Sophie Day

Andy Bowditch’s photograph of a sunrise over the countryside, captioned “Another glorious sunrise over the mistletoe tree,” has been selected as the Romsey Advertiser Camera Club’s Picture of the Week. The weekly feature showcases images submitted by members of the free-to-join local camera club.

Mark Ryan’s photograph of Canon Street in Winchester, showing cyclists travelling between brick houses and chimney pots, has been selected as the Hampshire Chronicle Camera Club’s Picture of the Week. The article explains that the club publishes a favourite reader-submitted image each week and is free to join through Facebook.

A four-bedroom detached house in Manningford Close, Winchester, is being marketed by Winkworth Winchester for £975,000. The extended property includes a study, utility room, kitchen/breakfast room, dining room and a vaulted sitting room with a wood-burning stove and garden access. It also offers four bedrooms, driveway parking, a garage and an established rear garden with a paved terrace.

Hursley Road between Main Road and Compton Down Lane is expected to close around the clock from Monday, August 24, for up to 10 days while MGJV carries out work. Hampshire County Council has authorized the closure for up to six months if necessary, though completion is expected within 10 days. A diversion will run via Winchester Road, Otterbourne Hill, Main Road, Otterbourne Road and the A3090, with access to nearby properties maintained.

Descendants of engineer William Walker visited Winchester Cathedral to honour his role in saving the building from collapse. Between 1906 and 1911, Walker worked underwater beneath the cathedral, placing thousands of concrete bags to stabilise its foundations and prevent further subsidence. His descendants viewed his memorial bust and learned about the engineering project, while cathedral chaplain Rev Canon Julian Poppleton said Walker’s legacy continues to inspire visitors and younger generations.

Kiln Lane in Otterbourne will close between Brambridge Park Garden Centre and St Matthew's Church Ruins for five nights from 10pm to 6am, beginning Tuesday, August 25, to allow Xeiad to jet-wash a culvert. Drivers will be diverted via the B3335, A3090, Otterbourne Road and Main Road. The closure order will remain in effect for up to six months or until the work is completed, and access arrangements will be provided for affected premises.

Wellhouse Lane in Headbourne Worthy, near the Kings Barton development, is scheduled to close from Monday, August 24, for work by Kamm Civil Engineering Ltd. The closure is expected to last up to 34 days, with a signed diversion via Andover Road North, Andover Road, Worthy Road, Bedford Lane and Springvale Road. The legal order will remain in place for six months in case of delays, while access to nearby premises will be maintained where reasonably possible.

Second-year BA (Hons) event management students at the University of Winchester raised more than £4,500 through a series of coursework-related fundraising events. The money and awareness supported Emmaus, CoppaFeel, OpenSight, The Winchester Beacon, and Naomi and Jack’s. Events included a quiz night that raised £2,000, a Wild West-themed evening, a concert that generated £1,800 for OpenSight, and CoppaSlice, a cancer-awareness event. Students and charity representatives praised the events for developing practical skills, strengthening community engagement and supporting local good causes.

The History of Rock, a live show celebrating major rock acts and anthems from the 1970s and 1980s, will be performed at Theatre Royal Winchester on Thursday, September 10, at 7:30 p.m. The concert will feature songs associated with Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, KISS, The Who and other influential bands, performed by a live band. Tickets and further information are available through the theatre.

Hampshire County Council has approved new parking restrictions in South Wonston and Micheldever. Downs Road outside South Wonston Primary School will have weekday stopping restrictions from 8am to 9am and 3pm to 4pm, while two sections of Church Street in Micheldever will prohibit waiting at all times. The order takes effect on August 25 and consolidates existing parking regulations and variation orders.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service welcomed new UK government statutory guidance governing the sale and distribution of disposable barbecues, saying it could help reduce wildfires. The service noted that the measures do not prohibit their use and urged people not to use barbecues they have already bought, particularly in outdoor spaces. It also warned that cigarettes, glass bottles and vehicles parked on dry grass can ignite fires, and advised against bonfires, campfires and barbecues in the countryside during dry spells.

Former Premier League footballer Jack Plummer will host a gala dinner at Southampton’s Utilita Bowl on September 26 to raise funds for Naomi and Jack’s, a charity providing hospice care and support for children, young adults and families across central Southern England. Tickets cost £90 and include a three-course meal, drinks, auctions, a DJ and guest speakers.

Kingsmead Day Nursery in Chandler’s Ford is recruiting staff at different career stages, including experienced practitioners, career changers and apprentices. Employees describe the nursery as warm, supportive and community-focused, while Grandir UK provides funded training, career progression and wellbeing initiatives. The nursery has also been fully refurbished with updated indoor and outdoor play areas, including a bike track and themed activity zones.

Haydown Farm, a property in Nether Wallop with origins dating to the early 16th century, is on the market for £1.35 million. The four-bedroom farmhouse includes period features such as oak beams, parquet flooring and an inglenook fireplace, along with gardens, a swimming pool, paddock and access to the Wallop Brook across approximately three acres. The property also includes agricultural barns and outbuildings exceeding 3,500 square feet, which have planning consent for conversion into a residential dwelling.

Historian and broadcaster Professor David Olusoga will give a talk at Winchester Guildhall on November 14 exploring the global history of British tea. The presentation will connect more than 350 years of British history with China, India, the Americas and other regions, covering events including the Boston Tea Party, the Opium Wars and the activities of the British East India Company. It will also examine industrial espionage and migration within India, using art, photography and humour, followed by a question-and-answer session and book signing.

Test Valley Borough Council has secured £2.7 million to buy 44.5 hectares at Woodington Farm in Wellow, a former pig farm. Around 34 hectares will be transformed into a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace with new habitats, trees, walking routes and improved access. The scheme, delivered with the Solent Mitigation Partnership, aims to reduce recreational pressure on the New Forest, address nutrient pollution linked to housing development and support sustainable growth.

Theatre Royal Winchester and arts charity Play to the Crowd are inviting writers and directors to apply for a creative speed dating evening on September 14, 2026, as part of the Unwritten development programme. Six writers and six directors will hold short conversations to form creative partnerships, with resulting monologues or duologues performed at a November Scratch Night. One piece will be chosen for further development and staged at a February Showcase. Applications close on August 28.

East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds is supporting Gold Traders UK founder Jon White’s campaign for stronger consumer protections in the precious metals market. The campaign seeks mandatory disclosure of per-gram prices, written estimates for postal transactions, tighter controls on mobile buying events, limits on large cash payments and identity checks for sellers. Hinds has submitted a written parliamentary question asking whether the Government will require gold buyers to display their prices clearly, while the campaign argues that current UK law leaves sellers vulnerable to unfair offers.

