Author: Dan Clarke

Introduction Earlier this year, on January 29th, we enjoyed a lively and inspiring evening with David Gilliver, who joined us via Zoom from his home studio in Scotland. David captivated us with a fascinating presentation on crafting dioramas, using tiny figurines, everyday household props, and a generous dose of imagination[…]

The Winchester Motorcycle Club is set to hold four motocross meetings this year at Whaddon Farm in Owslebury. These events will feature modern solo motorcycles, twin-shock bikes, Evo classes, and Sidecars. Follow this link for more details: Winchester Motorcycle Club On April 18th, a rather gloomy Good Friday, eight enthusiastic[…]

On March 17th, twelve enthusiastic members gathered for the Out and About Event at Southsea Seafront. It was a delight to welcome some fresh faces, and despite the brisk chill in the air, the morning was graced with enchanting clouds and captivating light. The seafront has undergone a real transformation.[…]

One of the first flowers of the new year, snowdrops, reminds us that spring is just around the corner. Known by their Greek name, ‘Galanthus,’ which translates to ‘milk flower,’ snowdrops symbolise spring, purity, and religion. With more than 2,500 varieties, they vary in height from 7 to 30 cm[…]

A group of eleven members went to The Brickworks Museum at Swanwick. It was hosting a special event dedicated to the world of transport; there was a collection of classic and vintage cars, a bus, two traction engines, live music, craft stalls, and model railways, offering a plethora of captivating[…]

Four members travelled to Cheriton to photograph a unique ‘multi-period event ‘commemorating the 380th anniversary of the Battle of Cheriton. This event brought together re-enactors from various historical periods, including the Sealed Knot, the Medieval Knights Society, the Napoleonic Society, and the American Civil War Society. “In 1644, the Battle[…]

Established in 1952, Hambledon Vineyard is England’s Oldest Commercial Vineyard. It has numerous sites spread over 200 acres, all planted with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, the three grape varieties most commonly used in the production of Champagne.  They have 100,000 established vines pruned by hand, and the grapes[…]

Old Portsmouth, the original town at the harbour entrance, is a treasure trove of history. Founded in the 1180s, it was a place where the city’s spices used to enter, hence the name Spice Island. The area is dotted with historical buildings and features, including the well-preserved old defences and[…]

Mottisfont is a romantic house and gallery set in stunning riverside gardens near Romsey, Hampshire. The beauty of these gardens is truly inspiring and a sight to behold. The walled garden at Mottisfont is a true treasure, home to the exclusive National Collection of Pre-1900 Shrub Roses. These ‘old-fashioned’ roses[…]