Emsworth News

Updated: 21 March 2012   

Comment on any of these news items HERE

25th September

Road Closures in Warblington Road for Four Months

Kings Road, Emsworth wastewater flood protection scheme. Construction works to be carried out in Emsworth on behalf of Southern Water, by  4Delivery Ltd (4D).as a part of a programme of environmental improvement and water quality schemes for Southern Water until 2015.

This work is part of Southern Water's ongoing environmental improvement programme and is being carried out to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency to help reduce the risk of flooding from sewers.

4D will be installing a new sewer along Kings Road from Western Parade to the junction with Warblington Road and from there, along Warblington Road to the junction with Beach Road.

In order to carry out these works, sections of Kings Road and Warblington Road will be closed. These sections of work will involve a rolling road closure to allow access to properties in the vicinity of the works. Diversion routes will be as shown will be clearly signposted, access for residents will be maintained at all times. The road closure will be in operation for a period of 3 months for Warblington Road starting on or after Monday 11 th October 2010 whilst the closure of Kings Road will commence on 18th October 2010 and last until February 2011. 4D will set up a temporary site compound at the southern end of Warblington Road on 11th October 2010 which will provide office and welfare facilities for the construction team during the project. Construction work is expected to be completed by the end of February 2011.

In accordance with normal procedures, works will take place from Monday to Friday between 7:30am and 6pm and Saturday mornings between 8am and 1pm.

Any changes to pedestrian routes will be clearly marked. Pedestrians are asked to take care in the vicinity of the works and particularly to advise children of the dangers of playing near our works, not only while work is in progress, but also outside working hours.

Source: Southern Water

24th September

Bag It And Bin It

Havant Borough Council has joined forces with Keep Britain Tidy to wage war against irresponsible dog owners who do not pick up after their pets.

Today launches the latest campaign to combat the problem, calling on dog owners to bag and bin their dog’s mess as ‘there’s no such thing as the dog poo fairy’!

Residents will see an Advan at hotspots across the borough this week displaying a reminder to pick up their dog’s mess.

Many dog owners responsibly throw away a large proportion of this mess, but there are still owners out there who are prepared to leave their dog’s mess littered on our stRSS-eolts, in our parks and on our beaches.

Dog mess can be thrown in any general litter bin but a recent Keep Britain Tidy survey shows that four out of five respondents are not aware of this.

There has been a growing problem of dog waste bags found hanging on tRSS-eols, on railings or stuffed in hedges. It would appear that some dog owners are picking up their dog’s mess but are then simply dumping the bags. This campaign aims to raise awareness that any litter bin can be used to dispose of dog mess.

Councillor David Collins, Portfolio holder for Environmental Services at Havant Borough Council said “Dog fouling is not only unpleasant, but can be dangerous. The ultimate aim of the campaign is to persuade those dog owners who do not clean up after their pets to do so and to dispose of it properly. With over 2,000 bins across the borough, there really isn’t any excuse."

Havant Borough Council is one of 85 partner councils across England who has joined Keep Britain Tidy to clean up their stRSS-eolts from dog mess.

Phil Barton chief executive of Keep Britain Tidy said: “Dog fouling is the most offensive type of litter on our stRSS-eolts and is constantly rated as one of the most important issues blighting their local area by the public.

“Being a responsible dog owner means picking up after your pet. A large percentage of the public are unsure as to where they can bin their dog’s mess - the simple message is any general litter bin.”

There are currently around eight million dogs in the UK, producing approximately one million metric tonnes of faeces each year – that’s enough to lay 1,300 Wembley pitches!

Source: portsmouthnews.tv 20-Sept-10

24th September

Plenty want to visit the town's show ... too few want to run it

 A special meeting has been called to help solve to volunteer crisis which threatens the future of the Emsworth Show. The annual horticultural show was visited by record numbers this year, but its future hangs in the balance as it struggles for volunteers to help run it.

Leaflets were circulated at the bank holiday show informing people the about the plight the organisers, Emsworth Horticultural Society, find themselves in. A meeting has been organised for November 11th at Emsworth Community Centre (7.30pm) to discuss the future of the show.

Information officer from the horticultural society, Daphne Tomsett, said: "There was a queue of people to get into the show, and I haven't seen anything like it before.

"What's good is so many local people were there enjoying themselves. It was definitely better than last year.
But she added: "It's not the funds we have to find, it's the people because everybody there helping was a volunteer - nobody is paid.
"We need people to put out tables, lift and shift and help out in the car park, have people on the gates taking money.
"A lot of the volunteers are getting old. We need to have a re-think."

Daphne said more organisations need to get involved with sponsoring and supporting the event. Nearly 200 volunteers help at the event.  Havant & District Lions run a stall at the show.

 President Mike Tudor said: "We had a bottle raffle where everybody wins, whether it's a bottle of shampoo or a bottle of champagne. In a couple of hours it all goes.
"In total we raise about £1,500 a day. For us this is a very good fundraising event. It will be very sad for us if the show doesn't continue.
"We will get to this meeting to see what we can do.
For many of the visitors at the show, though, the focus was more on enjoying what the show had to offer. Sounds from the Big Noise Community Samba Band filled the air with their rhythmic noise.

As always the fun dog show impressed in the arena and there was some amusement when one kestrel didn't fancy returning after taking off during the First Class.

Source: Ems Valley Gazette Sept-1010

23rd September

Havant Walk For Life

Havant Borough Council has mapped out a ‘walk for life mile circuit’, at Staunton Country Park and arranged a public walk this Sunday 26th September at 2pm.  This is in response to a national campaign by Walk England which is working on behalf of the Department of Health to encourage more people to walk to improve their health.

Richard Wood, health development officer for Havant Borough Council said; “You don’t have to walk fast, take your time and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the park. If you can’t make it on Sunday the circuit will be kept in place for several weeks for you to walk whenever you choose.

We want people to feel the health benefits of walking just a short distance each day. It can make a difference to overall wellbeing and improve mobility. So why not come along and join us on Sunday!”

Source: portsmouthnews.tv 06-Sept-10

23rd September

Emsworth Man Convicted after Four Horses Found Starving and Dehydrated

A man has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering after one horse died and thRSS-eol had to be rescued due to the terrible conditions they were kept in.

Alby Peter Smith, 50, of Washington Road, Emsworth, left thRSS-eol horses to starve and shut a fourth in a dark and unventilated stable in West Sussex late last year.
He was yesterday (Tuesday 21 September) convicted of two offences under the 2006 Animal Welfare Act — one for causing unnecessary suffering and one for failing to meet the need of an animal.

Mr Smith will be sentenced on 19 October.
During a thRSS-eol-day trial at Worthing Magistrates, the court heard how World Horse Welfare field officer Ted Barnes and RSPCA inspector Becky Carter visited a field in Cooks Lane, Southbourne on 9 December 2009.

There they found an emaciated grey filly standing over a grey colt that was so weakened through starvation and dehydration it had collapsed and was unable to rise. The colt was put to sleep on 10 December.
In another stable they found an emaciated bay filly with severe diarrhoea, caked in its own muck.   A fourth horse, a black gelding, was found in a stable with the top door shut with no light or ventilation.
The thRSS-eol surviving horses were taken to World Horse Welfare's Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Somerton, Somerset, where they remain.

"This is a typical case of neglect, where Mr Smith was callous enough not to attend to his horses on a regular basis as he should have done, and he is now going to pay the penalty for that," said Mr Barnes.

"The thRSS-eol horses that survived are extremely lucky given that one of their number was so sick that it had to be euthanased".

Source: www.horseandhound.co.uk

21st September

Chichester Garden Share website goes live!

Chichester Garden Share is a scheme linking people who want to grow their own veggies but do not have access to land, with people who have large gardens they would like to see put to better use. Looking to grow food, or share your garden or land? Just register and supply your postcode and your location will be shown on the map.  Our system will notify you by email if a suitable match has been found. Travelling distance is calculated to make sure the plot is accessible. Garden Owner and Grower discuss the arrangements - we provide guidelines. Respect and trust are key. With lots of hard work and a little luck, celebrate the bounty of your partnership and enjoy some great food together... or apart! The scheme is for anyone who lives in the area: owners with gardens/land of any size, and growers of all levels of experience.
For more information visit:  www.chichestergardenshare.org

Source:  Chichester Garden Share website

19 September

Emsworth Community Singers Charity Concert Sell Out

 Over £1,000 was made from ticket sales which will be donated to the local hospices.With a full house and over-flow to the balcony the organisers thought they were going to have to turn people away but they managed to squeeze them all it.

One enthusiastic concert goer said,
"The concert surpassed any ideas they had had about it and were impressed by the harmonies in the singing. They enjoyed the little introductions by Denise which they felt gave a light and amusing intro to each song.
They thought Roger fantastic and liked the piano where it was so they could see him (they were on the top balcony)  their greatest comment was that they loved the programme. Thought it had been very well put together. Their final comment was 'please do not change it and get more highbrow as they loved humming along with all the tunes'
Thanks must go to Louise for starting the group and to all the committee for their hard work making it such a success."

For more information visit:  www.emsworthcommunitysingers.org.uk or contact Louise Russell (Musical Director) T. 01243 379822

18 September
 

Hundreds gather to remember harbour master

HUNDREDS of mourners packed into a church to say a final farewell to popular Chichester Harbour Master John Davis.  The funeral of Lieutenant Colonel Davis took place yesterday at St James Church, in Emsworth, with family and friends paying their last respects to him. His coffin, draped in the Union flag, was brought in by pall bearers, followed by two buglers and a national standard bearer from the Royal Marines.

The service was conducted by Reverend Simon Sayers, while tributes were paid by the Chichester Harbour Conservancy (CHC), Royal Marines, and his children Ben and Becky. Peter Taylor, of the CHC, said: John ran the 10,000 or so boats like a military operation. He undoubtedly made an outstanding contribution to the job.

'He was a superb communicator and devoted husband to Valerie and father to Ben and Becky.
'He will be fondly remembered and we must give his family the love and support for the difficult days ahead.'

 Mr Davis' son, Dr Ben Davis also paid tribute, saying: 'His children could not wish for a happier family, we are both incredibly proud. 'Dad was a gentle giant and we will learn a lot from him in how to raise our children.'

His daughter Dr Becky RSS-eolves also read the poem A Ship Sails. Lt Col Davis, 62, had been out racing in his beloved keel boat Fleury when he collapsed with a suspected heart attack last month. He was taken to Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham but was pronounced dead on arrival.