Winchester Road in Romsey will close overnight from 10pm to 6am for two nights beginning Saturday, August 15, while Xeiad inspects a rail bridge. The closure covers the section between Botley Road and Bridge Road, with a diversion route provided. Hampshire County Council granted the closure, and Xeiad will notify affected residents and maintain access to nearby premises.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park near Petersfield is marking its 50th anniversary with special events, including a woodland trail, commemorative exhibition, volunteer flowerbed project and a new natural play area. A ceremonial copper beech tree was planted by Hampshire County Council representatives. The park was created in 1976 by combining Butser Hill and Queen Elizabeth Forest, and its visitor centre was opened by Queen Elizabeth II. Hampshire County Council manages the site with Forestry England and the South Downs National Park Authority, with partners highlighting its importance for nature, wildlife, recreation and access to the national park.

Professor Ian Pickup has been appointed the University of Winchester’s next vice-chancellor and is expected to take up the role in early December. He joins from the Open University, where he is pro vice-chancellor for learning, teaching and student experience. University governors praised his academic leadership, collaborative approach and commitment to students, while Pickup said he would build on Winchester’s strengths in teaching, student experience, civic engagement and widening participation.

North Baddesley Community Library has reopened at All Saints Church after extensive improvements, with volunteers protecting, cleaning and replacing the book collection. Children from North Baddesley Infant School Holiday Club visited, took part in a book hunt and celebrated a favourite dinosaur book. The library also runs a jigsaw exchange and announced plans to sell surplus puzzles at Romsey Market.

Fifteen Explorer Scouts from Winchester completed a nine-day Interrail journey through Spain, France and the Netherlands, visiting Barcelona, Paris and Amsterdam. They toured major attractions including Park Güell, Camp Nou, the Sagrada Família, the Eiffel Tower and Versailles, and visited Efteling theme park near Tilburg. Despite cancelled rail services, unfamiliar transport systems and other logistical challenges, all participants returned safely to Winchester. Organized by the local Explorer Scouts group, the expedition helped the teenagers build confidence, independence and problem-solving skills.

Hampshire County Council has applied for a licence to sell alcohol on the premises at the first floor of Serle's House on Southgate Street, Winchester, from 10am to 11pm daily. The application supports plans to make the building available for weddings and other civil ceremonies. Representations can be submitted to Winchester City Council by August 20, with the application and responses to be considered through the council's licensing process.

Clover Dental & Implant Centre in Fleming Avenue, North Baddesley, will host a free community open day on September 19 from 10am to 5pm. Visitors can receive consultations, learn about the practice’s monthly payment membership plan and access event-only treatment offers, while enjoying live music, food stalls, games, competitions and community activities.

Students at St Swithun’s School in Winchester achieved the school’s best A-level results in a non-pandemic year since 2013, with 94% of grades at A*–B, 68% at A* or A, and 27% at A*. Three-quarters of students achieved AAB or higher, while more than 10% secured places at Oxford or Cambridge for the fifth consecutive year. Students gained admission to leading UK and international universities, and several high achievers were named, including Claire Chen, Miya Galvin, Lauren Koh, Hattie Sabben-Clare, Amy Hofmann and Lois Macdonald.

Alton College students achieved a 92 per cent A-level pass rate, with 42 per cent gaining grades A* to B and 19 per cent achieving A* or A. English language and art and design recorded 100 per cent pass rates. The college also reported 100 per cent pass rates across its T-level and vocational programmes, including particularly strong results in education and early years, film and TV production, and music performance and production. HSDC principal and chief executive Kurt Hintz attributed the results to students' ambition, resilience and hard work, as well as staff support. Leavers are progressing to university, apprenticeships and employment.

The haematology team at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital has been reaccredited with Myeloma UK's Clinical Service Excellence Programme award, achieving an excellent rating in all 10 assessment categories. The programme evaluates care from referrals and diagnosis through end-of-life support. Myeloma UK particularly praised the hospital's Myeloma Walk and Talk sessions, which combine exercise, mental wellbeing support and peer interaction. Hospital staff and a patient highlighted the team's compassionate, personalised support for people living with incurable myeloma.

The South Downs National Park’s Visitor Giving Scheme raised more than £16,000 for conservation projects over the past year, taking total fundraising since its launch seven years ago to over £70,000. Nine tourism and local businesses invite visitors to make voluntary donations, with funds directed to the South Downs National Park Trust. Contributions have supported tree planting, wildflower meadows, hedgerows, path improvements and access to nature for children. Participating businesses and park representatives say the scheme strengthens visitors’ connection with the landscape and supports long-term conservation.

The Legend of Springsteen, a tribute concert recreating Bruce Springsteen’s stadium-show atmosphere and featuring songs including “Born in the USA,” “Glory Days” and “Born to Run,” will perform at Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday, September 5, at 7:30 p.m. The production features internationally experienced musicians and comes from the team behind the Ultimate Eagles tribute.

Wickham Festival organiser Peter Chegwyn described the latest four-day event as a major success, helped by good weather, strong performances and the festival's new, more spacious site. Attendance reached up to 7,000, with acts including the Saw Doctors, the Proclaimers, Curtis Stigers, Ferocious Dog and the Dhol Foundation. Chegwyn said only minor improvements would be made following attendee feedback, while the festival's family-friendly atmosphere, affordable children’s tickets and not-for-profit model would remain central. The next festival is scheduled for July 29 to August 1.

Theatre Royal Winchester will host A Night to Remember Motown Show at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, September 4. The performance will celebrate the music of 1960s Detroit, including songs associated with Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations and The Supremes. Bizzi Dixon, a former finalist on The Voice UK and performer in Thriller Live, will headline alongside the Motown Divas.

Paralympic gold medallist Monica Vaughan has been appointed patron of Dementia Support Hampshire & IOW. Drawing on her experience caring for her partner Lynn, Vaughan will help raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage community engagement across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Chief executive Helen Hamblen said Vaughan’s sporting achievements and firsthand understanding of dementia caregiving would strengthen the charity’s efforts to support people with dementia and their families.

Alpine Snowsports Aldershot has received Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award for the fifth consecutive year, recognising its strong visitor reviews and customer experience. Managed by Everyone Active on behalf of Rushmoor Borough Council, the centre attracts about 29,000 visitors annually and offers lessons, racing, recreational sessions, inclusive activities and holiday programmes. A refurbishment programme is adding structural upgrades, new viewing facilities and ski matting, while several school and regional competitions are scheduled. Centre manager Clive Marshall and councillor Sophie Porter praised staff and said continued council investment would support the slope’s long-term future.

Fareham Meon Rotary Club has welcomed Marion Lawless, Sue Song and Jim Roberson as new members at the start of its 45th year. President David Fawcett said their skills and enthusiasm would strengthen the club’s volunteer base, community support and educational outreach, noting that three simultaneous new members is unprecedented in the club’s recent history. The new members bring backgrounds in optometry, business, holistic therapies, public services, teaching and American football, and expressed enthusiasm about contributing locally.

