William Stroud, 1840-1912, Pamber Parish Council chairmanPamber Heath ArchivesKate Stroud, 1876-1964, daughter of William Stroud

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Events (2000-2009) This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v 1.0.

2000, January - FIREWORK SPECTACULAR OVER PAMBER HEATH > Just seconds after the new year began, fireworks erupted all over Pamber Heath, in celebration of the new millennium, continuing non-stop for about half-an-hour. It was a magical time. I have never seen so many fireworks at one time. ITEM 0098 SOURCE: Raymond West's eyewitness documentation.

2000, March - WORK WELL UNDERWAY ON NEW PLAYGROUND > 'Work to provide a new play area at Burney Bit started just before Christmas and is now well underway. The site has been enclosed with temporary fencing for security and safety purposes. The new slide is already in position but a lot of work is still needed to complete the project. The old set of swings at the lower part of the field were removed to make way for the development but the old slide in the middle of the recreation field is not affected by the building work. Youngsters can look forward to improved play facilities in the next few months when the work is finished.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, March, 2000.

2000, April - CELEBRATION FOR 50 YEARS OF PAMBER HEATH SCOUTING > 'Fifty golden years of Scouting history were celebrated by the past and present members of the Pamber Heath Scout group. In the presence of Basingstoke Mayor Lynden Jones and his wife Pamela, more than 150 people enjoyed an evening of reminiscing.' It was a double celebration as the official opening of the newly refurbished Scout den was also on the agenda and all were most impressed with the improvements. ITEM 0166 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 14th of April, 2000.

2000, April - THIEVES SNIFFED OUT BY TRACKER DOG SIMBA > Four thieves raided Pamber Heath Stores in Silchester Road, Pamber Heath, were disturbed by the store owner, drove off in a stolen van but crashed it just down the road and made their getaway on foot. However, they 'stood no chance after police called in Simba the tracker dog and his handler Pc Derek Griffiths.' Simba tracked for a mile-and-a-half across fields and a stream 'shortly after 1am on Tuesday' and eventually found three of the culprits 'very tired and worn out, sat under trees in the middle of a field. A fourth person was subsequently also arrested.' ITEM 0166 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 20th of April, 2000.

2000, June - THEFT OF FENCING FROM NEW PLAY AREA > On Friday, June 9th, six pieces of fencing were stolen from the new play area under construction being built near The Glen, Pamber Heath. ITEM 0166 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 30th of June, 2000.

2000, June - NEW PLAYGROUND OPENED AT BURNEY BIT > 'On Saturday 17th June the temporary fences, which had enclosed the new playground area whilst construction was underway, were taken down and the facility opened for the use of youngsters to enjoy. The new playground has a large slide and several other play items, such as an adventure playground climbing frame and various swings. The whole playground is enclosed with fencing for safety and soft bases are included around the play areas for added protection. I am not aware of an official opening ceremony - that would have been nice. However, the youngsters will no doubt enjoy their new playground for many years to come.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, June, 2000.

2000, July - MAN IN BALACLAVA TRIED TO LURE SCHOOLBOY TO HIS 'DEN' > 'The would-be abductor - wearing a black balaclava - approached the schoolboy as he walked to a friend's house close to the playground between Burney Bit and The Glen at about 6pm on Sunday afternoon. ' The man tried to lure the 10 year-old boy to his 'den' in the bushes with an offer of sweets but when he refused the man fled, after shouting and swearing, towards the junction of Burney Bit and Impstone Road. The distressed boy returned to the play area, told his friends what had happened and was then taken home by a parent supervising a child there. Police are seeking the abductor. ITEM 0166 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette Extra, 5th of July, 2000.

2000, August - MAN CHASES MOTORCYCLE THIEVES AFTER RAID ON SHOWROOM > Thieves stole two children's moto-cross motorcycles from Des Helyar Motorcycles showroom in Pamber Heath Road in a midnight raid on 'Wednesday'. Steve Helyar, son of Des Helyar, gave chase along country lanes and was 'forced to dodge the flying moto-cross bikes as the thieves dumped them on the road.' The thieves headed over the county border and made their escape into West Berkshire. Police are seeking the intruders. ITEM 0166 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 18th of August, 2000.

2000, October - ANNIE CRIPPS REMEMBERED > 'Annie Cripps of Pamber Heath sadly passed away on Sunday 1st October. She had married George Cripps in 1922 and was the daughter of Albert and Esther Monger who once lived in the cottage that became number 10 Burney Bit, so had probably lived in Pamber Heath all of her life. She had four children, Rosa Maud, Albert, Doris and Eileen. Sadly, Doris had died when only a child. George served in the Royal Navy during the Great War but later became a sawyer. George and Annie lived in a cottage in Impstone Road. Annie was well-known by the older villagers and much-loved by all who knew her. She will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. The funeral took place at the Tadley Old Meeting church on the 5th of October, 2000 and she was buried in the graveyard there.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, October, 2000.

2001, February - NEW HOME WANTED FOR OLD HARMONIUM FROM ST. LUKE'S CHURCH >  An old Victorian organ, known as a harmonium, is in need of a new home after being in use at St. Luke's Church, Pamber Heath for 30 years. It is no longer needed as a piano is now used at the church. Churchwarden Vic Latson said: 'I have been trying to find a home for it for the last 12 months. If I can't find a home I will have to smash it up, which would be a real shame'. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 2nd of February, 2001.

2001, April - POLICE HURT IN BURNEY BIT BRAWL > Police officers were hurt after being called to a house in Burney Bit where an argument had broken out following a 40th birthday celebration at the nearby Pamber Heath Memorial Hall. A policeman was punched in the face and another was struck across the ribs with a baseball bat. 'Reinforcements rushed to the scene and the violence was eventually contained'. The two officers were treated for cuts and bruises at Basingstoke Hospital. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 30th of April, 2001.

2001, June - DEATH OF FORMER PAMBER HEATH RESIDENT ROY BOWMAN > 'Roy Bowman passed away suddenly at Barton on Sea on the 23rd of June, 2001. The Bowman family lived in Pamber Heath many years ago in a cottage in Burney Bit that stood well back off the road behind the former Gospel Hall, near to where the entrance to Georgina Gardens is today. He leaves a wife Daphne, children Derek and Paul as well as grandchildren Paul and Becky.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, June, 2001.