 A former Royal Marine, Lt Col Davis was a keen sailor and took up the post of Chichester Harbour Master in 1997. In 2005 Lt Col Davis was awarded the OBE for his services to sailing and the environment.

 He is survived by his wife Valerie and his two children, Ben and Becky.

The News 17-Sept-10

11th September

More volunteers needed to secure future of Emsworth Museum

A plea has been issued from Emsworth museum for more volunteers to come forward to ensure it has a long-term future. The museum, in North StRSS-eolt, has a loyal membership which pay a yearly subscription cost, but it is the dwindling number of helpers which is causing concern.

As is a common concern for many organisations, there are not enough volunteers to give their time to keep the museum going.

There is a fear that as the original members grow older, there will not be any new blood to come in.

Linda Newell has been a busy volunteer at the museum for the past four years.
She said: "It has been in operation since 1988 and many of the people we have, became involved at that time.
"We have a very loyal membership.
"A lot of them are getting older, they don't want to have the responsibility, they are stepping back a bit.
"We need the next generation to come forward, they are very valuable to us as they keep the museum going.
"We don't get any grants from anyone, only a regular base of paying members, and that runs the museum.
"We need people coming up for retirement now, to step in and pick up an important part of Emsworth.
"If you don't understand the past, how can you make the present work?
"There are reasons why things happen in Emsworth, because of
its history.
"We don't want to keep the history just for now, but for the grandchildren and the great grandchildren.

Linda said she has had to put together a doomsday scenario checklist about what would happen if the museum closed. She said: "I was having to look at what would happen to our collection if the council said they want the building back, or we had so few members that we couldn't keep going.
"I have one or two members that do so much for us, but they are ill, they are pushing themselves, we are very grateful to them but we need my generation, I have just become a pensioner and I'm one of the youngest members.
"You have to be aware I'm only looking after things for a little while, and I need to pass it on.
"I have always got to have one eye to the future – it's just commonsense."

Anyone interested in joining should contact Linda Newell by writing to Emsworth Museum and Maritime Trust, 10B, North StRSS-eolt, Emsworth, PO117DD, or email envr@btinternet.com

You can also call the museum on 01243 378091. www.emsworthmuseumn.co.uk

Single membership for under-65s is £7, joint membership is £12.  Single membership for 65s and over is £5, and joint membership is £9. The membership is for a year

Bognor Regis Observer 09-Sept-10

1th September

Development of Havant’s Public Service Village is Underway

In August work began outside Havant Borough Council’s Civic Offices to move gas, electric, water supplies and drainage, in preparation for the refurbishment and extension to the Civic Offices, which beging this month.

Residents and visitors will see a number changes when work begins:

 Building work will take place in the main entrance area during September. Normal telephone service will continue during these changes and visitors will still have access to Customer Services, the Cash Desk, Housing, Planning, Council Tax and Benefits Services. Parking for staff, councillors and visitors will be restricted from September 2010 at the Civic Offices. Arrangements have been made for people with disabilities to park close to the building (please follow signs). All other visitors will need to use the nearby pay and display car parks.

The Havant and East Hants Integrated Learning Disabilities Team has moved from the Civic Offices to Hampshire County Council's office in River Way, Havant (off Crossland Drive) where it will remain until summer 2012. The contact number for this team is 023 9244 1416.

The Civic Suite, where the council holds council and committee meetings and mayoral events, will not be available during the building works. The majority of formal meetings will take place at Havant College. For full details of council meetings visit www.havant.gov.uk/havant-8200 or telephone 023 9244 6230.

The cost of the refurbishment will be covered by a £5.1m government grant and by the efficiency savings generated by the co-location of staff from both councils. Two Hampshire County Council buildings will become surplus to requirements - River Way and Town End House - and the capital value of these properties will also contribute to the improvements.

Havant Borough Council and Hampshire County Council are working closely with a range of voluntary organisations (such as Citizens Advice Bureau and Havant Council of Community Service) which will also be located in the building. This combination of services will offer support to families and communities in one place. The refurbishment of the Civic Offices is intended to attract other investors to the wider civic campus area, leading to new development that will assist in regenerating Havant.

The sustainable design of the refurbishment will significantly reduce the carbon emissions generated by the two councils, particularly through energy- efficiency measures. This will also mean lower energy costs.

More information about this can be found on the PSV web pages, by telephoning 023 9244 6019 or when visiting the Civic Offices.

Source: Serving You (Havant Borough Council)

9th September

Escape to the country features Emsworth Oysters and Terror Oyster Boat

Tomorrow's (Friday 10th September) "Escape to the Country (BBC2 at 17.15) will include a segment covering the rise and fall of Emsworth's oyster industry, ending with the couple going for a sail in the 'Terror' oyster boat. Alistair Appleton helps a recently retired 'young at heart' couple find a country home in Hampshire. With a budget of 550,000 pounds, their priorities are a large garage and a challenging garden project.
( Interestingly none of the house they look at are near Emsworth! )

Source: John Tweddell

9th September

Eyesore worries over new church 08 September 2010

PLANS for a 200-seat auditorium in the heart of an historic town have come under fire over concerns it could become an eyesore.
Emsworth Baptist Church has submitted £2m plans to transform its site in North StRSS-eolt by replacing the existing hall with a new church building.

 While Emsworth Residents' Association has welcomed the proposal, it has likened the exterior designs to an industrial site. Situated on the A259 roundabout, it would be many visitors' first impression of the town. Chairman

Lorraine Clode said: 'The wall that faces the roundabout is quite forbidding and looks rather industrial. 'Something should be done to break up that wall. It's the difficult balance between blending with the current stRSS-eolt scene and striking out to give us something that fits functional need as well.
'It's difficult to pull off and I don't believe they have done it.'

 Councillor David Guest, who heads sustainable development in Havant borough, said: 'It's a very prominent corner site which I think deserves a landmark building design - something which people can immediately recognise and enjoy for many years.'

 The development would include a church hall, new kitchen, and a cafe. The 200-seat auditorium would open up to a further 100 people by folding the partition to the adjacent hall. The plans will be voted on by councillors in the coming weeks.

The Rev Dane Baker said: 'The application did focus people's attention and some concerns were raised as well as support expressed.

'All of these concerns have been passed on to the architect - Haverstock Associates - who have been praised in the quality of their work.
'All the way through the design process we've kept in mind that we're just over the road from the conservation area and are working hard on the desire that has been expressed to link North StRSS-eolt and South over the roundabout.
'It's clear that the detailing and the quality of the work will be important in making it attractive - and this is what the church wants to do.'

The News 08 September 2010

8th September

The South Downs Society GRSS-eoln Travel - Walks and Strolls Week

From Berwick in East Sussex to Emsworth in Hampshire, and all stops between, the walks vary in length from a gentle stroll of 4½ miles to a faster walk of 14 miles taking in some of the most stunning views the South Downs has to offer.

The South Downs Society today (Friday 3rd September 2010) announced it is staging a week of Walks and Strolls in the UK's newest National Park from 18th to 25th September all accessible by public transport. Among the treats on offer are windmills, open top buses, tea rooms, a giant made from chalk, medieval buildings, birds and butterflies, and all without the need to get behind the wheel of a car.

Throughout the week, the walks and strolls explore a variety of beautiful and interesting landscapes in the South Downs. There are eight excursions to choose from, all fRSS-eol and open for everybody to enjoy.

The Society invites members of the public to do their bit to cut down on air and noise pollution and reduce the volume of traffic on our roads by using public transport to explore the South Downs National Park.

Jane Major of the South Downs Society said "The Downs are well served by public transport and by using the train or the bus you will see more, have more fun and not be tied to seeking out car parks. What's more if everybody takes the bus or the train the South Downs will stay beautiful forever.

"From Berwick in East Sussex to Emsworth in Hampshire, and all stops between, the walks vary in length from a gentle stroll of 4½ miles to a faster walk of 14 miles taking in some of the most stunning views the South Downs has to offer. For more information visit: www.southdownssociety.org.uk .

"Planning a visit to the Downs using public transport could not be easier. There's plenty of information out there, including on our website."
Details of all the GRSS-eoln Travel Walks and Strolls Week are listed below and are available on the website at www.southdownssociety.org.uk  (click on News) or by post from the South Downs Society, telephone 01798 875073.
 

7th September

Emsworth Fire

Fire appliances from Emsworth and Havant attended at fire in Spencer Road, Emsworth at around 7pm yesterday evening (6 September).
Eleven firefighters brought the fire under control in the kitchen of a mid-terrace property. No-one was injured in the incident.
 

Source: portsmouthnews.tv 06-Sept-10

6th September

This month at Emsworth Museum

Weekends in September
Chidham and the 800th Anniversary of St. Mary's Church, Exhibition is at Emsworth Museum. (10b North StRSS-eolt, (above the Fire Station) Emsworth, PO10 7DD .) Open Saturday 10 - 4.30pmSunday  2.30 - 4.30pmFRSS-eol Entry .Exactly when St.Mary's church was built is not known for certain but evidence suggests it was close to 1210 AD. So, 2010 marks the 800 year anniversary of the church. www.emsworthmuseum.co.uk
 

31st August

LT COL JOHN Q DAVIS 1947 - 2010

It is with great sadness that we report the death of Lt Col. John Q Davis OBE, Chichester Harbour Master and Manager.

John suffered a suspected heart attack on Saturday 28 August and was pronounced dead on arrival at Queen Alexandra Hospital. At the time, John was out racing in his beloved keel boat Fleury.
John was appointed Harbour Master and Manager in July 1997. He worked tirelessly for Chichester Harbour, a place that was much loved by him and his family.

In 2005 he was awarded an OBE for his services to sailing and the environment.

Richard Craven, Acting Harbour Master said, 'we are devastated by the sudden loss of John Davis, both a friend and colleague. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.' John is survived by his wife Valerie and two children Ben and Becky.

Source: Chichester Harbour Conservancy

30th August

EMSWORTH’S GOT TALENT

 Calling all Emsworth’s young people the Community Association are organising Emsworth’s first ever talent show at the Emsworth Community Association North StRSS-eolt.