Catherine Hedges celebrated her 110th birthday with a garden party at Challoner House Care Home in Chandler's Ford. The event included music from singer Sarah Hobbs and a visit from Eastleigh Mayor Richard Gomer, who helped her blow out the candles. Hedges, born in County Limerick in 1916, credited home-cooked food, staying active and enjoying the outdoors for her longevity; she also received another birthday card from The King.

Winchester City Council’s public electric vehicle charging network recorded 479,382 kWh of electricity use between April 2025 and March 2026, its highest annual total since launching. The council has installed 82 charging points in public car parks since 2021 as part of its Greener Faster campaign and Carbon Neutrality Action Plan. Charging partner Mer has been taken over by Be.EV, which will update branding, pricing, payment systems and customer support while offering lower off-peak rates and a monthly discount subscription.

A charity afternoon tea organized by Soroptimist International of Winchester and District raised £565 for SolarAid’s work providing solar lamps in rural African communities. The project is currently focused on Malawi, where solar lighting has expanded from homes and clinics to villages and is expected to reach entire districts. SolarAid fundraising director Richard Turner attended, shared progress updates and demonstrated construction kits that the club may use with local schools. The club is also supporting Mayi Walas, or “Sunny Mummies,” women entrepreneurs who sell and maintain the lights through Lend with Care.

The Romsey Shanty Crew performed sea shanties at Northlands House’s summer fete in Southampton, raising £72.50 for Testwood Lakes Sailability, a Totton charity offering dinghy sailing to people with physical and learning disabilities. With founder and captain Nick Tann absent, the performers adopted the name “Romsey Shanty Crew Mutineers.” The event featured singing, clapping and audience participation, while the charity was also noted as a recipient of the 2025 King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is running free Nature’s Knock-in sessions every Sunday at Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve near Totton. The activities include pond dipping, meadow sweeping and birdwatching, with equipment and guidance provided by rangers. No booking is required, and the programme is intended to make nature exploration accessible while strengthening community engagement with conservation.

Wessex Sculptors will open their Black Barn studio in Bramdean, near Alresford, during Hampshire Open Studios. Visitors can view figurative and abstract sculptures made from materials including wood, clay, plaster, stone, wire, ciment fondu and 3D printing. The group, founded around sculptor John Souter, will also offer workshops covering techniques such as botanical plaster relief, linocut printing, carving, stained-glass making and clay portraiture. The studio will be open from 11am to 5pm on August 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 and 31.

A modern three-bedroom house in Elizabeth Place, Winchester, is being marketed by Winkworth Winchester for £695,000. The three-level property offers approximately 1,415 square feet of accommodation, including a contemporary kitchen and dining room, sitting room with bi-fold doors, three bedrooms, a family bathroom, cloakroom and lower-ground-floor garage. It also has an enclosed, low-maintenance rear garden with paved seating areas and artificial lawn.

Claire Treacy’s photograph of the bandstand in Romsey Memorial Park, framed by red and purple flowers, has been selected as the Romsey Advertiser Camera Club’s Picture of the Week. The article highlights the park’s tranquil summer setting and invites readers to join the club, which is free to participate in through Facebook.

The White Horse pub in Otterbourne will host its tenth annual Music Festival and Family Fun Day on Sunday, August 30, beginning at midday. The free event will feature live music, stone-baked pizzas, a barbecue, cocktails from the locally supplied V Rum Bar, and family activities including a bouncy castle, face painting, garden games and ice cream. Operations manager Kris Anderson said the festival has grown from a small community gathering into a popular annual tradition.

A £200,000 soft play centre has opened at Fareham Leisure Centre after being developed by Everyone Active on behalf of Fareham Borough Council. The facility includes a multi-level play structure, slides, trampolines, a ball pool, sensory features and dedicated areas for different age groups, along with a new laser tag experience. Council and Everyone Active representatives said the investment would provide an inclusive and engaging leisure option for more local families.

Bishop’s Waltham Rotary Club has appointed Ian Treveil and Jason Rule as co-presidents, succeeding Debbie Walker, with Tim Millier named president-elect. The club is continuing its support for Rotary International’s End Polio Now campaign, preparing its annual Christmas Shoebox appeal for disadvantaged children in Eastern Europe, and promoting membership. It also recently supported the Young Carers Festival and hosted local MP Danny Chambers as a speaker.

Butler Country Estates, a family-run producer near Winchester, has received a three-star rating in the 2026 Great Taste Awards for its Hampshire Smoked Trout Fillet. The trout is raised in Hampshire chalk streams, then hand-cured and hot-smoked over apple, oak and hickory. Owner Richard Butler said the award recognised the care taken by the business and its team. The product is sold through the company’s website, Winchester farm shop, farmers’ markets and food festivals across Hampshire and nearby counties.

Oakhanger Beer Festival will return near Selborne for its fourth year, running over two evenings on September 4 and 5. The event will offer more than 12 UK ales alongside craft lagers, IPAs, ciders, wine, prosecco and locally sourced food from The Hanger Freehouse. Live performances will include Call Me Ishmael, Blue Eyed Soul, Tom Key, Andrea Ojano and DJs Strokes. Tickets cost £12.50 and include entry, a souvenir pint glass and a pint, with proceeds supporting Oakhanger Village Hall.

YMCA Fairthorne Group has been named among the UK’s Best Big Places to Work for 2026, appearing as one of 25 charitable organizations on the list and one of only two YMCAs from the England and Wales federation to receive recognition. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight charity was cited for its employee wellbeing, engagement and workplace culture. Chief executive Phillipa Spicer said the achievement reflected the contribution of staff and volunteers and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to improving its workplace. The charity supports children, young people and families through accommodation services, early years childcare, outdoor education and community programs.

Strange Times Quest Community art group will host an Open Studio exhibition at St Mary's Chapel Hall in Kings Worthy from August 28 to 31, featuring work by 50 artists. The event will include a colourful summer landscape inspired by David Hockney, serving as a backdrop for a butterfly display featuring species found in Hampshire and more exotic varieties. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor coffee and cake during the exhibition.

Winchester hairdresser Jonny Engstrom, cutting and salon director at Guy Kremer Salon, has been named a Hairdressing Legend at the WELOVE Purple Hearts Awards in Dorset. He has also achieved State Registration through The Hair Council, a significant professional accountability milestone in the largely unregulated UK hairdressing sector. Engstrom says registration, education and continuing professional development are essential to raising standards, while WELOVE promotes these measures through mentoring, qualifications and advocacy.

Skye, Amelie and Piper from the 1st and 2nd Romsey Rainbow units have received Girlguiding’s highest award for Rainbows after completing activities such as map-making, wildlife projects and Teddy Passports. At an end-of-term celebration, they presented their Rainbow journeys through a poem, poster and photographs. Leaders Elaine Grimwood and Elizabeth Kennedy praised their commitment, creativity and growth over the two-year programme.

