heritage Open Days using the HODs themes including ‘Extraordinary Women’ and ‘People Power’.
"She inspired poets to produce wonderful new work and put together several vibrant performances for us at venues around the city."
The Hidden Nature reading will be live streamed on Sunday September 20 at 2. Places must be booked online.
Jenny McRobert who is organising the event said: “We are honoured that a number of well known poets and writers will be joining us to read including Liz Berry, Rebecca Goss, Susmita Bhattacharya, and Claire Fuller.
"Also featured are local laureates Kathryn Bevis and Isabel Rogers."


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Eastleigh Museum: Face mask makers needed

Eastleigh museum are searching for volunteers to make face masks from home .
This is to ensure access to affordable @ @ @ @ @ with the masks being available for visitors on a donation basis at their shop .
@ @ @ @ @ hub run in a partnership between One Community , Hampshire Cultural Trust and Eastleigh Borough @ @ @ @ @ preserve Eastleigh 's heritage and put people in touch with local services , opportunities and @ @

This is to ensure access to affordable masks for local people, with the masks being available for visitors on a donation basis at their shop.
The museum is a community hub run in a partnership between One Community, Hampshire Cultural Trust and Eastleigh Borough Council.
They aim to preserve Eastleigh's heritage and put people in touch with local services, opportunities and events.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Winchester Musicals and Operatic Society helps Theatre Royal

WINCHESTER Musicals and Operatic Society is playing its part in saving the Theatre Royal .
The group has donated £5,000 to Play to the Crowd – the charity which runs the theatre in Jewry Street , Hat Fair and Playmakers .
Members of the society have performed there since 1984 and hope to do so in the future .
Chairman Suzanne Hall said : `` Winchester Musical Opera Society have performed each year at Theatre Royal Winchester since 1984 .
`` Since then , the society has worked with the theatre to bring song , dance and laughter to Winchester @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stage for our 2018 production of Singin ’ on the Rain .
`` WMOS wishes to support the theatre during this crisis , not only so we can be on stage again as soon as it is safe to do so , but so that this wonderful charity can keep on doing the incredible work it does for the Winchester community . ''
Play to the Crowd launched its appeal in July .
It needs to raise £225,000 by September to survive the health crisis .
To date more than £150,000 has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said : `` We ’ re delighted to receive this extremely generous contribution to our appeal from the Winchester Musicals and Operatic Society .
`` Community is at the very core of our purpose as a charity .
We exist to delight and unite by inspiring people to connect with and participate in live performance and our relationship with WMOS epitomises our beliefs .
`` To be supported by our community in our hour of need is extremely humbling .
Our thanks go to WMOS in helping us edge that step closer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t wait to welcome them back on to our historic stage in the future and will raise a glass to them when eventually the curtain rises again .
Cheers WMOS ! ''
Donations can be made via the theatre 's Crowdfunder page , via cheque or by calling the box office .

The group has donated £5,000 to Play to the Crowd – the charity which runs the theatre in Jewry Street, Hat Fair and Playmakers.
Members of the society have performed there since 1984 and hope to do so in the future.
Chairman Suzanne Hall said: "Winchester Musical Opera Society have performed each year at Theatre Royal Winchester since 1984.
"Since then, the society has worked with the theatre to bring song, dance and laughter to Winchester audiences, even making it rain on stage for our 2018 production of Singin’ on the Rain. "WMOS wishes to support the theatre during this crisis, not only so we can be on stage again as soon as it is safe to do so, but so that this wonderful charity can keep on doing the incredible work it does for the Winchester community."
Play to the Crowd launched its appeal in July.
It needs to raise £225,000 by September to survive the health crisis. To date more than £150,000 has been donated.
Deryck Newland, chief executive, said: "We’re delighted to receive this extremely generous contribution to our appeal from the Winchester Musicals and Operatic Society.
"Community is at the very core of our purpose as a charity. We exist to delight and unite by inspiring people to connect with and participate in live performance and our relationship with WMOS epitomises our beliefs.
"To be supported by our community in our hour of need is extremely humbling. Our thanks go to WMOS in helping us edge that step closer to our target.
"We can’t wait to welcome them back on to our historic stage in the future and will raise a glass to them when eventually the curtain rises again. Cheers WMOS!"
Donations can be made via the theatre's Crowdfunder page, via cheque or by calling the box office.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Keeping an eye on our protected birds