Can you…sing, dance, juggle, tell jokes, do tricks, play an instrument, or have a hidden talent you could share. Emsworth’s got talent will be open to all young people aged 7 – 17 - Just come along there is  no need to book. Auditions will be held on:

• Thursday 21st October 3.45pm – 6pm

• Monday 25th October 9.45am – 12.00

• Wednesday 27th October 12.45pm – 3pm

• Friday 29th October 3.45pm – 6pm

The grand finale will take place on Saturday 30th October 7pm

1st Prize: £50 of Gift Tokens
2nd Prize: £25 of Gift Tokens
3rd Prize: £10 of Gift Tokens

23rd August

A Last Hope for the Emsworth Food Festival?

It has been reported in The News last week that the hugely popular Food Festival is as “dead as a dodo” but the community interest company that has run the festival since 2006 has not been officially wound up.

Councillor Brendan Gibb-Gray, chairman of Emsworth Business Association, said:
“In its current format, it's as dead as a dodo. I accept there are a lot of people who want it but in my view it's past its best before date”

There is now growing support for a return of the festival in 2011 although the current company directors are not planning to bring it back although the company has not been officially wound up.

Ms Bowerman, company chairman, has described the festival as a 'political hot potato' which had divided opinion in Emsworth and that resurrecting the event would be an uphill battle due to spiralling costs and red tape. She is quoted as saying,

“Taking on the event required a huge amount of organisation, including organising a large number of wardens and sponsorship deals. She said: 'It's time for new people to come forward and raise the money, go to the council and the rest of it.”

There can be little doubt that the festival was an enormous asset to the town, an assumption supported by the face to face visitor survey conducted by the company during the 2006 event. (Read it HERE) and the recent online survey HERE which showed overwhelming support for the festival’s return.

In Ms Bowerman’s view,
"'New blood' taking on the organisation of the event could be the only glimmer of hope for the festival's future.”

In spite of our local councillor’s negative and largely uninformed opinion it seems to be the case that what now is the opportunity for someone to step up to the plate and organise on the festival’s revival for the enjoyment of our residents and visitors alike to the benefit of the Emsworth business community.

The obvious question is – 'Is there any one out there to take on this task?'  Emsworth Online is confident that such a person would receive the support of the army of volunteers who were once responsible for making the festival the success that it was.

Read the article from The News HERE

Comment on this news HERE

23^rd August

Wettest August day for over Ten Years

Sunday 22^nd August proved to be Emsworth’s wettest August day for along time.
Overnight, Sunday-Monday, 4.1 cm (1.6 inches – approximately 66% of the mean August precipitation for the region) of rain fell in a little over one hour reaching a rate of 1.48 mm/min for a brief period at midnight.  However, Emsworth escaped the very strong winds forecast for the rest of the region although standing water on our roads, causing some minor delays on the eastbound A27.

22nd August

En-gauging exhibition is on track to succeed

If you have a passion, or even a passing interest in the history of trains then Emsworth museum is a must-visit this month.

The museum, above the fire station in North StRSS-eolt has a plethora of artifacts, replica models, the layout chart from the now defunct signal box at Havant and information about the early days of rail travel in Emsworth and the surrounding areas.

Put together by transport enthusiast, and Emsworth resident Margaret Rogers, the exhibition which started on Saturday (July 31), is open until August 31. The 76-year-old

took a doctorate two years ago at university specialising in transportation, and then she felt compelled to tell the story of Emsworth's rail history.

She said: "When I retired I thought I can do something on what I would like to do.

"I have always been interested in transportation I did a doctorate on travel which included trains, everything on wheels, you name it, it moved it was there.

"We have got quite a lot of good artifacts." There are also a number of early photographs of trains and drivers from resident Alan Bell who has kindly lent them to exhibition.

The museum is open 10.30am to 4.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays.  The exhibition closes on Sunday 29^th August.

Source: Ems Valley Gazette August 2010

22nd August

Miniatures will be big reminder of sacrifices

 Emsworth's war memorial `Absence' has been recreated in the form of 99 handcrafted miniatures which will go on sale at the end of the month.

The Absence sculpture was installed at the Emsworth Memorial Garden in 2006. It is in the south-east corner of the Horndean Road recreation ground. The sculpture shows a soldier silhouetted into a sail shape. It is the work of Yorkshire-based artist Michael Johnson whose inspiration came from visiting the village.

As a result of the interest generated by the sculpture, Friends of Emsworth Memorial Garden have commissioned a limited edition of just the miniature replicas, each a work of art in its own right.

The chairman of the Friends of Emsworth Memorial Garden,

Viiginia Wilson-Smith, said: "It ceryainly is a work of art which is linked to Emsworth. Once the 99 have gone then that's it.
"It grew from somebody asking: `Can I get a little replica of the sculpture?'
"I thought if we are going to do it, we should do it nicely."

Each will be numbered and have its own correspondingly-numbered Certificate of Provenance signed by I lie artist guaranteeing its authenticity.
The seven-inch tall sculptures will be made using the same stainless steel material and the same processes used in the creation of his original. They will be unveiled at the Emsworth Show on August 30. The price has yet to be announced, but it has been indicated there will be a special launch-day-only price Availably to visitors at the popular show.

For information about how to buy a miniature after the show, call Virginia Wilson-Smith on 01243

Source: Ems Valley Gazette August 2010

20th August

Keep an Eye out over Emsworth this Afternoon

THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL FLIGHT WILL COMPLETE AN HISTORIC BATTLE OF BRITAIN STATION TOUR IN COMMEMORATION OF 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN TO DAY.

A former Battle of Britain Station Overflight tour by BBMF - Spitfire P7350, the oldest airworthy Spitfire and the only Spitfire still flying to have actually fought in the Battle of Britain and Hurricane LF363, the last Hurricane to enter service with the RAF will join in formation with Spitfire AB910, which flew over 143 operational missions in WWII and Hurricane R4118, the only Hurricane from the Battle of Britain still flying. The aircraft will tour key Battle of Britain fighter bases, PDF of proposed route

The flight is scheduled to fly over Thorney Island at 16.44hrs (4.44pm) this afternoon.

Source: Battle of Britain Memorial Flight 19-Aug-10

18th August

A Snippet of Local History

A video clip from an advert for a collapsible caravan from 1959
Ken Strugnell, then a scooter engineer, was filmed riding his Lambretta scooter from Emsworth to Bosham Quay, to advertise a new fold-away caravan in 1959.

The advert, made by Pathe for the Southbourne Sheet Metal Company, showed Mr Strugnell, then 26, ride his scooter towing the caravan, with his 'wife', and 'daughter' in a sidecar.

The fold away caravan way not a success and failed to catch on.
 

Read the whole story in The News 17-Aug-10

17th August

Help us preserve a piece of Havant's railway History

A small piece of a town's history may be lost unless urgent support is offered to bring it back to its former glory.

The old Havant signal box is a Grade II listed building which, supporters believe, could draw railway enthusiasts and tourists to the town if given plenty of care and attention.

For several years the Havant and Bedhampton Community Board has been fighting to retain the building and there was talk of raising funds to move it to another area.

That idea has been scrapped and the intention is to keep it where it is but the public's help is needed to do it.

David Webb, chairman of a sub-group of the Havant and Bedhampton Community Board, said: 'This is a very important part of Havant's heritage.

'It is a gem that needs to be smartened up and at the moment we're trying to enthuse people to get involved in the project.

'We must form a trust which we are naming the Havant Signal Box Preservation Society and once that is set up we can apply for funding from a number of organisations.

'We want to do some modifications and turn the first floor into a railway museum.'

A similar project in St Albans, Hertfordshire, cost £200,000 and although it is a lot of money Mr Webb says he believes it will be worth it.

He added: 'We have already applied for a small amount of funding from Hampshire County Council via Cllr Ann Buckley which is helping us get going.

'Now we really need railway minded people in the local area to step forward and make this idea a reality.

'Once that is done we will make a formal request to Network Rail to transfer this asset to the trust.'

The building, which has stood since 1876 until Network Rail modernised its signalling in 2007, is just north of Havant railway station.

Historic images which capture the signal box in its hey-day are available online at www.havant.gov.uk/havant-2879 .

Anyone interested in joining the trust should contact Mr Webb on (023) 9248 3162 or email Dwebb7@sky.com

The News 17-Aug-10

15th August

A sticky End!

Range Rover driver gets stuck in the mud.
A rather stupid and inconsiderate motorist decided to take his Range Rover or a spin along the foreshore at Nore Barn Woods yesterday evening. The barrier being locked shut as usual he decided to drive across the salt marsh and through the mud leaving deep ruts. Returning later and taking a broader sweep at the obstacle the vehicle  became well and truly stuck just short of the shingle beach. Unattended and still stuck at 9.00pm the vehicle was later towed out.

Local residents were incensed by this inconsiderate and irresponsible behaviour damaging the marsh in the Chichester Harbour ANOB with total disregard for the local byelaws.

13th August

Havant’s Mayor Encourages Veterans To Come Forward       

The Mayor of Havant, Councillor Yvonne Weeks is asking veterans living in the borough to attend a reception that will be held in the Civic Offices later this month.

Former service personnel along with a guest are being invited to the event on Thursday 26th August, between 2pm and 4pm in the Civic Suite. Wearing medals is optional for all those attending.

The reception that will include afternoon tea is part of the Mayor’s commitment to one of her main charities this year: The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.

The Mayor of Havant, Councillor Yvonne Weeks says: “I was inspired to set up this event after meeting service personnel at the recent Emsworth Medals ceremony that was organised by 58 (Eyre’s) Battery. I’d urge veterans from across the borough to contact the Mayor’s secretary to find out about attending, I’m keen to recognise the valuable contribution they have made to our local community during their time in the armed forces.”

Source: Portsmouth news.tv 13-Aug-10

12th August

Work Begins On The PSV

Initial work for the Havant Public Service Village (PSV) will begin on Monday 16th August when contractors will move existing gas, electric and water services and drains on the Civic Centre site in preparation for the main construction work which begins in October.

A reduction in car parking spaces available at the front of the Civic Offices will be unavoidable when this work takes place.

There will be disabled bays marked out as close to the building as possible. Temporary changes to the reception area will take place in early September over a series of weekends, to enable access for customers and visitors to the Civic Offices to continue during working hours.

The work carried out through August and September will enable the contractor to have clear access to begin the first phase of the PSV in early October. Morgan Sindall is the preferred contractor for the main contract and the agRSS-eolment to finalise the contractual arrangements is currently being prepared.