Russell Oppenheimer, a former senior Hampshire County councillor and civil servant, has moved from a decade in local government into teaching French, German and citizenship at a secondary school near the East Hampshire border. Supported by the charity Now Teach, the 51-year-old said the career change has been rewarding and offers a direct opportunity to influence young people. His varied background includes senior Whitehall roles, retail and trade directorships across Asia and Europe, and leadership positions at Hampshire County Council, including responsibility for highways, countryside, culture, communities, health and wellbeing. He also helped establish the Hampshire Forest Partnership in 2022.

Winchester-based design studio Peagreen has launched The Last Dance, a collection of colorful, patterned and personalized coffins made in partnership with UK manufacturer Parley Green. Founder and creative director Izzy Matthews said the project was inspired by her difficulty finding a coffin that represented her late husband, while a customized coffin made for designer Lisa’s mother-in-law further shaped the collection. The range debuted at the National Funeral Exhibition 2026 and received positive feedback from funeral professionals.

Magician Matt Homer will perform his close-up magic show The Gentleman Deals at the Theatre Royal Winchester on Tuesday, September 1, at 7:30 p.m. The event will open the venue’s new autumn-winter season and form part of its Atrium Live! series. The show includes a meet-and-greet and is recommended for audiences aged 12 and over.

Cancer survivor Paul Heanes has donated £5,000 worth of chilled, frozen, canned and packaged food to the Carroll Centre food pantry in Stanmore since June 2024. He began by spending £500 on food shortly after undergoing major cancer surgery and made another £500 donation after completing chemotherapy. He continues to shop for the pantry, which supports local people facing food insecurity.

Friends of King Alfred Buses has made substantial progress restoring its 1950 Leyland Olympic JAA 708, which was badly damaged by fire in December 2023. Led by engineer Andrew Crockett, the project has reused original plans and salvaged components, reassembling the frame and fitting overhauled axles, brakes, steering, radiator and driveline. The partially rebuilt bus will be displayed publicly for the first time at the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum’s summer open weekend in Lathalmond, Fife, on August 22 and 23.

Naomi and Jack’s, a children’s hospice serving babies, children and young adults across central southern England, has been shortlisted for Medium Charity of the Year at the Third Sector Awards 2026. The hospice supported about 700 families and delivered 400 admissions over the past 11 months. Chief executive Mark Smith said the nomination recognizes the staff’s commitment as the charity approaches its 30th anniversary. The recently rebranded organization has held an outstanding Care Quality Commission rating since 2016 and operates a specialist Duchenne muscular dystrophy clinic at Jack’s Place.

Theatre Royal Winchester will host The Big Saturday Sing on August 22 from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free, walk-in outdoor event will feature performances by several Hampshire choirs, including groups supporting neuro-disabled performers and charitable causes. Refreshments will be available at the theatre, and further information can be obtained from the venue’s website or by phone.

Michelmersh Silver Band marked its 140th anniversary with a gala concert at Romsey Abbey attended by the mayors of Test Valley and Romsey and MP Caroline Nokes. The programme combined performances by the senior and training bands with a retrospective of the ensemble’s origins in 1886 as Michelmersh Temperance Band. Highlights included arrangements ranging from the Back to the Future theme to works by Elgar, Gabrieli and Wagner, with the concert concluding in a standing ovation and a grand finale featuring cornetist Wayne Landen on the abbey organ.

The Romsey Show is introducing additional equine flu precautions for its September 12 event, particularly because of the prevalence of the disease in the New Forest. All attending equines must be vaccinated, with equine passports and health declarations subject to checks. The event will also feature livestock and equine classes, including new local and New Forest beef and dairy categories, while advance ticket buyers can receive discounts.

Stagecoach South is offering free bus travel across Hampshire this summer for children aged five to 15 as part of the Great British Summer Savings scheme. The promotion aims to help families visit attractions without fuel or parking costs, with highlighted routes serving destinations including Marwell Zoo, the Watercress Line, 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Finkley Down Farm and Hinton Ampner.

Amanda Mpanga, a 20-year-old digital software development T Level student at South Hampshire College Group, has received the £1,000 Winchester Excellence Scholarship from the University of Winchester. The award recognizes her dedication, teamwork, independent study and substantial progress despite beginning the course without programming experience. Mpanga plans to begin university after a gap year, with the scholarship helping support her studies.

Bright Horizons Chilworth Day Nursery and Preschool held its third annual Chilworthfest, a week-long celebration featuring music, face painting, mocktail-making, wand-making, role play, dancing and other creative activities. Nearly 50 family members attended a Stay and Play session, while parents praised the nursery staff and the welcoming, colourful atmosphere. Nursery manager Charlotte said the event helps children express themselves, build confidence and enjoy time with their community.

Hampshire Hospitals Charity’s third Colour Run at Harewood Forest, followed by a community afternoon at Wherwell Cricket Club, raised more than £10,000. Hundreds participated in the event, which marked 100 years of care at Andover War Memorial Hospital. The charity said final totals were still being collected and will announce how the funds are used after donations and sponsorships are finalised. Previous fundraising supported dementia-patient activity resources and folding beds for families, while the charity aims to raise at least £1 million annually for hospital improvements and services beyond NHS provision.

Drax Gallery in Winchester will host a free evening event on August 6 featuring Chilean painter Maria Luisa Hernandez. Visitors will be able to view her paintings, meet her, and learn how her experiences in Chile and the UK have influenced her work, which focuses heavily on natural light. The gallery also exhibits photography and paintings by established and emerging artists.

Southern Water says it has recovered more than 12.5 million litres of water—enough to fill five Olympic-sized swimming pools—since a hosepipe ban began in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight on July 10. The company repaired 3,471 leaks, a 21% increase over the January-to-June period, with many underground leaks fixed within 24 hours. It is using leak-detection dogs, fibre-optic network trials and other technology while urging the public to report urgent water bursts during the ongoing heatwave and drought conditions.

Children aged five to 15 can travel free on participating bus services across England during August, with Hampshire’s major operators—including Stagecoach, Go South Coast and First Bus—taking part. Hampshire County Council says the scheme will help families access attractions and activities during the summer holidays, while encouraging more people to use buses. The initiative complements the £3 adult fare cap and is intended to ease pressure on household budgets.

Read Easy Winchester celebrated adult learners who have improved their reading skills through its free, one-to-one Turning Pages coaching programme. At the group’s annual event at St Peter’s Church, patron and author Claire Fuller presented certificates to readers including Barry Tudgay. Winchester Mayor Jamie Scott praised the learners and volunteer coaches, while team leader David Richardson highlighted the group’s continued efforts to improve adult literacy in the Winchester area.