2001, July - SIX YEAR-OLD CHILD OF ACHIEVEMENT HAS JOKE PUBLISHED > Joshua Hartley of Pelican Road, Pamber Heath, who suffers from a genetic disease, won a Child of Achievement award in February and each of the 150 award winners were asked to submit a joke for inclusion in a charity book that will fund the 2002 Child of Achievement awards as well as provide grants that are given to children throughout the year. Joshua was delighted that his joke would be included. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 6th of July, 2001.

2001, August - CAT SHOT AND KILLED BY AIR RIFLE > 'Police are calling for information on any person who owns an air-powered rifle in the Tadley area after a family's cat was shot and killed.' The Pamber Heath family wish to remain anonymous. Police said this was the second incident in the same street, a cat having been killed in late June this year. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 13th and 17th of August, 2008.

2001, August - PELICAN ROAD PLANNING APPLICATION FOR NEW HOMES > Westbuild Homes has applied for planning permission to build 8 four-bedroomed and 7 three bedroomed houses with garages on land at the rear of numbers 19 to 37 Pelican Road, Pamber Heath with an access road through number 27. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 17th of August, 2001.

2001, August - VILLAGE LOSES POLICEMAN AS WELL AS POLICE HOUSE > 'The village policeman Rock Chesterman is to be the final Pamber Heath policeman and the police house in Burney Bit is to cease being a police house as no further police presence is expected. I have no news as to why we have lost our village policeman but I suspect that it is due to financial savings but it will mean police in Tadley covering an ever-wider area at a time when most people would like to see increasing numbers of police on the streets - not less. This major change was kept very quiet and it seems no villagers had a chance to have a say about this before it happened.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, August, 2001.

2001, September - DEMOLITION OF HISTORIC SHED AT PAMBER HEATH STORES > 'I noticed that the large shed that had existed to the side and rear of Pamber Heath Stores in Church Road for about 100 years, was in the process of being dismantled during the week ending Saturday the 15th of September. The shed was used originally as the stable for the horse belonging to former owner William Benham, the shopkeeper there in the early 1900s. The shed included a store above with an open hatchway, just over the entrance, to facilitate the loading of hay etc. The construction was of wooden planks on a timber frame. The shed is being removed presumably to make room for the building of the planned new house close to the rear of the stores, which I had been told about recently. Well, another piece of Pamber Heath's history has gone forever and I don't suppose it will be the last.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, September, 2001.

2001, October - PAMBER HEATH HISTORY BOOK PUBLISHED> 'My book about the history of Pamber Heath has been published and will be on sale in the local shops as well as at Tadley Instruments in Mulfords Hill, Tadley for the benefit of the people of that area. Over 300 photographs are included and there are diary entries, memories and extracts from old maps. 750 copies were printed as an initial print run. The book is priced at £9.50.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, October, 2001.

2001, December - BUNGALOW PLANS FOR PELICAN ROAD > David Wilson Homes Southern have been granted planning permission to build 3 bungalows in the former back gardens of 15 and 17 Pelican Road Pamber Heath, despite objections by Pamber Parish Council and 5 local residents. Two three-bedroomed bungalows and one two-bedroomed bungalow are to be built on the half-acre site. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 21st of December, 2001.

2001, December - BARBARA AGNES ROSE STROUD  LOSES HER BATTLE WITH CANCER > 'Barbara Stroud of Pamber Heath lost her battle with breast cancer and sadly passed to her rest on the 22nd of December, 2001 peacefully at St. Michael's Hospice in Basingstoke. She had been ill for some time but despite courses of treatment, her condition became terminal. She was born in 1928 - the daughter of Alfred and Edith Miles, formerly of Pamber Heath, and married Jack (William) Stroud in 1949. She leaves Jack and children Pamela (my wife), David, Robert and Christopher.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, December, 2001.

2001, December - NANCY ELIZABETH MITCHELL REMEMBERED > 'A person who had lived in Pamber Heath most of their life has sadly departed this world. Nancy passed away peacefully at the Arkle Lodge Nursing Home in Overton on the 22nd of December, 2001. She was the last remaining member of an old Pamber Heath family that had lived in the village since the late 1800s. The daughter of Charles and Alice Stroud, formerly of Burney Bit, Nancy married Joseph Mitchell in 1935 and in recent years had lived in a bungalow at Burney Bit before entering a nursing home. She lost her husband many years ago and now leaves a daughter Joan and son, Alan. The funeral will take place on the 2nd of January, 2002 at 12.45pm, Basingstoke Crematorium.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, December, 2001.

2001, December - DEATH OF MADGE GOODCHILD > 'Only a few days after the village lost two much-loved characters, yet another has sadly gone. Madge Goodchild of Clappsgate Road, Pamber Heath passed away peacefully at home on the 26th of December (Boxing Day). She was the daughter of Harry and Lily Cottrell, formerly of the Pelican Inn and sister to Freda Englefield, who still lives in the village. Madge was formerly of the Fox and Hounds public house in Tadley for many years. She was a mother, grandmother and great grandmother. The funeral has already taken place.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, December, 2002.

2002, January - PELICAN ROAD ESTATE SET FOR PLANNING APPROVAL > The previous plans for 15 homes in the gardens of numbers 19 to 37 Pelican Road was turned down because the density of housing was below the standard required for new homes. Now, 18 are to be built - 6 four-bedroomed, 4 three-bedroomed and 8 two bed-roomed homes with an access road through number 37. A condition is that the present unmade road is made up to an adoptable standard. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, January 9th, 2002.

2002, February - SPEED OF TRAFFIC ON SILCHESTER ROAD CAUSES CONCERN > Villagers have expressed concern over speeding traffic along Silchester Road  but 60 percent of those at a recent public meeting about the issue on the 14th of January voted against a six-month trial of traffic calming measures, which apalled members of Pamber Parish Council. Research is to be carried out to see what else may be done to calm the traffic along Silchester Road. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 18th of February, 2002.

2002, February - PAMBER HEATH BROWNIE PACK SAVED FROM CLOSURE > 'Pamber Heath Brownie pack has been saved from closure after parents volunteered to train as leaders.' The pack was doomed to closure as there were not enough leaders for safety reasons but now the girls of the 1st Pamber Heath Brownies can look forward to the continuation of the pack at Pamber Heath. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 18th of February, 2002.

