Whether you want to run a (half) marathon, feast for a day or foster a cute pup, Fleet is all about the feel-good factor
Guilt-free shopping
Ex-teacher, Kate Cottrell opened zero waste shop Fleet Scoop at the beginning of the year. It sells everything from biodegradable beeswax wraps and bamboo toothbrushes; to locally-roasted coffee.
Customers bring old, clean, containers - glass jars, paper bags, lunchboxes - to fill up with dried food items, such as pasta, rice, dried fruit and 'just enough' spice for the evening meal. Don't miss the chocolate covered raisins and ready-to-cook popcorn for a great snack!
Kate aims to provide items that are chemical-free, vegan, ethically -sourced and sustainable - reducing the impact on our living environment: "I really hope that we can persuade others to make tiny changes so that we can leave our world in a healthy state for future generations."
Make a run for it
The original "pre-London" Half Marathon returns on 15 March 2020, with entries opening the end of September. The Fleet Half Marathon has been around since 1982. To date more than 150,000 runners have finished the race. There is also a junior mini mile for eight to 16 year-olds that starts at 10.45am.
The gently undulating course is fast and traffic-free with more than 150 marshals cheering runners on. It is organised by the Fleet & Crookham Athletic Club and supported by major running brands, and local businesses.
Foster a pup!
Chimney Farm International Dog Rescue helps dogs who have been let down by humans and have had a sad start to their lives - many living in shelters or on the streets. "We are based in and around Fleet and rehome dogs from the UK and overseas," explains rehoming manager and rescue coordinator, Tracey Lambert. The charity is always on the look-out for people who can help - whether it's driving, donating, or people who can give the dogs a temporary home.
Every dog receives extensive publicity on the Chimney Facebook page, which has more than 27,000 followers. Most rescue dogs find a home very quickly, but some shyer dogs take a little longer to adapt to their new lives. Fosterers need to be committed, patient and most of all loving.
Get a re-style
Personal stylist Natasha Edge, of Appearance and Attitude, offers a range of services - from colour analysis and image consultation; to wardrobe detox and personal shopping. "I believe if you have confidence in your image, you can reduce stress, time and money and be comfortable in the knowledge you are looking fabulous!" explains Natasha.
Natasha has partnered with local businesses in Hartley Wintney and Fleet: "It's really important to me to support the local businesses and both towns have some great shops.
"I love my one-to-one work and have great fun with my clients! It's a joy to see how helping them to find their perfect look not only opens doors for them, but makes them more confident and happier. What could be better than that?"
appearanceandattitude.com | facebook.com/natashaedge19 | instagram.com/tashappandatt
Feed your soul
Fleet Food Festival was a huge success in June 2019. The stalls offered everything from biltong, local gin, olive oil and an amazing selection of hot food - including the popular Greek food stall.
"It was wonderful to see so many people making a day out of the event, and even visiting both days to enjoy the great atmosphere, live music, cookery demonstrations, market stalls and entertainment," says Emma Molyneux, chair of the Fleet Business Improvement District who organised the event. "We have had some amazing feedback. One retailer in Fleet told us that people had travelled all the way from Southampton.
"Fleet is blessed with higher than average independent retailers and restaurants, they are working tirelessly against the well-documented, intensifying, pressures on the high street."
Throw it back to the 80s
It's time to dig out the leg warmers and metallic gym shorts to show the kids how it's done at Disco Skate at The Harlington. All ages are invited to take to the natural wood floor and bring the roller disco to Fleet! The £5 on-the-door entry includes skate hire (so no excuses!) and there's a bar - if you need a little Dutch courage.
The Harlington, Fleet Road, Fleet, GU51 4BY, from 6pm - 9pm on 20 September, 18 October, 15 November 2019 and 17 January 2020.
Try something new…
Hampshire's new Virtual Reality (VR) experience, Chimera VR, offers the latest in VR technology and gaming using Oculus Rift Headsets, Nvidia 1080ti graphics cards and Leap motion movement sensors. Go solo or choose from multiplayer escape rooms, shoot 'em ups and sci-fi. Walk-ins are welcome, but bookings are advisable.
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