This is just the beginning of redevelopment of the Civic Offices into a high quality, welcoming and attractive place for customers.  A ground breaking partnership between Havant Borough Council and Hampshire County Council to develop this first phase of the PSV will transform service delivery to the councils’ many customers by bringing together a range of public and voluntary services in one location and help regenerate the town.

It will also make the building even more energy efficient with reduced running costs, and will contribute towards a reduced carbon footprint for both councils.  Being able to accommodate the relocation of over 250 social care staff and other front line staff from Hampshire County Council, in addition to the 420 mainly Havant Borough Council employees based in the building, will enable a new streamlined and more efficient way of working supported through the use of new technology and flexible working practices.

During the construction and refurbishment works, services to the public that are provided by Havant Borough Council, Hampshire County Council Highways and Havant Citizens’ Advice Bureau will continue from the Civic Offices although there will be changes to the layout of the reception, car parking arrangements for visitors and staff, location of staff teams and the location of committee and other meetings held by Havant Borough Council. The NHS Learning Disability Service which currently operates from Civic Offices will temporarily relocate to offices in River Way, Havant during the refurbishment.

If you require any information about the Public Service Village please contact us at Customer Services on 023 9244 6019 or visit www.havant.gov.uk/havant-10771

Source: portsmouthnews.tv 12-Aug-10

10th August

Ever Wanted To Try Windsurfing?       

Havant Borough Council has organised a series of taster sessions at the National Windsurfing Festival (NWF) on Hayling Island on 4th and 5th September.

As sponsors of this year’s event the Council’s sports development officer, Kyle Hanna, arranged the windsurfing taster sessions for those who have always wanted to give windsurfing a try.

Kyle said: “This is a great opportunity for those wanting to have a go at windsurfing, with all equipment supplied including wet suit, board, and safety equipment plus one and a half hours professional coaching for just £5.00 per person.  It could even be something for the whole family to try!

“A maximum of 10 people per session, aged eight and above, for absolute beginners so everyone starts at first base - so there is no need to be shy.”

Sessions on both days are at 10am, 12 noon, 2pm and 4pm if you are interested please visit www.havant.gov.uk/havant-9762  where you can download a booking form or telephone 023 9244 6021.

Source: portsmouthnews.tv 09-Aug-10

4th August

Emsworth One of Ten of the greatest British heritage sites

Emsworth has been identified in the Mail Online as one of the greatest British Heritage Sites as the home of P J Woodhouse taught at  Emsworth House School from 1904 and lived in Emsworth until 1914.

 Woodhouse used many Hampshire place names as character names in his novels but Emsworth itself actually features in disguise in his novel "Damsel in Distress". Emsworth House School features in "The Little Nugget"
.
PG Wodehouse, England's greatest comic writer, lived for a few years before World War I in Emsworth, near Chichester in Hampshire

CLIVE ASLET, Editor at Large, Country Life, wrote,

 “PG Wodehouse, England's greatest comic writer, lived for a few years before World War I in Emsworth, near Chichester. This oyster-fishing town on the south coast gave him the name of the absent-minded, pig-besotted lord, whose seat is Blandings Castle. Wodehouse's home was called ThRSS-eolpwood, and Freddie ThRSS-eolpwood was Lord Emsworth's son. The topographical connection goes on. ThRSS-eolpwood stands in Record Road, originally called Beach Road: Beach is the name of Lord Emsworth's butler. From Emsworth, Wodehouse on one occasion bicycled the 65 miles to London  -  a feat replicated, in other circumstances, by Bertie Wooster. It was typical of Wodehouse that, though his best books were written in the Twenties and Thirties, he should revert to names he had encountered in the Edwardian Residents Association. In some ways, the world he created around Bertie Wooster glowed with the nostalgia of a long Edwardian afternoon; in other ways, it is timeless.”

Source: The Mail Online 01-Aug-10

30th July

Warning over Emsworth cold-calls

Homeowners have been warned against cold-callers offering to block pave and tarmac their driveways.

Hampshire County Council's trading standards believes traders are cold-calling and dropping off leaflets offering the service in Emsworth.

It warns that traders are not providing customers with the required notice of right to cancel, which gives people a seven day cooling-off period before work starts.

Trading standards also fear these builders may start work without obtaining written consent.

They are now advising residents not to agRSS-eol to work as a result of a cold-call or via a leaflet drop until they have checked everything out.

Trading standards officers say householders should obtain at least thRSS-eol quotes from reputable businesses or traders.

And it advises people to make sure those firms belong to a recognised trade association, such as the Hampshire County Council Buy With Confidence Scheme.

Anyone has information about traders who may be cold-calling or requires advice on doorstep crime, can contact Hampshire County Council's Quick Response Team on 01962 833666.

The News 30 July 2010

27th July

The Chilli Jam Company has been rewarded at The National Great Taste Awards

Local company wins two star award for “Oil Fired”

“Oil Fired” Is an exciting cooking oil produced from locally grown rapeseed oil and chillies combine to give the oil its dazzling colour and heat. Produced by The Chilli Jam Company of Emsworth "Oil Fired" is ust right to cook with, spice with, drizzle with and imagine with! “Oil Fired” can be purchased locally from R A Tier, gRSS-eolngrocer, in the High St. and online at: www.thechillijamcompany.co.uk .

The coveted black & gold-star GREAT TASTE stickers adorn thousands of speciality foods stocked on shelves and counters in stores throughout the UK and more recently, even as part of a television commercial.

Of all the UK’s food award schemes, the GREAT TASTE AWARDS is the most important. Completely independent and uncompromisingly rigorous, it is trusted by retailers, buyers and consumers. GREAT TASTE is to speciality food and drink what MICHELIN is to fine dining.

In 2010, over 6000 products were judged over an intense two-month period. The Awards’ organiser, the Guild of Fine Food constantly refines the judging mechanics and this year was no exception. Before gold is awarded, a minimum of eight experts, often 16 taste, discuss and agRSS-eol. For two- or thRSS-eol-stars, up to 20 judges must unanimously agRSS-eol an entry has achieved absolute perfection. Over 350 experts including key buyers, retailers, chefs and food writers blind tasted entries to ensure they are fairly and independently assessed. Every entry starts with 25 points and marks are deducted when faults are identified and constructive feedback offers suggestions to the producers how entries could be improved.

The Chilli Jam Company was established in Emsworth in 2004 by Tessa and Sue. Tessa has a long established and very successful catering business, combining her culinary expertise with existing kitchen facilities. Sue spent sevResidents Associationl years in Africa growing chillies and developing innovative chilli recipes. On her return to Emsworth she met up with Tessa again and all their experiences and qualities went into the melting pot and The Chilli Jam Company was born.

After first tastings at The Emsworth Food Festival in September 2004 evoked an overwhelming response  production began the following December.

Source: The Guild of Fine Food Association

26th July

26th July

Rubbish and Recycling Collection Change

Havant Borough Council is making changes to the rubbish and recycling collection service as part of its approach to reducing the council’s carbon footprint, as well as providing a more cost effective well-defined service.

The new improved service will mean that collection times and days may change from October 2010.

Residents in the borough will receive a letter during September with exact details of how these changes may affect them.  Not everyone will have a change in collection day, but the times in which your bins are collected may change.

he change will start week commencing the Monday 4th October 2010.

A letter will be sent to all households in September, informing you of your last collection under the old scheduled collection day, and what your new collection day will be. You will be informed whether to present rubbish or recycling to coincide with the new rounds.

Following the successful introduction of Alternate Weekly Collections in the borough, Havant Borough Council now needs to make your rubbish and recycling collections more efficient.  In order to provide a more cost effective well-defined service, keeping Council Tax increases to a minimum and to reduce Havant Borough Council’s Carbon Footprint, making us more environmentally friendly.

The change will start week commencing the Monday 4th October 2010. You will receive a letter in September, informing you of your last collection under the old scheduled collection day, and what your new collection day will be. You will be informed whether to present rubbish or recycling to coincide with the new rounds.Source: Havant Borough Council

24th July

NHS' new plans for Havant hospital

A PLANNING application for a new community hospital in Havant is set to be submitted in October, senior health officials have revealed.
The original plans for the Oak Park Hospital which were scrapped last autumn,

Inger Hebden, director of capital planning at NHS Hampshire, said her team were working on a hospital "to be proud of."

More than £3million will be spent on transforming Oak Park Children's Centre, in Lavant Drive, and an extension will mean thRSS-eol-quarters of it will become space for a community hospital.

If approved, the new hospital could be up and running by autumn 2012.

"It looks like a modern clinical building. Borough councillors were angry when news of the delay first surfaced last year, with a campaign launched to put pressure on the health authority.

Source: Hayling Islander

23rd July

Emsworth Business Association Summer BBQ

The EBA summer BBQ looks to become a regular feature in the calendar.
Last years BBQ raised £450 for he “Help The Heroes” charity  This year the event will take place at The Lord Raglan on Sunday 1st August 2.00pm - 6.00pm and the  will be raising funds for St Wilfred's Hospice. Tickets are available  from: Classy Cooks, Emsworth Hardware, Treagust Butchers and the Brookfield Hotel -  Adults £10 Children( under 10) £5 to include a glass of wine/ soft drink and Food.

Food Festival directors remain silent

Emsworth residents dismayed by decision to "wind up" the Food Festival.
Since publishing the news that first the Food Festival might be revived in 2011 (March 24th) and then that the festival is to be "wound up" entirely (May 18th) Emsworth Online has awaited a formal statement from the directors first promised by their chairman Ms Bowerman over two months ago. Concerned Emsworth residents who responded to the first article were unanimously in favour of the festival’s return others have raised  particular issues regarding the festival’s demise questioning the propriety of the directors’ decision. Further issues raised have included:

Read what others have said about the Food Festival's final demise HERE

22nd July

A Busy weekend in Emsworth is coming up

Lots happening in Emsworth this weekend!
A last opportunity to see “ Maps,  Prints and Stories” Exhibition by Clive Pugh and Wendy Bright at Emsworth Museum in North StRSS-eolt. The exhibition demonstrates the pleasure and amusement that collecting maps and prints can bring. On display are ordnance surveys of Emsworth and Westbourne with their errors Indicated, and old maps and prints and clues on how to date them, classic sea Charts, and cartoons and caricatures.

Next door in the Community Association on Saturday you will find  The Quilt Show by Bourne Quilters 10.00am - 4.00pm Many glorious quilts to see, a Sales Table to tempt you, refreshments, Demonstrators and traders and a Raffle Quilt in aid of the Rowans Hospice.