Volunteers from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance gave Winchester Ladies Probus a presentation on emergency rescues, CPR training and the service’s critical-care operations. The charity operates 365 days a year using public donations, trusts and foundations, and raised £3.6 million in Hampshire in 2024 toward a new headquarters near Southampton Airport. Members welcomed the presentation and expressed appreciation for the service’s rapid response to cardiac arrests, road accidents and other medical emergencies.

Police Now is inviting applications until July 31 for its 2027 National Graduate Programme for trainee neighbourhood officers. The two-year programme includes 11 weeks of academy training, frontline work with neighbourhood policing teams, and ongoing coaching and mentoring. Applicants do not need prior policing experience but should demonstrate problem-solving, teamwork, analytical ability and a commitment to community change and justice.

Winchester cyclist Graham Holt completed the 100-mile South Downs Way from Eastbourne to Winchester to raise awareness of CLN2 Batten Disease and support Helen's Pink Sky Foundation. The demanding route involved more than 4,150 metres of elevation change, with Holt completing the final stretch on a vintage Raleigh Chopper. Family, friends and Winchester’s mayor and mayoress welcomed him at the finish, while a JustGiving campaign and a personal donation to Aberlour Children’s Charity extended the fundraising effort. CLN2 Batten Disease is a progressive inherited neurological condition affecting young children and currently has no cure.

Waitrose’s Winchester branch donated £1,500 to the Boaz Project at Hill Farm near Sutton Scotney after the charity won the top prize in the retailer’s Community Matters programme. The farm-based project supports adults with learning disabilities through gardening, animal care, cooking, woodwork and crafts. Boaz representatives said the donation will help maintain a safe environment where members can develop skills, confidence and friendships.

Romsey Abbey Toddler Group held a Teddy Bears’ Picnic in the abbey’s South Garth to mark the end of term, offering crafts, games and a water tray for families and their children. The event concluded with songs and a story. The group will resume on September 2 and will host a £3-per-family Family Funday on August 5 for pre-school and Key Stage 1 children.

Romsey businesswoman Katarzyna “Kat” Kolosowska, co-owner of Romsey Vehicle Bodyshop, has been named the area’s MP HERo by MP Caroline Nokes. The national scheme, organised by Savvitas in partnership with NatWest, celebrates successful female entrepreneurs. Kolosowska will attend a parliamentary roundtable and reception on November 18. She credited her husband, team, suppliers and business partners for the company’s success since launching in February 2025, including earning more than 50 five-star reviews.

Sam King of Hedge End survived an unexpected cardiac arrest at home after his pregnant wife Emma called 999 and performed CPR under the guidance of call taker Sarah Smith. Multiple South Central Ambulance Service responders, a firefighter co-responder and an emergency doctor treated him for nearly two hours, delivering 11 defibrillator shocks and advanced life support. Sam spent 12 days in intensive care and was discharged 33 days after the arrest. He has since made a full recovery, now using an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, and reunited with the emergency team to thank them for saving his life.

Jane Scarth House, the Romsey Cancer Support Centre, raised £972.56 during its annual street collection in Romsey town centre. Volunteers collected donations, promoted the centre’s free services for cancer patients and their families, and thanked the community for supporting the event.

The Gurkha Museum in Winchester will mark the 60th anniversary of the end of the 1962–1966 Borneo Confrontation with its Borneo 60 programme. Led by The Gurkha Museum Trust, the programme includes the Hot Jungle, Cold War: The Gurkhas in the Borneo Confrontation exhibition, veteran and historian lectures, a digital resource and family activities. It aims to highlight the Brigade of Gurkhas’ contribution to jungle warfare and border security while preserving the shared heritage of Britain, Nepal, Malaysia and Brunei. The programme forms part of Project Kaida, a redevelopment supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other partners to establish the museum as a global centre for Gurkha history and culture.

The Hawk Conservancy Trust near Andover will host its Big Wild Weekend on August 8 and 9, featuring wildlife presenter and zoologist Megan McCubbin, three birds-of-prey flying displays, and representatives from several conservation groups. Chief executive Penny Smout said the event aims to engage visitors with biodiversity and deepen appreciation of the natural world.

Bluebird Care leader Daniel Langridge is encouraging more people to consider careers in adult social care, highlighting his progression from care assistant to head of partnerships and development. Bluebird Care’s workforce report, Untapped Opportunities: Building Meaningful Careers in Social Care, says the sector needs clearer career pathways, greater awareness in schools and colleges, more training and stronger professional recognition. The South West has about 182,000 adult social care posts, including 11,000 vacancies, and the workforce is projected to grow to 240,000 by 2040 as the UK population ages.

Adopt South is sponsoring the Lion of Love Valen sculpture as part of Portsmouth’s Pride of Portsmouth 100 art trail. Designed by artist Kimberley Nicolle and displayed at Portsmouth Cathedral, the sculpture symbolizes strength, love and connection, aligning with Adopt South’s mission to promote adoption and the importance of providing children with stable, loving homes.

Former staff of Sparsholt College reunited for an annual gathering that included tours of new campus developments such as sports, animal management and horticulture facilities. Current staff guided the visit before the group shared a meal and socialised. Organisers highlighted the positive atmosphere and the opportunity for former colleagues to reconnect and see progress since their retirement.

Members of the Friends of Romsey Abbey visited two historic churches in Brockenhurst, exploring St Nicholas’ Church with its Saxon and Norman heritage and extensive Commonwealth War Graves before touring the Grade II‑listed Victorian Gothic St Saviour’s Church. The group received hospitality from the Mothers’ Union and continued its support for the abbey through community activities.

A giant inflatable duck will appear in Romsey on August 4 as part of the Coaching Inn Group’s Wish You Were Here Road Trip promoting UK staycations. Positioned near The White Horse, the attraction will offer visitors chances to win a year of hotel breaks and other prizes. The event aims to encourage local tourism and is free to attend.

A new collaboration between the Winchester Downs Farmers Cluster and the Upper Itchen Restoration Community Interest Company will expand water‑quality monitoring on the River Itchen using lab‑grade equipment and weekly sampling to better identify pollution sources. The initiative combines farmer participation with volunteer citizen scientists and builds on existing conservation schemes in the region to address nutrient contamination, algal blooms, and habitat degradation in one of England’s rare chalk streams.

A commemorative event at Romsey’s Plaza Theatre marked the 90th anniversary of the Spitfire’s first flight, drawing aviation enthusiasts and raising nearly £2,500 for Jane Scarth House. Organised by Julian Gee, the evening featured talks from aviation experts and a Spitfire pilot, prompting organisers to consider future heritage and engineering events benefiting local charities.

The Littleton & Harestock Repair Café marked its first anniversary with a session at Littleton Memorial Hall where more than 25 items were repaired, contributing to significant reductions in landfill waste and CO2 emissions. Organizers emphasized the environmental benefits and the essential role of volunteers, encouraging more community members to get involved. The initiative, supported by Repair Café Winchester, has handled a diverse range of household items throughout the year.