2002, February - LIZ CRICK MOURNED BY FAMILY AND FRIENDS > Liz Crick, a 43 year-old mother of two from Pamber Heath lost her battle with cancer and died recently. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996 and treatment followed but in 2000 it had been found to have spread to her liver. Treatment followed again but sadly was not successful this time. Her husband Martin described her as: 'a very brave and courageous woman and an exceptional wife and mother'. She had taken part in the Race for Life fundraising event in Basingstoke last year in June. Her funeral took place at Silchester Church 'last week'. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 22nd of February, 2002.

2002, March - BASINGSTOKE COUNCIL INSIST ON PELICAN ROAD IMPROVEMENTS > Following provisional planning approval for 18 homes in the gardens of numbers 19 to 37 Pelican Road, the council planners are insisting that the unmade road, which is basically just a gravel road at present, is made up to an adoptable standard before any development commenced. Planners suggest the developers provide a bond to ensure that the work is completed. Only part of the road is scheduled for improvement and it is unfortunate that the whole of the road is not being made good at this time as it is often in a poor state with pot holes that have to be avoided. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 15th of March, 2002 as well as personal local knowledge.

2002, April - PAMBER HEATH CARE HOME REFUSED EXPANSION PLANS > Milbury Care Services, who operate a small care home in Pamber Heath Road, have been refused planning permission for improvements due to concerns over road safety, inconvenience to neighbours due to parking problems and because the site was too small for the planned expansion. A conservatory, extra bedroom, bathroom and utility room extension and car park improvements were planned. Even an appeal by Milbury Care Services regional manager Eddie Season did not sway the Basingstoke council planners from turning down the application. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 12th of April, 2002.

2002, April - RACE FOR LIFE IN CELEBRATION OF LIZ CRICK > A team of women are planning to run this year's Basingstoke Race for Life in celebration of Pamber Heath mother Liz Crick, who fought bravely to overcome cancer but sadly died in February (see article above). The team, made up of friends and family of Liz, are taking part under the name of 'Liz's Angels' at the fundraising event in June this year for Cancer Research UK. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 26th of April, 2002.

2002, May - PHANTOM CAT SNIPER SHOOTS FOURTH MOGGY > Another cat has been shot with an air rifle bringing the total number of cases in the Jubilee Close area to four in a year. The latest attack was on the 15th of May. Police are appealing for information while in the mean time worried pet owners are keeping their cats indoors. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 31st of May, 2002.

2002, June - DEMOLITION OF 'THE CABIN' > 'Demolition work started on 'The Cabin' this month, a lovely old cottage at number 5 Burney Bit which is believed to have been home to George and Esther Monger in the late 1800s onwards and one of the oldest in the village. Albert and Annie Stroud and family once lived there and the last resident was Pearl Stanley who lived there at one time with her husband Howard and children, Hylton and Elizabeth. The demolition followed the sale and planning application, which was objected to by some locals.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, June 2002.

2002, June - DEMOLITION OF FORMER CULVER'S COTTAGE > 'It was noticed recently that work had started to demolish the old cottage in Church Road, the former home of Reginald and Phyllis Culver. The inner structure made from a wooden building could again be seen as the outside coating was demolished. This was one of three wooden buildings sold by auction at the Old Memorial Hall years ago to be used as homes. Another used to be also in Church Road next to old William Rawlings cottage and the third I was told was occupied by the Belcher family in Pamber Heath.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, June 2002.

2002, June - BROWNINGS MYSTERY DEPARTURE FROM PAMBER HEATH STORES > 'Many locals were surprised at the sudden departure of William and Sandra Browning from the running of Pamber Heath Stores in Silchester Road after many years as no news of an impending move had been spoken of in the village. They were a popular couple in the village and I have no news if they are still living in Pamber Heath or have moved away altogether. This followed the demolition of the old large wooden building to the rear of the premises and a planning application to build a house in its place. They had not been living on the shop premises but were believed to be occupying a nearby house in Church Road, at least at one stage.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, June 2002.

2002, June - THIEVES BREAK INTO CAR AT THE PELICAN CAR PARK > Thieves broke into a parked car at the Pelican Inn car park in Silchester Road and made off with a rucksack and contents. The front passenger window was smashed to gain entry. The rucksack contained a purse with money, credit cards and a driving licence. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 28th of June, 2002.

2002, July - ATTEMPTED BREAK-IN AT PAMBER HEATH POST OFFICE  > Damage was caused when thieves attempted to break into Pamber Heath Post Office in Pamber Heath Road in the early hours of Thursday morning on the 25th of July. The lower pane of glass was broken in the front door and security bars were bent but entry was not gained. This is not the first time that this has happened. At least one similar event happened there some years ago if I recall correctly. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 2nd of August, 2002.

2002, September - STOLEN VEHICLES FOUND IN SANDY LANE AREA > Many stolen vehicles were found at a breakers yard off Sandy Lane after a tracking device fitted to a stolen lorry led police to the site on Tuesday, September the 17th. About 20 vehicles of all types were recovered. Police do not know who owns the site but are making enquiries. Many owners of the stolen vehicles were pleased to hear news of the whereabouts of their property. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 20th of September, 2002.

2002, September - CYCLE RIDE AND WALK TO PRESERVE HISTORIC CHURCHES > Area organiser Ralph Atton was the driving force behind a fundraising event to raise money for the Hampshire Historic Churches Trust. Parishioners cycled or walked from church to church for the event, half the money going back to the fundraiser's church - in this case St. Luke's Church in Church Road, Pamber Heath. Last year £3000 was raised for St. Luke's repairs and refurbishments. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 27th of September, 2002.

2002, October - PAMBER HEATH BROWNIES LOOKING FOR NEW MEMBERS > The Pamber Heath Brownies pack have 17 members but are hoping for new members to join as low numbers limit the activities that can be participated in. Ideally they would like a full pack of 24 with a nice waiting list. Girls from surrounding villages are welcome as the pack is not exclusive to girls living in Pamber Heath. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 4th of October, 2002.

2002, October - POLICE VOW TO CATCH CAT SNIPER OF PAMBER HEATH > 'In the last 12 months, eight cats in Jubilee Close and Springfield Road have been shot with an air rifle."Someone must know who is doing this - it is happening so frequently", said Inspector Steve James of Tadley Police. "Firing a weapon in a public place is a serious matter that could have dire consequences. While it's bad enough that defenceless animals are being targeted, the next time it might be a human being, either accidentally or deliberately." Anyone with information on the cat shootings is asked to telephone Tadley Police.' ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 11th of October, 2002.