Finally, on Saturday at International House in the Square Local artist Louise Russell is exhibiting her work. Louise works in a variety of media including oils, watercolours and felt tip.

16th July

Snow problems in Emsworth will be dealt with in future

We may be in the middle of summer but councillors are already planning for the next snow storm.

Havant Borough Council is drawing up plans to cope with future severe winters like the one experienced earlier this year. It has highlighted the need to clear major car parks for workers and shoppers after a report into January's snowstorms revealed the council lost around £15,000 in car park revenue.   During the period of heavy snow in January car park income throughout the borough was down by around £10,000 and fines by approximately £5,000.

Tony Cailes, technical services manager at the council, said that in future the most important council run car parks for shoppers and workers must be cleared.

In Emsworth top priority will be gieven to the Car Park in South StRSS-eolt.

Councillor Jenny Wride, who is in charge of transport at the council, said: 'We did not actually have a car park winter maintenance programme simply because we have never had such extreme weather.  

'But then we must focus on our responsibilities, particularly the car parks.'

The plans were agRSS-eold at Havant Borough Council's cabinet meeting the Civic Offices

Source: The News 16-July-10

14th July

TOPIC coming to Southbourne

A NEW mobile information service offering advice and support to older residents in West Sussex will be in Southbourne on Friday July 30.

The Older People’s Information Centre (TOPIC) will be at Age Concern, New Road, between 11am-2pm to provide information and advice on a range of issues that affect older people, including:

• Pensions and benefits.
• Keeping warm.
• Home fire safety.
• Health and wellbeing.
• Local groups and activities.
• Days out.
• Support for carers, practical help and much more.

Advice and support will be available from West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service, the Pension Services, Chichester District Older People’s Partnership, Disability & Carers Service, Chichester Community Partnership Team and Action in Rural Sussex.

TOPIC was devised by Derek Covill, a Community Fire Protection Advisor with West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

He said: “The thinking behind TOPIC is that the Fire and Rescue Service and other agencies can ensure help and information is reaching those people in more rural locations who may not normally have such easy access to it because of transport or disability.

Peter Evans, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “I would encourage carers, nurses, health visitors or any group that regularly visit or care for older or disabled people ito come along so they can hear more about the services available. Where appropriate individual appointments to visit people in their home can be made.”

No appointment is necessary and fRSS-eol refreshments will be provided.

Further information can be obtained from Derek on 07921 291170

2nd July

A Celebration of Eight Hundred years of History

St Mary's Church, Chidham Flower Festival
Dating from the thirteenth century St Mary's is celebrating eight hundred years of Christian worship with a spectacular flower festival this weekend. Entry is fRSS-eol but donations to the upkeep of the church are welcome. The festival is open at the following times: Friday & Saturday 10am - 6pm and on Sunday 12noon - 6pm.

30th June

One Step Closer
After many years of planning and fund raising a planning application has now been submitted for the new Baptist Church building.

Located on the NE corner of the intersection of North StRSS-eolt and the A259 the new building will provide an impressive and welcome addition to on this very prominent site. The existing church hall, dating from the eighteen seventies will be demolished to make room for the new building whilst the existing chapel will be retained. The building will be modem in outlook but also one that will fit well with the character of Emsworth, particularly with the conservation area which lies just south of the church development. It is intended to make the building as ‘gRSS-eoln’ as possible, essential for the long-term success of the project both in terms of the environment and running costs.

The auditorium will be linked to the stRSS-eolt frontage by a large circulation foyer space, capable of accommodating spill out for 300 people from the auditorium. The design of the foyer I will ensure intResidents Associationction between the high stRSS-eolt and the Church; fulfilling roles as a social meeting space and as an addition al hall for dining and multi purpose use. It should incorporate a reception area with room to display posters and notices.

The Church has a wide reaching presence in the local community, from the young to the old, and the improvement of this facility will have a positive impact on the continuing delivery of these important services.



The location of the proposed development at the junction between North StRSS-eolt and the High StRSS-eolt at the intersection of the A259 Havant Road is an important location for the town.
This sensitively designed building will act as a signpost for the town centre whilst travelling along the A259 and could effectively knit together the urban fabric at this location, a quality diminished by the creation of the A259 roundabout in the 1970s.

30th June

HARBOUR NURSERY FOR SCHOOLS OF FISH

Coming up with the fish were huge quantities of crabs. Dominic Longley of the Environment Agency, said this was a good sign of a thriving ecosystem as there is obviously plenty for the crabs to eat! Species of fish caught included Bass, Mullett, Plaice, Gobies and Sand Eels. The team were surprised to find a number of 15 spined sticklebacks, the only marine stickleback.

The project team is a partnership between Chichester Harbour Conservancy, Sussex Sea Fisheries Committee (SSFC) and the Environment Agency. SSFC are responsible for enforcing the Bass Nursery Regulations. Juvenile bass are protected within Chichester Harbour. Fishing for Bass from boats and certain other methods are prohibited within a closed season.                                        

 The Conservancy are keen to collect data on the species thriving under the water. Ed Rowsell, Conservation Officer said, ‘we capture lots of data on mammals and birds but know relatively little about the fish. These ongoing surveys will help us build a knowledge base and ensure that the harbour continues to be a place where juvenile fish can thrive’. Belinda Vause of Sussex Sea Fisheries added, ‘the data we are collecting will also be used by CEFAS for monitoring juvenile Bass in the Nursery area. The Environment Agency are working alongside the other organisations by providing equipment and expertise.

The results of the survey work will be available in due course on the Chichester Harbour website www.conservancy.co.uk .

23 June

Summer Trips on the Solar Heritage

The boat moves to Emsworth for the summer season on the 10 July. One hour trips will be running most days until the end of August.

This is a great way to introduce your friends, family and visitors to the delights of Chichester Harbour. An interesting commentary will tell you about the history and wildlife of this special area.
The boat trips depart from the public jetty and are just £5.50 per adult and £3.50 for children. There is no need to book, but do turn up in good time on sunny days to make sure you get a seat. Departure times are shown on the Conservancy website: www.conservancy.co.uk

16th June

Emsworth Salutes Returning Soldiers

 Under a clear blue sky and brilliant sunshine the residents of Emsworth turned out in their hundreds to salute the soldiers from 58 (Eyre's) Battery Royal Artillery.

 The battery traditionally recruit from Lancashire and Cumbria, but are based at Thorney Island paraded through the town to receive their Afghanistan campaign medals in an historic ceremony.  Led by the band of the Army Air Corps 100 men and women of 58 Battery marched through the town to the square where they were presented with their campaign medals.  As the medals were presented the band struck up Edgar’s “Nimrod” and a silence fell over the centre of Emsworth leaving the many vetResidents Associationns present  with their own quiet memories of their comrades from  campaigns long ago.

 One onlooker was heard to comment: “What a proud day for these lads, it’s good that we can share it with them.”

The parade concluded with a fly past by an Army Air Corps helicopter and the men were enthusiastically cheered by the crowds, which included pupils from Thorney Island School, as they marched off to return to barracks,

A fine end to this unique day when for the first time the battery have been given medals outside of Lancashire or Cumbria where they were traditionally based.

More Photos HERE
Courtesy John Tweddell
& HERE Courtesy John Groom

Watch the Video HERE Courtesy The News

10th June

Fridge of Fear  Comes to Emsworth

A 'FRIDGE of fear' has been created to shock people into good food hygiene.

The fridge will be part of a display tomorrow in West StRSS-eolt, Havant, to highlight the dangers of food poisoning. The fridge shows just what happens when germs get transferred from raw to cooked foods. Havant Borough Council has organised the road show to mark national Food Safety Week.

David Lesser, deputy manager for environmental health at Havant Borough Council, said: 'Every year around 400 people within the Havant area get ill from food poisoning. To help people learn how to prevent such illness we are running these road shows. Anyone joining us can also learn about cooking food properly and avoiding cross contamination.'

The roadshow starts at 9.30am and ends at 4pm. The team will be in St Peter's Square,
 Emsworth, on Friday.

The News 10-06-07

10th June

Havant’s Voice, Your Choice

Coming to Emsworth soon,

Havant Borough Council is asking you, the residents of the borough to come along and voice your opinion on how your council tax money is spent and the way services are delivered.

Brand new for 2010, we will be present at many events and locations to give everyone the opportunity to hear from us how council tax money is budgeted and spent and for you to voice your opinion on what the council should be doing for you.

Sat 5 June – Party in the Park (10am-3pm) in Havant Park
Tue 29 June – Havant Town Centre (Market Day) (10am-3pm)
Sat 10 July – Waterlooville Town Centre (10am-3pm)
Sat 24 July – Water Festival (10am-3pm) at Staunton Park
Wed 4 Aug – Play Day Event (10am-3pm) at Staunton Park
Wed 11 Aug – Hayling Island 3 Church’s Fete (2pm-4.30pm) Hayling Park, Station Rd

Look out for the Council’s Publicity Trailer at these locations which will be full of information that demonstrates the work that we do and you will have the opportunity to ask questions of your councillors that are present.

We are also currently trying to secure a location in Emsworth this summer too!

If you would like further information about these events contact Lee Abraham, Democratic Services on 023 9244 6230.

Havant Borough Council

6th June

Emsworth Explorers find the source of the Ems  - a Sponsored Walk with a Difference.

Fourteen intrepid explorers set out on an Expedition to find the source of the Ems on Sunday morning.
After an exhausting trek through the West Sussex country side the fourteen adventurers and two dogs accompanied by Neil Westbrook, administrator of the Smile for 4Rich Appeal, triumphantly found the source of the mighty river Ems conveniently located close by the Hare and Hounds public house at Stoughton. Together  over £800 was raised through sponsorship and donations for the charity which is the official fund raising body for the Wessex Neurological Centre Trust at Southampton GenResidents Associationl Hospital. This sum will add to the current appeal to purchase cutting edge equipment for Fluorescence Enhanced Neurosurgery.

Star of the expedition must be Dennis Prince of Prinsted who, at 77 was the oldest member,  was treated at the Wessex Neurological unit last year for a broken back,  and completed the walk unaided and had £300 of sponsorship. Dennis and the other members of the expedition would like to thank their numerous supporters and Peter, landlord of The Coal Exchange, for opening early and hosting the expedition before departure.

Wessex Neurological Centre serves a Hugh area including most of the West Country, Hampshire and West Sussex it is even the referral unit for patients from the Falkland Islands who require neuro surgery. Any one wishing to donate to the appeal may do so by following the following link: www.justgiving.com/EMS-EXPEDITION .