An 11-year-old student from Winchester has gained confidence and improved her maths skills after personalised support at Mathnasium Winchester. Centre director James Kirk says tailored instruction helped overcome her confidence issues, while her mother credits the nurturing environment for her progress. Staff report she has made significant academic gains and is nearly caught up ahead of secondary school.

Lizzie Dutfield’s photograph of a vivid, fiery sunset has been selected as the Romsey Advertiser Camera Club’s Picture of the Week. The image captures deep orange and crimson tones framed by silhouetted trees. The piece encourages readers to join the Camera Club on Facebook and stay updated on local news and events in Romsey and the wider Hampshire area.

Police increased patrols along Hampshire rivers to curb illegal fishing and anti-social behaviour, including intimidation and property damage targeting riverkeepers. Under Operation Traverse, officers issued warnings and a community resolution in recent incidents near Whitchurch and Romsey. Joint patrols with rural crime and environmental agencies are set to continue throughout the summer, and the public is urged to report river-related crime or disturbances.

Ferocious Dog will make their final appearance at Hampshire’s Wickham Festival on August 1 as part of a farewell tour preceding their split in November. Frontman Ken Bonsall is retiring after 25 years, citing a promise to his wife, while praising the festival’s growth and organiser Peter Chegwyn. The band reflects on past performances, plans a celebratory final show, and leaves open the possibility of a future reunion. Ticket prices and festival details are provided.

Children aged six to twelve are invited to take part in two‑day theatre workshops at Theatre Royal Winchester, where they will rehearse and perform adaptations of Aesop’s Fables by George P. Murphy. The programme aims to build confidence, creativity and collaboration while introducing participants to working with scripts in an accessible way. No acting experience is required, and financial assistance is available through young people’s producer Shian Hunter‑Brown. Workshops run from August 6 to 7, concluding with a performance for families.

Regional leaders met in Southampton to discuss integrating nature and climate considerations into economic and political decision‑making. Organised by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust with Natural England and partners, the summit highlighted the role of natural infrastructure in addressing flooding, improving health, creating jobs and supporting sustainable growth. With upcoming changes to local governance structures, attendees emphasised the need for bold environmental leadership. Research commissioned from ARUP showed broad stakeholder agreement on the long‑term importance of nature, and the trust plans continued engagement to promote nature‑positive policy decisions as devolution progresses.

A crime‑reporting app called UKPAC, launched by Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones, has become a leading business crime reduction tool in the UK after identifying hundreds of offences, contributing to numerous charges and custodial sentences, and enabling swift reporting of incidents. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary credits the system with transforming retail crime response, delivering high rates of formal action and saving significant police time, while expanding its use to multiple police forces and thousands of businesses and users.

Residents of Webster Road in Winchester held their biennial street party featuring shared meals, games, and the traditional Rolling the Camembert competition, which was made livelier by warm weather. Neighbours of all ages attended, ending the day with a communal fish and chip supper.

Young people entering university or further education are urged to receive two doses of the MenB vaccine as part of a limited-time programme aimed at preventing meningitis and septicaemia. Eligible students born within specified date ranges can book their first dose through December 2026, with second doses available through March 2027. Health officials emphasize the increased risk of meningococcal disease in shared living environments and highlight vaccination as the most effective protection.

Winchester Community Choir presented a summer concert featuring music from across Europe alongside British and Hampshire-based works. The event, held at the United Church and attended by local civic leaders, included a commissioned piece by Oliver Tarney and arrangements of poems by Cicely Fox Smith. Funds were raised for Home Start, and the choir will resume rehearsals in September for its winter programme.

A junior football tournament hosted by Winchester City FC highlighted young talent and honoured key volunteers. MP Danny Chambers opened the event and presented awards to several long‑serving contributors. Club chairman Ken Raisbeck praised the essential role volunteers play in the success of the club and the tournament.

Kingfishers Colden Common Preschool received the Platinum #JustQuality Accreditation from Jigsaw Early Years Consultancy following a year-long assessment that reviewed evidence, practice and continuous improvement. Preschool manager Lara Webster highlighted the achievement as recognition of the team’s dedication and emphasised ongoing commitment to high‑quality early years education. The accreditation reflects excellence across areas including protection, interaction, inspiration and collaboration, while the preschool continues to offer programmes such as its Allotment School and Forest School-inspired activities.

Jane Gandee, headmistress of St Swithun’s School in Winchester, has been appointed president elect of the Girls’ Schools Association for 2026–27 and will formally assume the role in September 2027. She highlights the continued importance of all-girls’ education in countering gender stereotypes. Her career includes leadership and teaching roles at several girls’ schools following studies at Girton College, Cambridge. The association promotes collaboration among leaders of girls’ schools to support and empower young women.

The Hampshire Orthopaedic Centre in Winchester was awarded national accreditation through NHS England’s GIRFT programme less than a year after opening, recognising high standards of surgical care, safety and operational performance. The centre has treated almost 1,000 patients, achieving a 44 percent day-case rate and improving access to planned orthopaedic procedures by operating separately from emergency services. Hospital leadership and GIRFT officials praised the professionalism of staff and the centre’s impact on reducing waiting times and enhancing patient experience.

Age Concern Hampshire promotes its door‑to‑door transport service designed to help older residents travel safely to day care and wellbeing centres. Drivers and assistants support clients from home to return, ensuring they have necessary items and offering reassurance to families. The charity’s centres provide activities, meals and personalised support, including for people with dementia, helping maintain independence and confidence for older adults.

Westlands Farm Shop in Wickham will hold a free outdoor event on July 17 as part of Bee's Needs Week, offering visitors the chance to meet Jack from Strides Honey, taste raspberry blossom honey, and learn about the importance of bees. The event requires no booking, and a similar session with Honey Bee Happy is planned for the Winchester store in September.

A nuthatch photograph by Dave Newbury was selected as the Romsey Advertiser Camera Club’s Picture of the Week, noted for its detailed capture of the bird on a feeder. The article encourages readers to join the club via Facebook and keep up with local Romsey news and activities.

Samuel Beckett’s Endgame will be performed at Theatre Royal Winchester on July 28, presented by Flabbergast Theatre, known for its physical and visually bold productions. The staging emphasizes dark comedy, stark poetry and physicality, with a post‑show discussion available to attendees. The performance is recommended for ages 11 and up, with ticket information provided by the venue.

Residents at Flowerdown Care Home, supported by staff and gardener Ian, are cultivating flowers, fruits and vegetables as part of a gardening project designed to encourage exercise, sensory stimulation and social interaction. General manager Claudia Nunes highlights the joy residents gain from tending the garden and eating what they grow, while resident Sean describes the activity as therapeutic. The home, operated by Barchester Healthcare, provides various types of care and uses the garden to enhance resident wellbeing.