2002, October - DISC CUTTER STOLEN FROM A VAN > A disc cutter worth £200 was stolen from a van parked in Silchester Road, Pamber Heath while the owner was digging in the road on Wednesday, October 9th, between 1.30pm and 1.50pm. Police are looking for a blue Volvo, which was seen being driven away at the time. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 18th of October, 2002.

2002, October - DEVELOPMENT IN PELICAN ROAD NAMED AS MITCHELL CLOSE > 'The development of three bungalows in the former rear gardens of numbers 15 and 17 Pelican Road has been given the name of Mitchell Close. The road, which is accessed from Pelican Road, is to remain private.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, October, 2002.

2002, November - WOMAN CHASES HANDBAG THIEVES FROM IMPSTONE ROAD TO MORTIMER > Elizabeth Phillips of Burney Bit, Pamber Heath was collecting a book from a house in Impstone Road. Her car was parked by the drive with the engine running and her handbag on the passenger seat.'Mrs Phillips watched in shock as she saw a male enter her car and take her handbag, before making off with another male in a small white Ford Fiesta.' Elizabeth followed the vehicle to Mortimer where she confronted one of the thieves as he was trying to use a card to get money out of a cash machine. 'She said: "I was screaming at him but I was so angry I physically couldn't do anything".' The pair fled the scene and the bag was later found less over £100 in cash, various credit cards and a mobile phone. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 8th of November, 2002.

2002, November - CASH REWARD LEADS TO CAT SNIPER SUSPECTS > The Tadley Gazette put up a cash reward of £200 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the Pamber Heath cat sniper after yet another cat was shot in the Jubilee Close area of Pamber Heath. Fortunately the cat survived the attack and is recovering well. Posters advertising the reward were put up around the Pamber area, one being put up at Pamber Heath Stores in Silchester Road by owner Jay Patel. Police are following three separate tip-offs given to the Crime-stoppers helpline as a result. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 8th, 15th and 22nd of November, 2002.

2003, February - PAMBER HEATH HISTORY BOOK SOLD OUT > 'The last two Pamber Heath History books from the reprint of 100 copies were sold this month after a steady sale throughout 2002. The reprint was made available in February 2002 after a sell-out of the first print run of 750 copies in October, 2001. Orders are being taken for a possible third printing.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, February, 2003.

2003, April - DEATH OF DAVE ENGLEFIELD > 'Yet another much-loved member of the community passed away recently. Dave Englefield leaves his wife Freda and daughter Jane. Dave and Freda had been living in Pamber Heath for many years after Dave married Freda Cottrell, daughter of Harry Cottrell, who was publican of the Pelican Inn during the Second World War and afterwards. Dave had served in the army with honour and was a member of the village Tug-of-War team in the late 1950s. The couple married in 1946 and celebrated their Golden Wedding in 1996. Freda has treasured memories of her dear husband to help comfort her at this time. He will be sadly missed by many.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, April, 2003.

2003, April - 'THE CABIN' REPLACEMENTS SLOW TO SELL  > 'The recently completed bungalow and two storey house on land previously occupied by 'The Cabin' (number 5 Burney Bit) are not being snapped up and is no surprise to some locals. Despite objections to the planning application, the delightful old cottage was demolished in June, 2002 in what some say is an over- development of the site with two units being crammed in to the space really only suitable for one, leaving rather small gardens in each. This is yet another example of what has been happening time and time again in the village to its detriment in the last 25 years. Every spare piece of land seems to be continually be being built on and the only good news is that surely there can't be much land left to spoil now.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, April, 2003.

2003, April - DEATH & FUNERAL OF EDIE LONG (MONGER) > 'It was announced in the village that sadly Edie Long had passed away on the 21st of April. Edie was 95 years old and the daughter of Frederick and Sarah Monger, who lived at The Laurels (number 7) Burney Bit in the early 1900s. Edie was the widow of William Long and they had once lived in Clappsgate Road and later Impstone Road. Edie spent her latter years living in a bungalow at Burney Bit before entering a nursing home. The funeral was held on the 25th of April at 11am at The Old Meeting (United Reformed Church), Tadley attended by many family and friends. Edie is survived by her son Roy and daughter Joyce.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, April, 2003.

2003, April - BROADBAND CAMPAIGN BY PAMBER HEATH MAN > Gunter Pibernik, a project designer who works at home in Pamber Heath, has set up a website at www.broadband4silchester.co.uk as part of a campaign to bring high speed Internet access to the Silchester telephone exchange for the local area. BT said that 250 people need to register an in interest at their website at www.bt.com/broadband before it can begin work to upgrade the exchange. So far 200 have done so. More locals are being encouraged to register an interest, hence the campaign. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 18th of April, 2003.

2003, April - DIAMOND WEDDING CELEBRATIONS FOR JOE & IVY WHITMARSH > 'Joe 80, and Ivy, 79, celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary yesterday following a special weekend trip to Lowestoft to mark the occasion with their family'. The couple from Heath Road, Pamber Heath, met during the war and married two years later in London. They had two daughters - Marian and Susan. Joe and Ivy worked for BT in Bromley, Kent, for a long time and moved to Pamber Heath on retirement in 1984 to be close to their daughters and grandsons, David and Philip. They have travelled abroad extensively since retirement but now generally holiday in the UK and keep busy with gardening. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 25th of April, 2003.

2003, April - MYSTERY CAT SNIPER STRIKES FOR THE 12TH TIME > Another cat has been shot by the mystery cat sniper bringing the shootings with an air weapon to twelve. Jubilee Close has been the main target area as it was again this time but Springfield Road has also suffered. As well as the suffering to the cats, their owners have been shocked and upset at the hurt to their beloved pets. Police are anxious for information from the public. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 20th of June, 2003.

2003, June - JENNIFER CAPEWELL INSPIRED BY TONY HANCOCK'S BLOOD DONOR SKETCH > Jennifer Capewell of Impstone Road, Pamber Heath was inspired to become a blood donor after watching the comedy show Hancock's Half Hour which had an episode called The Blood Donor around 1961 when she was 18 years old. She has donated blood more than 58 times and is now 60 and a gold member of the National Blood Service. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 11th of July, 2003.