Keeping an eye on our protected birds

A GROUP that raises awareness of migratory birds is preparing for a busy few weeks .
Bird Aware Solent ( BAS ) comprises local authorities and conservation organisations that want to help secure the future of internationally-protected ducks , geese and wading birds .
They have a team of rangers who visit the places where people and the birds like to congregate , including Calshot .
A BAS spokesperson said : `` The rangers talk to visitors , highlighting the birds on the beach and why they return to the Solent every year .
`` With social distancing measures in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little trickier .
`` Rangers will be using an application on their mobile device to enable people to see magnified views of the birds going about their business . ''
Cllr Seán Woodward is leader of Fareham Borough Council and chairman of the Partnership for South Hampshire ( PfSH ) , which oversees Bird Aware Solent .
He said : `` Lockdown has created change for everyone , and the Bird Aware rangers are no exception .
`` We have been working closely with partner organisations and following government guidelines to make sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ job as effectively as possible for the return of the winter birds . ''
The rangers convey important messages about the need to protect birds such as brent geese and curlew .
`` Keep an eye out for the rangers on a beach near you and get involved by sticking to paths and keeping your distance from the birds , '' said the BAS spokesperson .

Bird Aware Solent (BAS) comprises local authorities and conservation organisations that want to help secure the future of internationally-protected ducks, geese and wading birds.
They have a team of rangers who visit the places where people and the birds like to congregate, including Calshot.
A BAS spokesperson said: "The rangers talk to visitors, highlighting the birds on the beach and why they return to the Solent every year.
"With social distancing measures in place their task this year is a little trickier.
"Rangers will be using an application on their mobile device to enable people to see magnified views of the birds going about their business."
Cllr Seán Woodward is leader of Fareham Borough Council and chairman of the Partnership for South Hampshire (PfSH), which oversees Bird Aware Solent.
He said: "Lockdown has created change for everyone, and the Bird Aware rangers are no exception.
"We have been working closely with partner organisations and following government guidelines to make sure that the ranger team can do their job as effectively as possible for the return of the winter birds."
The rangers convey important messages about the need to protect birds such as brent geese and curlew.
"Keep an eye out for the rangers on a beach near you and get involved by sticking to paths and keeping your distance from the birds," said the BAS spokesperson.
CONTACT ME
t: 023 8042 4503
e: chris.yandell@
dailyecho.co.uk


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--PHOTOS: Daily Echo Camera Club capture Hampshire

WITH just under a month to go until autumn hits the UK , the sun is slowly going back into @ @ @ @ @ not mean that animals , incredible skies and idllyic views have done the same .
@ @ @ @ @ our Daily Echo Camera Club have outdone themselves with another set of gorgeous moments in @ @ @ @ @ , a horse came to say hello , while in another , a smooth blend @ @ @ @ @ oranges made for the ultimate skyline .
Many of our talented members have brought the @ @ @ @ @ going on a stroll and captured birds , insects , and even a frog along @ @ @ @ @ our readers some Monday motivation , we have put together this double-page spread .
If @ @ @ @ @ have your photo in the paper , visit www.facebook.com/groups/decameraclub .

But that does not mean that animals, incredible skies and idllyic views have done the same.
As usual, members of our Daily Echo Camera Club have outdone themselves with another set of gorgeous moments in Hampshire.
In one instance, a horse came to say hello, while in another, a smooth blend of greens, yellows and oranges made for the ultimate skyline.
Many of our talented members have brought the camera out with them while going on a stroll and captured birds, insects, and even a frog along their way.
To bring our readers some Monday motivation, we have put together this double-page spread.
If you want the chance to have your photo in the paper, visit www.facebook.com/groups/decameraclub.
Members can share tips and advice.


thedailyecho--2020-08-31--Sick of clutter? Here's some top tips for organising and tidying your home