A Bee Gees tribute show, The Magic of the Bee Gees, will perform at Theatre Royal Winchester on July 25, offering hits from the 60s to the 80s and songs written by the Gibb brothers for other artists. Produced by Entertainers, the concert highlights the group’s classic pop and disco sound. Tickets and details are available through the theatre’s website and box office.

A modern four‑bedroom detached house in Kings Worthy is listed for £1.1 million, offering over 2,000 square feet of living space, solar panels, underfloor heating, and contemporary interiors. Built in 2019 by Shorewood Homes and marketed by Winkworth Winchester, the property features an open‑plan kitchen and dining area, a spacious sitting room, a principal suite with dressing area and en suite, and a landscaped west‑facing garden. Additional amenities include a detached garage with potential for workshop use and off‑road parking.

A photograph by John Cleverley showing a combine harvester and tractor working on a winter barley crop near Kings Somborne is selected as the Romsey Advertiser Camera Club’s Picture of the Week. The article highlights the image’s warm evening setting and encourages readers to join the Camera Club and follow local updates.

Hampshire Dachs-Fest will return on September 5 at Shedfield Equestrian Centre, with organisers anticipating its largest turnout yet. More than 700 tickets have been sold and over 200 dachshunds registered. Founded by canine behaviourist Harriet Newman-Rose, the festival features dog show classes, food, shopping, talks and entertainment, and raises funds for Dachshund Health UK.

Hampshire authorities are urging residents to reflect on the role of alcohol in their lives during Alcohol Awareness Week while highlighting heightened domestic abuse risks during major men's football tournaments. The Hampshire Domestic Abuse Partnership reports incidents can rise significantly during such events, particularly when England loses. County officials emphasize that alcohol does not cause abuse but can intensify aggression and danger. A campaign encourages those concerned about domestic abuse to seek help through the Hampshire Domestic Abuse Advice Line operated by Stop Domestic Abuse.

Bowls clubs across Hampshire are offering free sessions and open days through Bowls’ Big Summer 2026 to encourage new players, following a previous campaign that attracted more than 20,000 participants. Sessions run through September and include open days, taster events and pay‑and‑play options covering all major forms of the sport, with coaches and equipment provided. An online hub at play-bowls.com helps visitors locate nearby clubs. The initiative coincides with a busy summer of sport, including bowls’ inclusion at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, and is organised by several national bowling associations.

A range of heritage diesel locomotives, including Class 33 no. 33108 and several other visiting engines, will feature at The Watercress Line’s Diesel Gala from July 10 to 12. The event showcases locomotives across all British Rail diesel classifications and offers additional activities such as onboard ale and cider, engineering workshop tours, miniature railway rides, and society stands. Organisers describe the full line-up as a rare “Royal Flush,” promising an engaging weekend for visitors.

Molly Staples, a physiotherapy student at the University of Winchester, will represent Guernsey in the 50m butterfly and 50m backstroke at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, potentially joining relay events as well. After competing previously at the 2022 Games and earning multiple medals at the Island Games, she has returned to Guernsey for intensive training. She credits physiotherapy for helping her swimming career and hopes to support young swimmers in the future. Her coach, Ben Dinsdale, praised her commitment and preparation ahead of the Games.

A new Fire & Ice Christmas event at Marwell Zoo will run from November 20 to December 31, featuring themed illuminations, performers, interactive zones and educational activities about animal winter survival. CEO Laura Read says the experience expands the zoo’s festive offerings with a focus on conservation. Tickets are now available for zoo-and-event or event-only entry.

A Winchester kitchen designer completed the Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim in memory of a colleague who died from ischaemic heart disease, raising more than £4,600 for the British Heart Foundation. The event took place during a June heatwave, and the late colleague’s family attended to support the effort, with donations continuing through an online fundraising page.

A new £1 competition from BOTB offers a modern family home in Winchester along with a Porsche Cayenne GTS, a Volkswagen Golf GTI and £100,000 in cash, or an optional £730,000 cash alternative. The property features energy‑efficient systems and is located near local amenities. Entry to the Dream Home Competition is available through BOTB’s website.

A Hampshire charity recognized five churches for their fundraising achievements during the Ride and Stride event at an annual meeting held at Winchester Cathedral. The Hampshire and the Islands Historic Churches Trust, which has provided over £1 million in grants since 1988, honoured several parishes for raising substantial sponsorship funds, including long-time contributors and first‑time top performers. Geoffrey Scard received special recognition for three decades of participation. This year’s Ride and Stride is scheduled for September 12, with participants sponsored to visit historic churches by foot or bike.

Cadence, a hospitality business operating ten clubhouse locations across the South Downs, is seeking partnerships with landowners and local authorities to expand sites along walking and cycling trails. The company highlights its focus on creating accessible rural employment, noting that most staff live nearby and many are under 25. Leadership and staff describe opportunities for skills development and career progression, emphasizing the company’s supportive working environment. Cadence believes further growth could drive additional rural job creation and invites interest from organisations with suitable sites.

More than 2,500 Year 6 pupils from Hampshire and East Dorset attended leavers’ celebration services and workshops at Winchester Cathedral, including calligraphy, archaeology, singing sessions and guided tours. Bishops from the Diocese of Winchester led the services, which featured school banners and performances. A special art installation concluded the Bags of Hope project, using Paddington Bear’s refugee story to help pupils engage with themes of empathy and displacement.

Winchester Rotary is holding an open evening on July 20 at The Golden Lion Pub, offering the community a chance to learn about its local and international projects. A brief presentation will be followed by networking with members, and attendees are encouraged to email the group by July 17 if they wish to attend.

Micheldever Tyre Services has acquired Tyre Spot Autocentres, expanding its national footprint and rebranding the firm’s 11 North East retail sites as Protyre Autocare while assuming control of its distribution centre. Company leaders describe the deal as a strategic step that enhances retail coverage, logistics capability and long-term growth potential. Tyre Spot’s managing director expressed confidence in the transition, citing shared values and service quality between the two businesses.

Natasha Dochniak has been promoted to commercial director at Hampshire Fare as the organisation marks its 35th anniversary. Leadership highlighted her role in guiding the group through transformational changes that improved its financial position and future ambitions. Plans for new initiatives aimed at boosting consumer engagement and supporting member businesses will be announced later in the year.

Twyford Waterworks will hold an open day on July 5, offering demonstrations of its Edwardian pumping station, Hathorn Davey steam engine, Ruston diesel engines and other historic machinery, along with access to lime kilns, water‑softening equipment and a chalk‑grassland nature trail. Visitors are encouraged to allow several hours, with parking, a tea room and a barbecue available on site.