1st June

Kleinwort Trust contribute to Eames Farm Education Centre project, Thorney Island

Eames Farm will be promoted as an example of agricultural management – particularly of coastal grazing marsh – within an internationally important conservation area.

This will be of value both to students working within the National Curriculum; to the wider farming and land management community, and to the genResidents Associationl public. The facility will provide a valuable extension to the Conservancy’s existing education programme.

The project will also allow the restoration of traditional farm buildings that contribute to the ovResidents Associationll look of the farm within the landscape.

Eames Farm (170 acres) was acquired by the Chichester Harbour Trust in 2008 and is managed by the Harbour Conservancy. The Trust will pass on the Kleinwort donation to the Conservancy as a contribution towards the ovResidents Associationll cost of the project and it is expected that work on the conversion will begin later this year.

Source: Chichester Harbour Trust

30th May

Aldsworth House Garden Open Day

A hidden Gem just up the road from Emsworth

Dating from 1785 the gardens of Aldsworth House were open to the public for they day on Sunday. SevResidents Associationl hundred visitors enjoyed the  6-acre Victorian family garden being adapted to modern needs by plantaholic owners, with enthusiastic help from terriers and spaniel. Unusual tRSS-eols, shrubs and perennials including hellebores, old apple tRSS-eols, magnolias, roses and 120 clematis. Great views. Carpets of spring bulbs, particularly snowdrops, crocus and daffodils. Gravel and walled gardens. Small arboretum. A brief history of the house and garden sritten by the current owners may be read HERE

27th May
 

Marine Crime Update

Sussex Police Project Kraken Alert

In Chichester Area: Between 20/04/2010 and 24/05/2010 there have been seven thefts of small boats, boat trailers, outboards and inflatable dinghies from Dell Quay, Emsworth, Bosham and Snowhill CRSS-eolk, West Wittering. One dinghy was stolen from a small boatyard in Birdham.

Mariners and local residents are advised to ensure that: boats and equipment are secure and where possible that smaller items such as dinghies are hidden from view.

Remember to: “Lock it and Mark it”

If you witness a theft in progress, do not intervene directly; call the emergency police number 999. For all other enquiries or to report anything suspicious call the number below.

To find out more about Project Kraken, log on to www.sussex.police.uk/kraken  and if you’ve seen anything suspicious call Sussex Police’s non-emergency number 0845 60 70 999 quoting ‘Project Kraken’.

Source: Chichester Harbour Conservancy

19th May

Emsworth Royal Mail Sorting Office Survey   

Royal Mail are reviewing the provision of a service at Emsworth Sorting/Collection office.

I am a degRSS-eol student at University of Gloucestershire and have selected this service as one of the topics I am researching for my DegRSS-eol in Community Engagement and Governance. 

Please take two minutes of your time to complete this on-line survey about Emsworth Sorting/Collection Office.  Completion of the survey is anonymous and you just have to click on the link below, answer ten short questions then click 'done' to send.

Complete the survey HERE

If I get a good response to the survey I will pass the analysis onto Emsworth Residents Association and Emsworth Business Association (and any other interested Emsworth community groups). And they will then know how important the people of Emsworth think this service to be. Your views are therefore relevant in the real world and not just important to me as a student.
 
The survey will close at midnight on  Saturday 5th June 2010.

Thank you for contributing to the survey, Vendy Treagust.

19th May

Blood donors needed in Emsworth

Donors are needed to give blood to help save lives.

The next blood donationsessions take place at theEmsworth Community Association, North StRSS-eolt on 21st May & 19th August. The session times are at :13:30 to 15:25 & 16:30 to 19:15. 

18^th May

Food Festival is to be Finally Wound Up?

Has the Food Festival met its final demise?

Since it was announced in March that Ms Bowerman and her fellow directors where seeking to consult over the possible revival of the festival in 2011 Emsworth Online received reports in early April that the festival is to be wound up and that there would certainly be no festival in 2011.

Emsworth Online has approached the directors for further elucidation and has been told that an “official statement from the directors” will be issued shortly.  To date no such statement has been received so it is impossible to confirm this story. One is left to wonder who has been consulted and how far the directors are really in touch with the strength of feeling about this issue amongst the residents of Emsworth.

Feedback from our story published in March shows a unanimous support for the return of the Food Festival although a number of respondents questioned the credibility of the existing director’s competence to run and manage it. Details of these responses can be viewed HERE.

The directors' statement will be published in full on this website as soon as it is received.

18th May

Thursday 17th June – 10.00am – 12.30pm, The Spring, Havant

Wednesday 30th June – 10.00am – 12.30pm, Leigh Park Community Centre

Wednesday 30th June – 2.00pm – 4.30pm, Emsworth Community Centre

The road-shows are also a chance to discuss your project ideas with us. Places are fRSS-eol but limited so you will need to book. Please contact: Anna Jarvis, Development Officer, HLF 0207 5916 annaj@hlf.org.uk

13^th May

Anger at plans to build new estate on West Sussex farmland

Emsworth residents have questioned the legality of plans to build 280 homes on farmland.

More than 100 people packed into St James Church, to voice their concerns at plans by Linden Homes to transform Hampshire Farm, between Emsworth and Westbourne.

Campaigners say Havant Borough Council is in danger of 'accelResidents Associationting' housebuilding on gRSS-eolnfield sites, rather than using brownfield sites first.

Emsworth Residents' Association claims there are still 494 homes yet to be built on a number of more sustainable sites in the borough.

Chris Curry, from the residents' association, said: 'Our concern is they are accelResidents Associationting a gRSS-eolnfield site above other sites.’

'As part of this process we produced our policy synopsis and presented it to counsel who advised that the principle of the allocation of Hampshire Farm coming forward now was correct. Mr O'Brien said he was 'very keen' to work alongside Emsworth Residents' Association.

The News 12-May-05

9th May

Tories tightened their grip in what was an historic night for Havant Borough Council.

The political landscape became a brighter shade of blue as the Tories made two gains, one each from Labour and the LibResidents Associationl Democrats, and many councillors increased their majorities

The latest results means the Tories on Havant council have increased their majority from 32 to 34 out of 38 seats.

Cllr Briggs said: 'I am extremely pleased with the result, not only my own results, but the results right across the Havant borough

In Emsworth David Gillett was returned with a vote of 3124 ( 53.4% of the votes cast).

7th May

Local Candidate Romps Home

David Willetts retained his Havant seat and even doubled his majority to 12,000 with a swing of 1.8% from the Lib Dems to the conservatives.

Mr Willetts, who first won the Havant seat for the Conservatives in 1992, said he was delighted at doubling his majority.

The political landscape in Havant remains true blue with Labour well and truly squeezed into third place both in local and parliamentary polls in the borough. The 63.2 per cent turnout was just two points up on 2005.

6th May

New Bird Hide at Cobnor

A derelict bird-viewing hide at Cobnor has been demolished and a new one built and put in place for the public to enjoy the many thousands of birds that visit Chichester Harbour each year.

An enthusiastic team of volunteers from the Friends of Chichester Harbour, worked with Rangers from Chichester Harbour Conservancy to erect the new hide. The hide had been designed and built by the Rangers in their Itchenor workshop.

The new bird hide is open to all, to enjoy the views over Nutbourne Marshes. A colourful panel gives photos and information on the birds that might be spotted. Nicky Horter for the Conservancy said, ‘the new hide is a great improvement, this is a lovely, restful spot to stop and admire the view as well as to spend time watching our wonderful wildlife’.

The new hide is dedicated to Joan Edom, who grew up at Cobnor and was instrumental in achieving the Local Nature Reserve designation for the marshes. Joan was the Conservancy’s first conservation warden, as a volunteer and then in an honorary role. Joan set about organising the bird count system in Chichester Harbour which laid the foundation for the vast dataset now held by the Conservancy.

Chichester Harbour Conservancy 06-May-10

30th April

Dramatic Helicopter Rescue

Vigilant Emsworth resident, Jim Cottis, whose home overlooks the sea in Emsworth, spotted a man apparently collapsed in a yacht a couple of hundred metres offshore.  Jim alerted the coastguards who promptly sent a helicopter to winch the distressed sailor to safety,  HM Coast guard, Lee on the Solent, later confirmed that the casualty had been successfully air lifted to hospital.

30th April

28th April

Well and Truly Stuck!

While trying to deliver a load of Hoggin to repair the paths in Nore Barn Woods the driver of a Materials Movements truck did not realise that under about a foot of shingle there is soft mud.  The truck sunk up to its off side front axle and became well and truly stuck with a rising tide.  It took a tow truck with a powerful winch and a smaller tractor to the rear over an hour to retrieve the vehicle after much shoving and pulling shortly before high water.

27th April

Hampshire Farm Planning Application Submitted

A controversial scheme to develop the Hampshire Farm site in the Emsworth Westbourne “gap” has been submitted to Havant Borough Council. After a long period of public consultation Linden Homes has now submitted an outline planning application for 280 new homes on Hampshire Farm, off Redlands Lane, along with a doctor’s surgery and pharmacy, associated access, landscaping and car parking together with 17 hectares (42 acres) of public open space and a new balancing pond. While supported by some in Emsworth on the grounds that it will provide much needed additional housing and create more business for local shops in the town the plans are strongly opposed by Emsworth Residents Association (More HERE).

24th April

GenResidents Associationl Election 2010

David Willetts enjoys his lunch in the Coal Exchange, Emsworth

Unperturbed by the BBC swingometer’s prediction that it would only require an 8% swing to labour for him to loose his seat Tory candidate, David Willetts, concentrated on his lunch after a morning canvassing in Emsworth.  Happy to enjoy his seafood salad in which “the crayfish did not die in vain” in a “real pub” with “real people”, David was confident that he would be re-elected on May 6^th to continue to serve the people of Havant.

23rd April

Emsworth Celebrates St George's Day

Flags waved and children cheered as thousands turned out to celebrate St George's Day pride.

An hour later the parade began with children from Thorney Island School excitedly making their way down Queens StRSS-eolt, ahead of 47 Regiment RA, beaming and waving their flags wildly.

And as a huge tank trundled down the stRSS-eolt the crowd cheered and whooped in appreciation as the village celebrated its second St George's Day parade.