A professional organiser has revealed several top tips to help declutter your home .
They have shared the easy tips on how to keep your home neat and tidy .
Clean home , clear mind is a statement many UK households long to achieve .
However , keeping your home nice and organised can often feel like a never-ending task .
To help homeowners keep their home spick and span , Wren Kitchens has collaborated with professional organiser , Rhiannan Morgan to reveal the tips and tricks homeowners can follow to keep their abode as organised as possible .
Before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to tackle all the clutter .
When deciding whether to keep an item , ask yourself the following two questions ... Do I love it ?
Do I need it ?
If the answer is not yes to at least one of these questions , then it ’ s time to say goodbye .
Identify danger zones Often located near the front door , the living room , kitchen , and bedroom , every home has a hotspot for clutter .
Pretend you ’ re a visitor and walk around your home to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can help to make a video on your phone , because when you watch it back , you ’ ll likely notice clutter that you ’ re usually oblivious to .
Avoid putting items directly into your cupboards , and instead , place your items into baskets .
The basket system makes it easier to organise items into categories , meaning you can avoid a mismatched mayhem of cupboards .
Plus , by sorting your cupboards with baskets , you can access the things you need much easier , and it will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will need items When choosing where to store items , ask yourself when you ’ ll actually need to use them .
Considering the arrangement of the content in your cupboards can be helpful when keeping your home organised as you know where everything is placed , so you don ’ t need to rummage through all your cupboards when you need to find something .
Get into the habit of stock taking in your kitchen and rotating food once a week , ideally before you plan your meals and do your grocery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure you ’ re using up food within its shelf life , and it ’ ll help you to spend less , as you won ’ t buy any unnecessary duplicate food items .
Once you ’ ve organised your cupboards with baskets , sort your drawers out with dividers .
Dividers make it easier to sort your contents into categories , to stop everything merging into one big mess .
You can buy various drawer dividers , but there are lots of things that you can repurpose into dividers too , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perfume gift boxes and clean takeaway containers .
The kitchen pan lid chaos cupboard is the organisation headache for many homes .
Pan lids are an excellent example of where vertical sorting is a brilliant way to organise your items .
Racks like the one below are ideal for keeping pan lids , chopping boards and baking trays neat and sorted .
Turn your paperwork digital to avoid unnecessary clutter and store your instruction manuals together .
Visit www.wrenkitchens.com/blog/16-amazing-tips-organising-home for the full 16 tips and more information .

They have shared the easy tips on how to keep your home neat and tidy.
Clean home, clear mind is a statement many UK households long to achieve. However, keeping your home nice and organised can often feel like a never-ending task.
To help homeowners keep their home spick and span, Wren Kitchens has collaborated with professional organiser, Rhiannan Morgan to reveal the tips and tricks homeowners can follow to keep their abode as organised as possible.
Here are Rhiannan's top tips.
Tackle decluttering first
Before you organise your home, you need to tackle all the clutter. When deciding whether to keep an item, ask yourself the following two questions ...
Do I love it? Do I need it?
If the answer is not yes to at least one of these questions, then it’s time to say goodbye.
Identify danger zones
Often located near the front door, the living room, kitchen, and bedroom, every home has a hotspot for clutter.
Pretend you’re a visitor and walk around your home to look for clusters of clutter.
It can help to make a video on your phone, because when you watch it back, you’ll likely notice clutter that you’re usually oblivious to.
Organise your cupboards with baskets
Avoid putting items directly into your cupboards, and instead, place your items into baskets.
The basket system makes it easier to organise items into categories, meaning you can avoid a mismatched mayhem of cupboards.
Plus, by sorting your cupboards with baskets, you can access the things you need much easier, and it will be quicker to clean.
Consider when you will need items
When choosing where to store items, ask yourself when you’ll actually need to use them.
Considering the arrangement of the content in your cupboards can be helpful when keeping your home organised as you know where everything is placed, so you don’t need to rummage through all your cupboards when you need to find something.
Regularly stocktake and rotate
Get into the habit of stock taking in your kitchen and rotating food once a week, ideally before you plan your meals and do your grocery shop.
That way, you can ensure you’re using up food within its shelf life, and it’ll help you to spend less, as you won’t buy any unnecessary duplicate food items.
Subdivide your drawers
Once you’ve organised your cupboards with baskets, sort your drawers out with dividers.
Dividers make it easier to sort your contents into categories, to stop everything merging into one big mess.
You can buy various drawer dividers, but there are lots of things that you can repurpose into dividers too, including containers such as mobile phone boxes, perfume gift boxes and clean takeaway containers.
Use vertical sorting
The kitchen pan lid chaos cupboard is the organisation headache for many homes.
Pan lids are an excellent example of where vertical sorting is a brilliant way to organise your items.
Racks like the one below are ideal for keeping pan lids, chopping boards and baking trays neat and sorted.
Turn your paperwork digital to avoid unnecessary clutter and store your instruction manuals together.
Visit www.wrenkitchens.com/blog/16-amazing-tips-organising-home for the full 16 tips and more information.