David Fawcett was inducted as president of the Fareham Meon Rotary Club during a ceremony in Fareham, succeeding Paul Jones after a successful year for the club. Fawcett emphasised building on the organisation’s legacy and strengthening community service, drawing on decades of experience in social value and charity work. The event featured speeches from Rotary district governor Richard Burnett and keynote speaker Jim Roberson, with entertainment provided by magician Ian McKeown. The club continues its community-focused initiatives and invites new members to join.

St Peter’s Church in Plaitford held its first St Peter’s Day celebration featuring a village cake and produce show, children’s classes, and a church service. Winners received rosettes, and attendees enjoyed tea and cake. The church will host an open day on July 5 with exhibits from the local community archive and artefacts ranging from the Bronze Age to the Civil War. Although it no longer holds regular Sunday services, the historic church continues to serve as a hub for community events.

A total of 109 Hampshire financial advisers were included in the VouchedFor 2026 Top Rated Financial Adviser Guide, with the highest numbers based in Fareham, Waterlooville and Southampton. The ranking reflects increased consumer reliance on professional advice as AI-driven tools grow in use. VouchedFor’s Harriet Spurrell noted that while AI is influencing financial engagement, clients still value human reassurance and trust. The guide features 2,784 advisers nationwide, supported by strong client recommendation rates.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service will open a 72‑hour recruitment window on July 6 for new wholetime firefighters, with no prior experience required. Applicants must be at least 17 and a half years old, and full details on the application and fitness process are available on the service’s website. Workforce planning manager Larry Mackrell encouraged prospective candidates to apply and highlighted recent recruitment events and online resources.

Step Terrace in Winchester will close for two weeks from July 6 to allow utility works by Whites of Winchester under a temporary closure order granted by Hampshire County Council. The closure applies 24 hours a day, with a diversion route available via nearby roads. The order permits a closure of up to six months, though works are expected to finish within two weeks.

Cheriton Primary School is marking its 150th anniversary with the creation of the Cheriton 150 Legacy Fund, aimed at raising £150,000 to improve facilities and expand opportunities for students. The initiative has already generated over £13,000 through community donations and events, including a successful music fundraiser at Raimes Wine Barn. Upcoming activities include the Cheriton Midsummer Ball and an online silent auction offering prizes such as hotel stays and vineyard tours. Governors emphasize strong community support and encourage further sponsorships, donations, and participation to build a long-term legacy for future pupils.

Donations totaling £86,000 from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Freemasons were distributed to 23 charities across Hampshire, supporting groups such as Hampshire Search and Rescue, the Honeypot Children’s Charity and MS Support Hampshire. At a presentation event attended by charity representatives and local MP Caroline Nokes, speakers emphasized the importance of community-driven funding and the Freemasons’ commitment to reinvesting contributions locally. The funding aims to help charities continue essential services for vulnerable residents.

A Hampshire father who suffered a cardiac arrest in December 2025 reunited with the emergency responders who helped save his life. His daughter initiated CPR with guidance from an emergency call handler, while a neighbour’s son provided a defibrillator and assisted. Multiple emergency teams resuscitated him and transported him to hospital, where he recovered and later received an implanted defibrillator and pacemaker. During the reunion, the family expressed gratitude to the responders, and he made a donation to the South Central Ambulance Charity.

Abbeyfield Wessex Society is marking its 70th anniversary with a week of 1950s-themed events across its properties in southern England. The celebration highlights the charity’s history, community-focused values, and ongoing mission to support older people. Activities include nostalgic events, public gatherings, and opportunities for residents and the wider community to connect, while honoring the contributions of staff and volunteers and reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to companionship, independence, and wellbeing.

Wood-Fest will return to Upper Wield in 2026 with a multi‑stage lineup featuring established acts and emerging artists. The volunteer‑run festival emphasises community support, partnering with local suppliers and offering Alton College students hands‑on experience in live event production. Funds will be raised for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, the festival’s first supported charity, and Andy’s Man Club, which has recently provided significant support to the organisers.

Blue Angel Care was named one of the top 20 medium to large home care groups in the UK for the fifth consecutive year based on client and family reviews collected by Homecare.co.uk. Operating across Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey, the provider supports over 300 clients with more than 200 caregivers across five CQC‑registered sites. Co-founders Dariusz Motyka and Zul Mamon credited the achievement to their caregiving staff, highlighting their dedication and daily efforts. The company offers services including personal care, companionship, dementia care, live‑in care and respite care.

A new wine‑tasting experience called The Wine Line will run on July 25 aboard The Watercress Line’s heritage steam train, offering premium wines, expert talks, food pairings and countryside views. The event, created in partnership with The Naked Grape and Penn Croft winery, costs £99 and requires advance booking due to limited availability.

Winchester Business Improvement District is promoting Independent Business Month, encouraging support for more than 200 independent shops, cafes and services across the city. A free #IndieWinch Pocket Map and window sticker campaign help identify local independent businesses, supported by an online directory and media content showcasing business owners. The initiative coincides with A Taste of Winchester, a two‑week food and drink festival featuring events, tastings and a large outdoor Long Lazy Lunch created by local hospitality businesses. Executives highlight the growing collaboration within Winchester’s business and hospitality community.

Adults with learning disabilities are receiving barista training at The Boaz Project in Sutton Scotney through a partnership with River Coffee Roasters, which is providing workshops and an espresso machine. Participants learn all stages of coffee preparation and receive certificates upon completion. Staff and members describe increased confidence and enjoyment as they develop new skills.

Twyford School hosted a Court Cricket event featuring returning professional cricketers and enthusiastic participation from pupils and parents. The long-standing school tradition highlighted strong community ties and celebrated the connection between past and present students, with warm wishes extended to alumni as they resume their professional seasons.

A one‑day closure of Tutts Lane in Wellow is scheduled to allow ground investigation works between Bottom Lane and a point 500 metres north. The closure, authorised by Hampshire County Council, will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm on July 8, with D&C Groundtec completing the work. Although the order permits up to six months, the project is expected to finish within a day. A signed diversion will run via Scallows Lane, Spouts Lane, Pound Lane, Sherfield English Road, the A36 Salisbury Road and Maurys Lane, and affected residents will be notified in advance.

Peter Symonds College will host its annual Arts Festival on June 29, offering free public access to exhibits and performances across fine art, photography, textiles, sculpture, design and music. The event features live performances, film screenings, music production showcases and refreshments, including a barbecue, with free parking available. It aims to celebrate student creativity and engage the local community.

Chef Luke Emmess credits his training at Havant and South Downs College with shaping his professional standards and helping launch a career that led to the finals of MasterChef: The Professionals. Now head chef at The Wykeham Arms in Winchester, he reflects positively on his lecturers' support and his specialised training in both larder and pastry. His achievements include earning two AA Rosettes and winning Fuller’s Chef of the Year in 2016, judged by Pierre Koffmann.