2003, September - CLOSURE OF BUDGENS STORE A BOON TO LOCAL SHOPS > With the closure of the Budgens store in Mulfords Hill, Tadley, the shops in the Tadley area have seen an unprecedented demand for food and other items. For those who used to buy the local paper from Budgens, it was stated that the Tadley Gazette was available in a number of local stores, including Jay Patel's Pamber Heath Stores. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 5th of September, 2003.

2003, September - CAT SNIPER VICTIMS CONSIDERING DRASTIC ACTION > A couple living in Jubilee Close, Pamber Heath are considering moving house or putting their pets up for adoption after one of their cats was shot in the lung last week. The couple's four cats have been attacked five times in the last year and vet bills will now total over £1000. A lot of distress has been caused both to the cats and their owners in the Jubilee Close area and police are desperate for information. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 26th of September, 2003.

2003, October - DORIS AND MAURICE RAWLINGS GO DIAMOND > 'Doris and Maurice celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary on October the 16th. Doris and Maurice have been living in Pamber Heath for many years and Maurice is a descendant of Moses Rawlings, the village chimney sweep of the late 1800s and early 1900s. May they spend many more years together.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, October, 2003.

2003, October - CAT SNIPER REWARD GOES UP TO FOUR HUNDRED POUNDS > The reward to catch the local cat sniper has been increased to four hundred pounds by a couple, who wish to remain anonymous, after their cat was shot in the eye with an air rifle in Tadley. Although it is not thought to be the same person who has been shooting the Pamber Heath cats, they would like to contribute to the reward. The police are keen to hear from anyone with information. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 17th of October, 2003.

2003, October - CELEBRATION AS PELICAN ROAD DEVELOPMENT PLANS WITHDRAWN > 'Dozen's of residents from Pelican Road gathered at The Pelican Pub to toast their success in helping to face down plans to build 11 new homes, including a three-storey dwelling, in their street'. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 17th of October, 2003.

2003, October - PAMBER HEATH BOOK AVAILABLE AGAIN > 'The Pamber Heath History book has been reprinted again in response to many requests since being sold out from the second printing in February this year. Limited stock means this may be your last chance to obtain a copy as it is unlikely to ever be printed again.' To order a copy click on the link on the Home page. ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, October, 2003.

2003 - December - SPECIAL BED WILL ALLOW DISABLED GRANDSON TO VISIT IN STYLE > The Loddon Valley Lions charity have paid more than £1000 for a special bed to meet the needs of Ben, a 14 year-old tetraplegic, when visiting his grandparents Margaret and Andrew Whitehorn of Oakfield Road, Pamber Heath. The couple, who were unable to afford the cost, approached the charity to see if they could help and within a month the special bed was purchased and delivered. Margaret and Andrew are delighted with the bed and are very grateful to the Lions for their kindness. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 5th of December, 2003.

2004, January - FORMER POLICE HOUSE UNDER MAJOR RENOVATION > 'The former Police House in Burney Bit has seen a lot of change recently with major building work for an extension and it now seems a home is to be built to the rear as a driveway to the left is under construction. The work is ongoing and will no doubt be a while before it is completed.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, January, 2004.

2004, January - THUNDER AND BLIZZARD IN PAMBER HEATH > 'On Wednesday the 28th of January in the evening around 5.15pm, there was a sudden increase in wind followed by lightening and thunder with a blizzard - a very rare occurrence in meteorology and has never happened in Pamber Heath before as far as I am aware. The blizzard lasted about three-quarters of an hour resulting in an inch or two of snow, much to the delight of local children.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, January, 2004.

2004, March - JUMBLE SALE GRIDLOCK AT PAMBER HEATH > 'There was gridlock on Saturday the 20th of March with so many cars parked at the village hall for the afternoon jumble sale. One factor was the weather, being a lot of rain at the time. However, it seems the weather did not put people off. The jumble sales are obviously as popular as ever with everyone still attracted by the prospect of a bargain or two. It's no longer mainly the poor trying to make ends meet as it was in years gone by as there were people driving up in BMWs, Volvos and Mercedes - obviously not short of cash! Cars were also parked outside on the road as there was no room on the tarmac car park or the grass area by the tennis courts. Many people had difficulty getting in and out.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, March, 2004.

2004, April - PELICAN ROAD DEVELOPMENT GIVEN PERMISSION > 'Two bungalows are to be controversially demolished to make way for 13 new homes in Pamber Heath, near Tadley.' Planning permission was granted even though one planning committee member was strongly opposed to the plans while another reluctantly voted in favour of them. The objections included being unhappy with the design, the impact on the street scene, overlooking of adjoining properties, the developers not going far enough to make changes to address the committee's concerns, health and safety concerns over access to the Scout den opposite and car parking. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 9th of April, 2003.

2004, April - PENSIONER KEEPS LICENCE AFTER CARELESS DRIVING > 'A Pamber Heath pensioner escaped a driving ban after a court heard that it would make life hard for him and his ill wife.' He pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention and failing to stop after an accident at the junction of Soke Road and Silchester Road on the 21st of October last year. He pleaded against a ban and was therefore fined £170 with and endorsement to his licence of seven penalty points. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 30th of April, 2004.

2004, April - PAMBER HEATH YOUNGSTER ON TV SHOW > Graham Lasham will appear on the TV programme Make it Big  which will appear on Channel Five on Sundays at 10.30am, starting this week, as part of a reality show about children running a small business. Graham acts as managing director of the company. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 30th of April, 2004.

2004, April - HANBY'S SHOP IN TADLEY TO CLOSE AFTER 35 YEARS > Many Pamber Heath residents will be sad to hear of the closure of Hanby's shop in Franklin Avenue, Tadley, loved by the villagers in Pamber Heath - specially the women and children of the village as the wool supplies were popular with the local women while the toys and children's clothes were of great interest to the children. Mary Hancock is retiring and the shop will close as soon as the stock runs down, expected to be within a month or so. Mary was recently awarded an engraved silver plate by the Tadley and District Chamber of Trade in recognition of her service to the community. ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, April, 2004 and ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 30th of April, 2004.

