Mid Hampshire Group Report 2007

Mid Hampshire District Group

It has been a fairly lively year for Mid-Hants with some successful fundraising and advertising events.

Events

A barbeque at Landor House, management at the Winchester car boot sale, Abbey Gardens' sale and a Bridge Lunch - by kind permission and arranged by Alison Mathews - which alone raised £900. John Budden, as always arranged all the other events and we were able to contribute £1,800 to Branch funds. Not a fortune but a good deal of work by all the committee, and - not to be forgotten - publicity for CPRE.

A special event was a concert in the 12th Century Chapel of The Hospital of St Cross - an excellent setting for a concert by Paul Hart, an exceptional Royal Marine trumpeter - and organist Elizabeth Le Grove, who very kindly waived her fee to CPRE. The performance included Baroque sonatas and the Royal Marines famous 'evening sunset' and Paul Hart dedicated this piece to our servicemen serving in active combat this year.

Our stand at the Alresford Show attracted more interest this year and included the battle-map, which showed the District issues very clearly.

Micheldever

Micheldever is at present out of our remit as the new 'bandwagon' of Eco-Towns has been jumped on by Eagle Star. There are 57 suggested areas to be considered by the PM -for 10 towns. Maybe a 'ticket in the hat' decision will let us off! This development has been refused twice by the inspectors because of the loss of landscape between Basingstoke and Winchester and doubtful offers of adequate infrastructure.

AGM

This is at Denmead Church Hall on 4th April 2008. Please support this event - some local food exhibitors and a young farmer will be the speaker.

Event for 2008

There will be an Open Garden on 20th April 2008, at the home of Sir Peter Ramsbotham, East Lane, Ovington nr Alresford. The garden is open from 2.30pm to 5.30pm and light refreshments will be available. Entry is £3 for adults, under 14's go free. More details about this event are available from John Budden, tel 02392 343731 or email j.budden3@ntlworld.com.