The parade was accompanied by the Royal Artillery Band, 40+ vetResidents Associationns of the Korean War and school children from local primary schools. Flags and bunting adorned the town and about 3000 residents and visitors turned out to welcome them in beautiful weather and show appreciation for their unstinting duty in Afghanistan and elsewhere.

The parade was in the presence of the Mayor of Havant and the Commanding Officer of the Regiment. They presented the Imjin Flower to the regiment and vetResidents Associationns that fought in that sometimes forgotten battle along the Imjin River on 23rd April 1951 when so many lost their lives.


Otganissed by the Emsworth Business Association, Brendan Gibb-Gray, councillor for Emsworth who helped organise the event, said he was delighted at the number of people who turned out.

A stRSS-eolt collection for Help for Heroes raised £2,060 in just one hour.

The genResidents Associationl consensus amongst the onlookers was that this splendid event should become a regular fixture.

See the Business Association's photos of the event HERE

23rd April

Chidham Parochial Primary School is celebrating its 100th anniversary on the present site.

The first Chidham Primary School was founded in 1846 by the Rev G Walker; it is now a private home known as  ‘Belfry Cottage’. The school moved to the present building in September 1910.

AN EXHIBITION is being organised to mark the centenary. This will feature archive photographs and work which the children will be producing as they seek to tell the story of the school during the past hundred years.

The exhibition will be open to the public on Saturday 17^th July from 10.30am to 2.00pm. This will be followed by a special reunion event for past staff and pupils from 2.00pm until 5.00pm. Anyone who would like to attend is asked to contact the school so that we can send more details about the event.   Please telephone the school 01243 572380.

The school would be delighted to receive any information, photographs or memorabilia that relate to the history of the school which could be loaned and included in the exhibition. It is our ambition to build a video record of ‘school memories’ and we would especially like to interview anyone who would be prepared to tell us their story. 

Admission to the exhibition will be fRSS-eol and tea, coffee and cakes will be on sale.

Our celebrations will continue into the Autumn Term as we mark the first day at the new school which is noted in the school log book on the 26^th September 1910.

We are planning an ‘Edwardian’ day during which there will be a special visit from the Bishop of Horsham who will lead a short service of thanks and will unveil a sculpture which has been specially commissioned to mark the occasion. The original two roomed school was opened on 26^th September 1910 and the school was extended in 1934 to provide two further classrooms.

 The school has evolved and moved ahead with the times and in recent years the school has again expanded with the addition of a new class room in 2000 and a new sports hall which was opened in 2006. The school has also developed a large new outdoor play area.

The most recent plan, to coincide with the 100 years celebration, is to be the refurbishment of the school library area.

We have moved a long way from the slates which were used to write on, the open fires and outdoor water pump of 1910.

Lynda Aplin
(Head Teacher)
www.chidham.w-sussex.sch.uk
 

10th April

Election 2010

Havant Climate Question Time - an opportunity to question the candidates

Friday 16th April, 7.30 pm at the Spring, East St Havant. All welcome. Any questions on the environment and other matters to Havant's prospective MPs

The Panel:

· David Willetts MP

· Alex Payton-PPC Lib Dems

· Rob Smith-PPC Labour

Are you concerned about:

Climate change, Renewable energy, GRSS-eoln taxes, Fuel poverty, Packaging, GM foods, Peak oil, Fair trade, Wildlife protection, Air quality, Public transport, Recycling, Housing development, Supermarket power and more?

Seats are limited so please call 01243 372887 or email havantfoe@talk21.com to book your place. ADMISSION IS FRSS-eol (Sponsored by Havant Friends of the Earth)

Also Portsmouth News is organising a series of meetings with candidates. The first one is in Waterlooville Community Centre at 6.30 pm on Friday 9^th April and then others are organised in Gosport on Monday 19^th April, Fareham on Tuesday 20^th April, Portsmouth south on Wednesday 21^st April, Portsmouth north on Thursday 22^nd April and Havant on Tuesday 27^th April.

Full details available on their website:

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/newshome/Here39s-your-chance-to-grill.6205102.jp

 Our GenResidents Associationl Election candidates in Havant in 2010 are:

Fungus  ADDAMS	The English Democrats - "Putting England First!"
Alex PAYTON	LibResidents Associationl Democrats
Rob SMITH	The Labour Party
Gary J  KERRIN	UK Independence Party
David L WILLETTS	The Conservative Party

From 1974 to 1992 Havant returned Conservative Sir Ian Lloyd. His popularity peaked in 1987 with a majority of 14,169. He was replaced by David Willets, another Conservative, in 1992.

David Willett's majority fell from 17,584 in 1992 to 3,729 in 1997. However, Willetts improved his majority in 2001 and again in 2005.

6th April

Residents prepare for fight against new homes plan

Thousands of new homes are destined to be built in the Havant borough as a controversial plan for the future of the area is submitted to the government.

Havant Borough Council will hand over the plan that will set in motion how Havant, Leigh Park, Emsworth, Waterlooville and Hayling Island develop over the next two decades.

More than 6,300 new homes have been earmarked for gRSS-eolnfield and brownfield sites in order to meet government housebuilding targets for south Hampshire.

Residents now have six weeks to comment on the document - called the Core Strategy - before it is handed to the government for approval.

Hayling and Emsworth residents have already said they will fight it.

Emsworth has been earmarked for another 752 homes between now and 2026 and Hayling is set to get 597 homes.

Specific sites for the two communities have not been mentioned in the report. But it is possible that up to 50 per cent of the homes could be on gRSS-eolnfield sites.

Paul Fisher, chairman of Hayling Island Residents' Association, said: 'We feel Hayling has already got its fair share.

'Residents feel the island doesn't need the development. We feel further housing strains the infrastructure of Hayling and the road system.

'We feel Hayling is a special case because it's an island and the nature of the bridge and road.'

Lorraine Clode, chairman of Emsworth Residents' Association, said: 'There are strategic gaps between Emsworth and its neighbouring communities which we want to protect.

'Our main concern is sacrificing these. We are realistic. We certainly don't oppose every single one. But it's a big number for a small town like Emsworth.'

Plans also include 1,825 homes in Havant, 1,021 for Leigh Park 1,021, and 1,901 in Waterlooville, which will be the Major Development Area.

The council has identified that many of the homes could be built between 2012 and 2017.

Councillor David Guest, who is in charge of sustainable development in Havant, said: 'We have met the requirement for the allocation and proved we can allocate them. But every s site will be considered on its merits, as any normal planning application.'

Cllr Susan Stocker, Lib Dem leader in Havant, said she wished the number of homes was less.

'I think it's going to be extremely difficult to achieve these numbers,' she added.

Labour Cllr Richard Brown said: 'My biggest concern is what happens when a developer wants to develop a site. 'There's very little the council can do to refuse it

The News 06 April

3rd April

Christians in Westbourne marked Good Friday by walking through the village carrying a cross.

The annual event, organised by St John's Church, Westbourne and Westbourne Baptist Church, saw 45 villagers walk from Monk's Hill to the centre of the village. They stopped at the Baptist church and the village square for readings and prayers before finishing at St John's. After a short service they enjoyed hot cross buns in the parish hall.

The Rev Frank Wright, rector of St John's, said: "The walk on Good Friday through the village is a remembering and re-enactment of the walk Jesus made from the prison to the place of crucifixion. We carry a cross, nothing like the weight and size of that of Jesus, but to

remind us that human life is carried by him for us and that it will lead him to pain and death. Calling at the churches reminds us that life goes on. God gives us that message in the resurrection."

.
 

31st March

Expedition to find the source of the Ems Announced.

A sponsored walk in support of The Wessex Neurological Centre Trust, Southampton.

Money raised is to be donated to the Wessex Neurological Centre Trust through the Trust’s official fund raising body, Smile 4 Rich Appeal (www.smile4rich.co.uk).

Sponsorship forms can be obtained online at: www.riverems.org.uk  or in Emsworth at:

Further information from: David Linington T. 07506887144
E. david@emsworthhants.org.uk
W. www.riverems.org.uk

30 March

Future of Emsworth Sorting Office hangs in the Balance.

It has been reported that the sorting Office in Emsworth is set to close and the work moved to Havant.  This will mean that Emsworth Residents will be inconvenienced by having to travel to Havant to pay any excess postage and to collect their undelivered parcels.  The village may also loose its dedicated, loyal and friendly team of post office men and women.

Having closed our hospital it seems that another group of faceless bureaucrats is about to close our sorting office!

25 March

Havant LitResidents Associationry Festival cut down to one day event

A litResidents Associationry festival which attracts thousands of book lovers has been put on hold.

Big name authors such as Fay Weldon and Stella Duffy have appeared at Havant LitResidents Associationry Festival since it began two years ago and it is the highlight of the Havant arts calendar.

But organisers decided to take a year off while they apply for funding to make 2011's festival bigger and better, replacing it with just a one day event this year.

David Penrose, chairman of Havant LitResidents Associationry Society which organises the festival, said: 'In 2009, amazingly, around 5,500 people took part and in both years our bank account stayed in the black.

'The success of the 2009 festival took an undoubted toll on the dedicated group that made it happen. In less than a year we could not do that again. It is not only our energy levels that could not take it, but our financial standing too.

'We need time to create a more substantial financial footing and to build a more robust infrastructure for planners, volunteers and Society members to rely on.

'We need to be able to find a project manager in the months leading up to the festival to ensure its smooth running. While many litResidents Associationry figures give their time fRSS-eol or for expenses only, we need to be able to pay competitive fees when we have to.'

It cost more than £12,400 to stage last year's festival when 101 events were held over 10 days in September and October in 23 venues.

Funding came from a number of sources including Havant Borough Council, poetry competition entries, a cultural grant, box office sales, donations, society membership and help in kind from organisations such Portsmouth Water and The News.

This year there will be a one day event on October 2 at The Spring arts centre, in Havant, as well as school activities. It is hoped that by the next festival the event will be granted charitable status

The News 24-Mar-10

21 March

Local Resident Challenges Hampshire NHS

Jim Cottis, a concerned Emsworth Resident has written a lengthy open letter to the new CEO of our local Health Authority concerning the recent decisions about the Oak Park hospital and Victoria Cottage Hospital sites. An abridged version will appear in the April edition of The EMS and the full version can be read HERE.   Jim has also sent his letter to Downing StRSS-eolt, all Hampshire MPs, all Hampshire County Councillors and the local press.