2004, May - VILLAGERS LIKE EVENTS BUT DON'T WANT TO ORGANISE THEM > 'The recent AGM of the Village Hall Management Committee was only attended by one villager and the present committee was re-elected, or should I say just carried on, as there were not enough candidates or villagers present to hold a proper election, showing the apathy in the village when it comes to spending any effort on organising village events and managing the hall. However, the events themselves are as popular as ever with good attendance for most functions. So what's the problem? My personal opinion is that villagers obviously view the job of organising village events and looking after the hall as very boring, of no benefit to themselves, and being unpaid they would rather spend their time doing something more interesting. My experience of charity work had the same problem - everybody was keen on the events but nobody wanted to do the work. The same applied when asking villagers to contribute information for my Pamber Heath History book - only one person came forward but many were keen when I later went to them at their homes. So, what do you think? Are most of us just self-seeking or lazy, or are there other reasons? (I don't really expect to get any answers!).' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, May, 2004.

2004, June - PAMBER HEATH SCOUTS GRANT LIKELY > The Pamber Heath Scout group is likely to be awarded a £700 grant by Hampshire County Council towards the total cost of £1500 for an additional fire exit to their hall in Pelican Road. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 11th of June, 2004.

2004, July - MEXICAN CYCLE RIDE BY DISABLED PAMBER HEATH MAN AND PARTNER > Stuart Melrose, 29, of Burney Bit, who was paralysed in a diving accident in 2002, is training for a sponsored 500km marathon cycle ride across Mexico in November with his 27 year-old partner Lizzie Zuill in aid of REGAIN, which supports paralysed sports men and women. The charity had previously helped him with the cost of a more comfortable and usable wheelchair than those supplied by the NHS. As well as being a challenge, Stuart said it will give him the chance to give something back to the charity. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 9th of July, 2004.

2004, July - BOGUS PAMBER HEATH WEB SITES CAUSING MAYHEM > 'People trying to find Pamber Heath information on a search engine are now having to trawl through a myriad of listings detailing bogus web sites. They claim to be from Pamber Heath or have information about Pamber Heath but are really no more than spam. Companies are using clever ways to attract customers and move their businesses up the search engine ratings but at the inconvenience of users. It is not known if the search engines are dealing with this but it is known that they have already changed the way they rate sites due to past attempts to defeat the system. Other villages have been affected too and we wait to see if anything is done to remedy the situation.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, July, 2004.

2004, July - DEVELOPMENT IN PELICAN ROAD NAMED AS VERICA GARDENS > 'The development in the former rear gardens of 19 to 37 Pelican Road, has been given the name of Verica Gardens. The good news is that the previously unmade part of the road, giving access to the new estate, has been made up to a high standard. The task of negotiating the many pot-holes can now be just a memory and we can look forward to a better driving experience, at least along that part of the road. It is unfortunate that the whole of the road was not able to be funded but Basingstoke and Deane planners obviously could or would not insist that the developers cover the cost of it.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, July, 2004.

2004, August - NEW LEISURE FACILITIES IN MEMORIAL HALL GROUNDS > A pot of money totaling £33,500, from the contributions made by developers building homes in the village, will be used to provide new leisure facilities in the grounds of the Memorial Hall in Pamber Heath, such as a multi-purpose ball wall with surrounding artificial turf as well as a possible skateboard ramp. Improved parking facilities are also likely to be made. The work will be started within the next two years. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 20th of August, 2004.

2004, November - BAILEY'S LAND TO BE DEVELOPED > 'The plot of land occupied for many years by Evelyn and Harry Bailey is to be developed. A planning application for four houses on the site of Shirley Cottage in Pamber Heath Road is in force and if it goes ahead will mean the loss of another piece of Pamber Heath's heritage. This follows the departure of Evelyn to a nursing home some time ago.' See the Memories/pictures page. ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, November, 2004.

2004, November - PAMBER HEATH MAN IN TANZANIAN CHARITABLE BUILDING PROJECT > Matt Dixon, 30, a former self-employed builder of The Glen, Pamber Heath, has been in the village of Kilolo in Tanzania, Africa for more than a year helping to develop the small community there. He has been building a new school and church with the help of volunteers such as those from the Tadley Community Church, who recently went out to help with the project as part of the of the charity Emmanuel International. His 53 year-old mother and 16 year-old sister were among the volunteers. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 26th of November, 2004.

2004, December - ELDERLY MAN SHOWS ROOFING CONMAN THE DOOR > Ivor Tipper of Valley Way, Pamber Heath had an unwelcome visitor 'last Friday around 10.30am' when a man arrived saying he had come to fix some loose roof tiles and claiming it was a follow-up visit from the genuine building company that had actually repaired the roof in September. Mr Tipper, 82, although in poor physical health, had his wits about him, suspected that he was a con man and promptly 'showed him the door'. After checking with his original builder and finding the man's claims were false, he alerted the police, who are now seeking the individual. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 17th of December, 2004.

2005, February - CAT SNIPER CLAIMS YET ANOTHER VICTIM > An angry cat owner of Jubilee Close is devastated after one of their cats was shot with an air gun and it is particularly upsetting as this was the third attack on the owner's cats in the last three months. 16 shootings have occurred in Tadley and Pamber Heath since the attacks began in June 2001. 'Police have conducted door-to-door enquiries at Jubilee Close and Church Road, but have so far found little information on who may be responsible.' ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 4th of February, 2005.

2005, February - IMPSTONE PRE-SCHOOL TSUNAMI FUNDRAISING EVENT > Children from the Impstone pre-school, based in the Pamber Heath Memorial Hall, took part in a sponsored trampoline jump to raise money for children affected by the Tsunami disaster and to buy new education toys for their facility. £450 was expected to be raised and the children thoroughly enjoyed it, completing an average of 95 jumps each. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 18th of February, 2005.

2005, March - PAMBER HEATH TEENAGER ACHIEVES HIGHEST GIRL GUIDE AWARD > Suzanne Jasper of Pamber Heath, a member of the 1st Silchester Guides, has achieved the highest award for Girl Guides - the Baden-Powell Challenge. She had to undertake a series of tasks over an 18-month period, such as organising a party, running a relaxation session, arranging an Irish theme night as well as a trip to Switzerland with her unit and trying snow disking. A sleepover at Silchester Village Hall was held to mark the achievement, attended by 20 Guides. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 4th of March, 2005.

