Vix Hobbs is one of Bitterne Park and St Denys’ rare professional ‘Ing-ists’: til-ing and restor-ing (The Butcher’s Hook for one!), garden-ing, tutor-ing (HE), act-ing, sing-ing, writ-ing, workshop-ing (drama & theatre)… you name it, when it comes to ‘ing-ing’ Vix could well be your person! She says she’s been here for just over three years, and still marvels at the view from Cobden Bridge – either on the water or off.
The Qs & the As
What’s your link with Bitterne Park?
Cobden Bridge and many good friends.
What’s your earliest memory of the area?
Black Jack Oak – the American Indian shop that I visited when I was about nine or 10: I never knew where it was, just that it was an amazing place. Wish it were still there.
How could it be better?
The continuing growth of Bitterne Park Triangle and independent businesses that cater for the community.
Tell us something we probably didn’t know already about Bitterne Park
It has one of the few remaining Carters of Poole butcher’s ceramic panels – there is only one other that Poole Pottery (what Carters became) are aware of and it is hidden behind a stud wall.
‘If Southampton is only defined by West Quay and shopping in generic shops, then it is a poorer place’
What’s good about the wider city?
Eclectic and creative inhabitants all with a mind to encourage Southampton and its communities to engage with the city and make it a more vibrant, less homogenous place to live.
Southampton: points for improvement?
As above really – if Southampton is only defined by West Quay and shopping in generic shops, then it is a poorer place, financially and culturally. It needs a cultural quarter that truly reflects the city’s people and not the council’s collusion with apparent national and global norms.
What’s your passion in life?
Community, education, inclusion and development are fundamental passions, along with music, good ales and good food. Spaces to play, walk and create.
How do you put bread on your table?
Various Th-Ings.
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What has your career taught you?
My career has been fragmented and varied, reflecting clear points in my own development and change in circumstances. What have I learned? To be open to new learning and experiences, to have a go at something new, take a chance. Lastly, that people at work are funny creatures.
What really gets your goat?
Narrow-mindedness, bigotry, elitism, people who don’t use bins or their indicators (not optional extras!) and things not being put back where they belong.
How do you relax?
Rowing, walking, knitting and a damn good film.
What’s your favourite dish?
Love food, so impossible to call.
Which is your favourite pub?
Currently, the Butcher’s Hook
What’s on your iPod?
An eclectic mix which makes me giggle on occasions.
Can you recommend a really good read?
The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin
What’s a great day out?
One with friends, fresh air and free conversation
Tell us a secret
Hmmm… No, never tell
Tell us a joke
The ultimate misogynist’s joke:
Why do women have periods?
Because they deserve them.
(You didn’t request a good joke or one that was funny!)
Finally, what would be another great question for other Bitterne Parkers?
What other shops does Bitterne Triangle need?
Thanks so much for taking part!
Tune in next time when another Bitterne Parker answers our searching questions. But before then, do you know a Bitterne Parker we really should feature? If so, please nominate them by emailing us using the contact form, and we'll do our best. No promises, mind.
Read about other Bitterne Parkers
iPod pic under CC2 by Ben K Adams