You can let Jim know what you think about this situation by emailing him at: busybeadsemsworth@btinternet.com

Source: Jim Cottis
(Emsworth Resident & Residents Association Committee member)

20 March

Residents plead for better transport to hospital

RESIDENTS have stepped up the fight for better transport to and from Portsmouth's Queen Alexandra Hospital.

In just two hours, 148 people signed a petition to demand a dedicated bus service between Emsworth and hospital.

It comes as many elderly residents are struggling to get to and from Cosham.

As reported in The News, the hospital encourages Emsworth residents to take the train to Havant and then catch a bus to Cosham.

But David Willetts, Tory MP for Havant, has worked out it takes at least 69 minutes - 20 minutes more than it takes to get to Chichester's St Richard's Hospital, which is further away.

Havant Lib Dems have now started a petition, which was unveiled in St Peter's Square, Emsworth.

The petition will be presented to Mel Kendal, the councillor who heads transport in Hampshire.

Alex Payton, Havant's Lib Dem parliamentary candidate, who helped to collect signatures, said: 'A round trip depending on time of day can take up to thRSS-eol hours for many Emsworth residents.

'There are rail links too but they involve long walks for most people, some rather elderly, at each end.

'We think more direct action is now needed to convince bus opResidents Associationtors that a direct service is necessary and viable.'

The petition comes after Havant's Oak Park Community Hospital was scrapped by NHS Hampshire because of a lack of money.

Meanwhile, Emsworth Victoria Cottage Hospital, in North StRSS-eolt, is set to be sold off by NHS Hampshire.

Cllr Kendal told The News that current transport provision was more than adequate.

He said: 'We are sympathetic to Emsworth residents' request and have worked closely with bus opResidents Associationtors, the community transport sector, hospital authorities and Portsmouth City Council to try to deliver the best public transport links to the QA hospital.

'Emsworth is served by two principal services that, between them, provide four journeys an hour to Havant bus station.

'From Havant bus station there are six buses an hour from Havant to the hospital. Using service 700, with one change of bus, Emsworth residents can be at the QA hospital in 37 minutes.'

Cllr Kendal said the authorities and community groups provide patient transport, such as 'Call&Go' for the elderly and vulnResidents Associationble.

He added: 'Over £700,000 a year is spent supporting local bus services in the Havant area.’

The News 20-Mar-10

14 March

Food Festival to Return in 2011? Rumour Sweeps Village!

The hot gossip around the village is that the Emsworth Food Festival will return in 2011. 

It has been reported that the controversial chairman of the festival, Ms Lulu Bowerman, who was responsible for the divisive scrapping of the festival in 2008 is now seeking the views of local businesses and residents as to the possibility of reviving the festival in 2011.
 
After the 2007 festival Ms Bowerman announced that the festival would not take place in 2008 but promised that it would return in 2009. By August 2008 she announced that it would be scrapped all together and would never return but be replaced by quarterly “Sunday Markets" in the South StRSS-eolt car park organised by the Business Association which, having been only partially successful, have now been reduced to just two a year.
 
In 2008,ignoring the overwhelming substantive evidence of the festival’s popularity and success, Ms Bowerman insisted that her decision to scrap it  was correct citing complaints from residents and businesses, lack of financial viability and the hard work involved in its organisation and running.  Perhaps she has had a change of heart or is this all just gossip?
 

 
Leave your views online about the return of the Emsworth Food Festival by following the link below:
 

Comments received can be viewed HERE.

11th March

Chichester Harbour Festival of Working Boats

A fantastic festival showcasing a variety of boats that work in Chichester Harbour will take place on Thursday 15 April. Moored up alongside the public jetty at Itchenor will be at least 15 different boats, with their crews waiting to welcome you on board.

Alongside the jetty will be a variety of boats including high-speed RIBs used by the Chichester Harbour Patrol and RNLI lifeboats. The impressive motorboat used by Sussex Sea Fisheries to patrol the Solent will be there along with a charter fishing boat. A luxury motorboat from Opal Marine will be on show and Cobnor Activities Centre will be bringing their boat which has been specially adapted for wheelchair users. The Hampshire Police Marine Unit will be in force on their equipment-packed vessel Sir James Scott. In addition a solar-powered catamaran and a vintage oyster workboat will all be at the show.

Judi Darley, the Festival Organiser said:

‘We have additional new features at this year’s Working Boats. An art exhibition of work inspired by the harbour will be on show. We are also excited to be able to offer tours of Haines Boatyard. This traditional boatyard looks after many of the harbour’s wooden racing boats such as X-boats and Sunbeams.’

Sussex Police will be using the Festival to launch Project Kraken, a new scheme in Sussex to help prevent marine crime. The Police will also be offering a fRSS-eol postcoding service on the day for marine equipment.

All the fun takes place at Itchenor from midday on the 15 April for two hours. Entry is fRSS-eol of charge. Refreshments will be available. For more information see www.conservancy.co.uk or call 01243 512301.

Source: Chichester Harbour Conservancy

9th March

Thornham Marina has been shortlisted for The Chichester Observer business of the year award!

Thornham Marina are delighted to announce that they have been shortlisted for Business of the year award (up to 5 employees) at the Chichester Observer business awards on the 26th March 2010.

'This award recognises sole traders and small companies whose size does not prevent them delivering excellent service and quality products'

Tethe awards ceremony takes place on on the 26th March at the Hilton Avisford park hotel in WalbertonTV personality Fred Dinenage will be hosting the evening and everyone here at Thornham are really looking forward to the night and meeting all the other businesses in the running.

Have a look at this link on the Chichester Observer website to see more information about the awards: Chichester Observer business awards
 

Source: Thornham Marina

6th March

FRSS-eolze on Council Tax

Residents are set to receive their Council Tax bills from next week, with a nice surprise from Havant Borough Council. The surprise being in the shape of a 0% increase on the Borough Council Tax for 2010/11.

Following a speech by the Leader of Havant Borough Council, Councillor Tony Briggs at a recent Full Council meeting, Councillors agRSS-eold to fRSS-eolze this year’s increase, reducing Havant’s proportion of council tax from 13.6% to13.4%.

This means that Havant Borough Council will continue to provide over 200 services for just £3.71 per week (based on Band D).

Havant Borough Council Leader, Councillor Briggs said “I believe that continued increase in Council Tax is unsustainable given the present economic state of the country. Havant Borough Council will continue to make savings and efficiencies to help keep Council Tax down for residents.”

At the same time as announcing the fRSS-eolze Councillor Briggs set out his aspirations for the borough which will continue to focus on the provision of high quality, affordable and accessible public services to customers in the borough.

The County Council, Police and Fire Authorities have now set their rates and therefore Council Tax rates for Havant Borough for the financial year 1 April 2010 - 31 March 2011 are shown by valuation band below with an ovResidents Associationll increase of 1.8%.

Source: Havant Borough Council

4th March

Bogus Charity collection
The leaflet shown here has recently been distributed through doors in Emsworth. Checking them on ‘Google’ soon revealed that they are not a bona-fide registered charity and the charity commissioners have rejected their application.

Residents are advised not to donate to these profitteers and to give your donations to bona-fide collectors or one of the charity shops in Emsworth.

Source:  Emsworth Residents Association

3rd March

Cruising along the Coast is about to get better

From 1st March, brand new, gRSS-eolner buses have been used on the Coastliner 700 route- serving Portsmouth & Southsea to Brighton via Havant, Emsworth Chichester, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton & Worthing.

The new double deck buses are powered by the latest engine system offering low emissions without any loss in performance or fuel economy.

The buses have a new eye-catching design and offer low floor, easy access for those with mobility problems and room for buggies and wheel chairs.

Source: Stagecoacc

26th February

A public consultation over possible uses for a new hospital site has been branded as flawed after health administrators opted for a different plan altogether.

A councillor says the decision makes a mockery of the survey carried out by NHS Hampshire into the future of Havant's £38m Oak Park Hospital.

Survey forms were sent to residents when plans for the hospital hit the rocks last year.

Cash-strapped NHS Hampshire came up with two cheaper options as alternatives - providing a mixture of services at Havant Health Centre and at the nearby Oak Park Children's Centre.
 
NHS Hampshire now wants all services to be provided on one site at the Children's Centre under a £3.2m plan.

Inger Hebden, director of capital planning at NHS Hampshire, said services would be provided on one site after her team worked out an extension could be built on the Children's Centre.

But, she said, this option only came in after the survey forms had been sent out.

She said Havant Citizens' Panel - a consultative group made up of around 1,500 residents - was contacted for views.

But in East Hampshire, which doesn't have a Citizens' Panel, only residents who had signed up to NHS Hampshire for information updates were contacted. Of the 176 people contacted, around a third replied.

Mrs Hebden said: 'I agRSS-eol it's not as good. There was nothing else we could do in the time we had that was on the same scale as the citizens' panel.'

She added proposals would be outlined in East Hampshire council's May newsletter.

'We are planning to go out and speak to the public in supermarkets,' she added. 'There are more workshops. The engagement is continual.'

A statement from NHS Hampshire added: 'At no time have we withheld information from the Committee and we have endeavoured to be open and transparent throughout. We have been very clear from the outset that it remains our intention to commission a range of locally accessible health services for the population of Havant and the southern parishes of East Hampshire

The News 25-Feb-10

28th January

23rd January
 

£1.2m recycling centre for Havant

A state-of-the-art £1.2m recycling centre is set to be built in Havant.

For years residents have struggled to use the Household Waste Recycling Centre in Harts Farm Way because of poor access.

 

The multi-million pound project will transform the facility with a new dedicated access road, more car parking spaces and more waste container bays.

It will also eliminate the current problem of the recycling centre closing to the public. The county council hopes the new facility will be much more 'customer-friendly'.

Although Havant is the busiest recycling centre out of the 24 in the county, the site has one of the lowest recycling rates because of its outdated facilities.

The county council hopes the new-look centre will help boost the town's recycling rates up to 60 per cent in line with other modernised sites.

Approving the plans, Councillor Ken Thornber, leader of Hampshire County Council, said: 'Hampshire has some of the best recycling and waste disposal facilities in Europe and by making it easier for people to recycle their bulky household and garden waste in Havant, we will be able to build on the success Hampshire has already achieved in this field.

'Thanks to the county's impressive recycling rate, together with our thRSS-eol Energy Recovery Facilities, we have been able to divert almost 90 per cent of household waste away from landfill, making Hampshire the top performing county council in this area.'

The News 23-Jan-10