2005, March - GENERAL NEWS UPDATE FOR PAMBER HEATH > 'Two new houses are nearing completion on the plot of land previously occupied by Phyllis and Reginald Culver at 7 Church road, the former bungalow 'Hawthorn' having been demolished. Tadley Common has now been fenced off and cattle are now grazing there to help in its management. Pamber Heath Post Office continues in business in Pamber Heath Road as does the Pamber Heath Stores in Silchester Road. Life continues much the same in Pamber Heath, with social events still being held at the Memorial Hall in Pamber Heath Road. However, older villagers feel that the sense of community that existed in the village years ago has all but vanished, probably due to changing social attitudes and the growth of the village. The phantom cat sniper of Jubilee Close is still at large and there was another shooting a while ago. The bungalow built at the rear of the Old Police House in Burney Bit is completed or nearly completed. No development work has started yet at Bailey's cottage in Pamber Heath Road. The Pamber Heath book was printed for the fourth time late last year and over half the stock has been sold already.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, March, 2005.

2005, March - FAREWELL TO MILKMAN BRIAN BLACK AFTER OVER 30 YEARS SERVICE > 'Brian Black announced in a letter to customers that he would be terminating his franchise for the delivery of milk etc. on Saturday the 26th of March. He had been delivering milk and other goods in Pamber Heath for over 30 years and felt that it was time for a change. His friendly and jovial personality will long be remembered by locals. Brian was very fond of his pet dogs and I remember that in recent times they would accompany him on his milk float each day. He would stop for a while with some customers and many lonely older villagers found him to be of great support to them.' ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, March, 2005.

2005, June - TWO HOUSE FIRES IN THE BURNEY BIT > 'This month saw two house fires in the Burney Bit. The first was caused by a television set catching fire while the owners were not in the room. The lounge was gutted and extensive smoke damage was caused to the rest of the house making the house uninhabitable until repairs and cleaning were carried out. No one was hurt and fortunately the fire was spotted quickly. In the second fire, a piece of toast was left on the grill causing smoke damage while the owner was out. No one was hurt and the smoke was spotted quickly again.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, June, 2005.

2005, June - CAT SHOOTINGS RISE TO 18 IN PAMBER HEATH AND TADLEY > The number of cat shootings in the Pamber Heath and Tadley area have reached 18, with yet another attack in the Jubilee Close area of Pamber Heath - the main focus of the sniper since 2001. 'The most recent incident happened last Thursday between 7.30pm and 7.45pm.' The owner is desperate to find out who is carrying out the attacks and fears her children may be harmed next. Police are still appealing for information and hoping a member of the public can provide a lead. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, Friday 3rd of June, 2005.

2005, June - IMPSTONE PRE-SCHOOL RAISE MONEY FOR CHILDLINE > Children from the Impstone pre-school at Pamber Heath took part in a sponsored pedal push, a cycling event held in the Memorial Hall where they meet, to raise money for Childline. They are hoping to beat the £300 raised last year in a similar event at the school. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 9th of June, 2005.

2005, June - DEATH OF FORMER PAMBER HEATH MAN ROBERT ROLFE > 'It is with sadness that I report the death of Robert Rolfe who lived in Pamber Heath for many years. He died suddenly on the 13th of June and will be sadly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his older brother Alfred. Robert lived in Tadley in recent years but was previously from Pamber Heath, living in the Burney Bit. Robert was a popular figure in the village and the son of Alfred and Ivy Rolfe. He was also a descendant of Charles Monger - one of the early settlers of Pamber Heath. Robert was a friendly character and contributed greatly to the historical record of the village by supplying valuable information and documents for my Pamber Heath History book. He worked as a civil servant until retirement a few years ago and has been helping with the work of the Tadley branch of the Royal British Legion. The funeral service was held at St. Paul's Church, Tadley on Thursday the 23rd of June, 2005.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, June, 2005.

2006, January - GENERAL NEWS ROUND-UP > 'The last six months were quiet in Pamber Heath. There is nothing of much interest to report except for the news that Louisa Benham, a former Pamber Heath resident, has reached 100 years old. On the mundane side, steel shutters went up at the Pamber Heath Stores to help with security - a sign of the times we now live in no doubt. Also, it seems no one much likes barn dances as one due to be held at the Memorial Hall had to be cancelled because of the lack of interest. It is believed that due to a surplus of cash, houses in Burney Bit owned by the housing association began having the tiles replaced on each roof just before Christmas. However, some question whether the project is just for cosmetic reasons and, perhaps, the money could have been better spent on something more useful. Surely there must be some more positive news? - ah, yes, well there was the lighting of the beacon in Pamber Park for the Trafalgar celebrations, attended by about a hundred people despite being a very cold and windy night. However, there was much amusement at the many failed attempts to light the torch which was to set the beacon aflame. The beacon itself was quick to light and a roaring success. There were excellent displays of fireworks on November 5th and some splendid Christmas lights were to be seen adorning homes in the village from December. Also, the Pamber Heath History book sold out for the fourth time and orders are still coming in, even after four years of being published!' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, January, 2006.

2006, February - DEATH OF MYRA FLITTER > 'Myra Flitter passed away peacefully in her own home on Tuesday the 14th of February at the age of 86. She was the dearly loved mother of Howard, Peter and Caroline. Myra was the widow of Hylton Flitter - the son of George and Edith Flitter who once lived at 'The Brook', a cottage which was later given the postal address of 4 Pamber Heath Road. Myra and Hylton were well known in the local community and Hylton, who was wounded in the Second World War and left permanently disabled, worked as a shoe repairer and leather worker. Hylton devoted a lot of time working as a welfare officer for the Tadley Branch of The Royal British Legion. This photograph shows the Flitter family many years ago. George is missing from the photograph and the child is Hylton Stanley - Pearl's son. Pearl lived in Burney Bit for many years. The funeral service was held at the United Reformed Church, Tadley, on Wednesday the 22nd of February at 11:00 am. Myra will be sadly missed.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, February, 2006.

2006, March - DENNIS UPTON PASSES AWAY PEACEFULLY > 'Dennis Geoffrey Upton of Bramley, formerly of Pamber Heath, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday the 30th of March, 2006 at the age of 75 years. Dennis was a member of the Upton family of old Pamber Heath and his father was 'Billie Upton' (presumably William Upton). They used to live at a house known as 'The Laurels' in Pamber Heath Road, at least from the 1930s. Dennis was born there and it was to be his home for 20 years. He attended Tadley Primary School and was a grandson of George Naish of Pamber Heath - the village carpenter and undertaker in the 1930s. Dennis wrote to me around 2001 to congratulate me on my book and in his letter he mentioned that his family had been living in the Burney Bit in 1926, as he recalled that his brother was born there during that year. He said he had a wonderful childhood and still had great affection for Pamber Heath, although everything had changed and the old house had gone but those happy days were always with him. The funeral is to be held at St. James Church, Bramley at 10.30am on Monday the 10th of April, followed by cremation at Basingstoke Crematorium at 11.45am. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, March, 2006.

2006, April - EVELYN BAILEY DIES AT THE AGE OF 98 > 'It is with great sadness that I report the death of a much-loved person, who was probably the last one alive that had lived in the village since the early 1900s. Evelyn Bailey died peacefully at the Bethany Residential Home on Good Friday the 14th of April, 2006, aged 98 years. Evelyn, named Elizabeth Evelyn Wells, was born at Shirley Cottage, Pamber Heath Road on February the 12th, 1908. She was the daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Wells. Her father was a sailor in the Royal Navy and at one time the chief stoker on a destroyer. Evelyn attended Silchester School until she reached the age of 14 years then spent a considerable time at home looking after her mother who had become ill. After her mother died, Evelyn worked as a domestic for the Parson at the Parsonage in Silchester Road. She went with him to continue working for him for a further year when he moved to Froxfield, Marlborough. She returned home and it was not long before she married Harry Bailey, who worked as a carrier. Evelyn had evacuees to stay in the Second World War and devoted her time to bringing up her four children - Margaret, Barbara, Alan and Valerie. Harry's business became a furniture removal business and his van was a common sight in Pamber Heath. He became known locally as 'The Midnight Carrier'. The couple spent their later years together at Shirley Cottage and after Harry died, Evelyn continued to live there alone. She loved the old cottage and treasured the memorabilia of her father's navy career. She was an independent lady and managed to stay there even after a bad fall. However, age eventually got the better of her and a year or two ago she went to live at the Bethany Residential Nursing Home in Pamber Heath Road, where she spent her last days. It was fortunate that her memories of the village were recorded and I was able to see her several times some years ago as she helped with my research into the village history. She had many friends in the village and beyond and was a much-loved character. The funeral is to be held at 11am on Tuesday the 25th of April at the United Reformed Church, Tadley. Many will long remember her friendly and kind disposition for years to come and will be greatly missed by family and friends.' See the Memories and Pictures page for a photo of Evelyn and Harry. ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, April, 2006.

2006, April - FUNERAL OF EVELYN BAILEY > 'The funeral of Evelyn Bailey was held on the 25th of April, 2006 at the United Reformed Church, Tadley, attended by about 100 mourners. The service commenced promptly at 11.00am with the arrival and procession of the coffin, which was borne by four men. The coffin, which was topped with a lovely arrangement of flowers, was then placed at the front of the church on a pair of trestles. A welcome was given to all by the officiating minister Marcus Hall of the Pamber Heath Gospel Hall. After a short prayer, the hymn What a Friend we have in Jesus was heartily sung, followed by a reading of scripture by the minister. The grandson of Evelyn (Chris) then stepped up to give a tribute in which he gave details of Evelyn's life, mentioning her good sense of humour and love of gardening. Although he found it emotionally overwhelming and had to pause from time-to-time, the tribute he gave summed up what others had found - that Evelyn had touched and enriched their lives with her kindness and friendship. An address followed by the minister, pointing out that Evelyn as a Christian believer had the promise of eternal life and exhorted others present who were not believers to consider following a Christian life. Then there was the closing hymn: How sweet the name of Jesus, which was again sung with great fervour. A closing prayer ended the service and the coffin was then taken out to the prepared grave in the churchyard for internment. Many lovely floral tributes were on display alongside. All present gathered around and the coffin was then lowered. It bore the inscription: 'Elizabeth Evelyn Bailey - Fell asleep 14th April, 2006 - Aged 98 years'

A short service followed at the graveside, committing the body to the ground, closing with a prayer. Many then took advantage of the invitation of refreshments across the road at the Methodist Church Hall. Grace was said by Alan Stroud after which all partook of the excellent buffet that had been provided. Tea was served and there was then the opportunity to renew acquaintances and meet new people.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, April, 2006.

2006, May - MP MARIA MILLER VISITS IMPSTONE PRE-SCHOOL > 'Parents and teachers quizzed Maria Miller about choice in education when the Basingstoke MP visited a Pamber Heath playgroup on Friday.' As Conservative shadow minister for education, she answered questions about affordable childcare, bullying, limited choice for non-academic training, the need for less form-filling for children with special needs and A-level exams being devalued by the media. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 25th of May, 2006.

2006, May - PENBERE CLOSE NAME SUGGESTION FOR DEVELOPMENT IN PELICAN ROAD > 'The Pamber Parish Council have been asked to consider names for the new housing development in the former rear gardens of homes in Pelican Road almost opposite the Scout den. The developers have suggested Kingfisher Close or Road  but councilor Keith Chapman has suggested the name Penbere Close - Penbere being an historical spelling for the name Pamber, one of several variations over time.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, May, 2006.

2006, June - FORMER TEACHER LAUNCHES SECOND EDITION OF BOOK ABOUT INDONESIA > Gina Graham, a 62 year-old former teacher from Pamber Heath, has published the second edition of her book called Mum's Clare: A Mother's Eye View of Indonesia following first publication in April last year. The book is based on the travel journal of the trip she made with her youngest daughter to Indonesia in late 1999 and gives a personal view of the country and its people. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 1st of June, 2006.

2006, August - THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE FUNDRAISER FOR MORLAND SURGERY > Douglas MacLean, 64, of Church Road, Pamber Heath has successfully completed the Three Peaks Challenge (climbing of three peaks in under 24 hours - Scafell Pike in the Lake District, Ben Nevis in Scotland and Snowdon in Wales), accompanied by his son and two friends. £800 was raised in sponsorship for new equipment at the Moorland GP surgery in Tadley. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 31st of August, 2006.

2006, September - WORK STARTS ON NEW DEVELOPMENT AT FORMER BAILEY'S COTTAGE > 'Work has started at last on the housing development at what used to be Evelyn Bailey's 'Shirley Cottage' in Pamber Heath Road and the end of an era. Sadly, another of the last remaining historical buildings of Pamber Heath is to go forever. It was not long ago we saw 'The Cabin' in Burney Bit disappear for good. The cottage has not been demolished yet but the old large shed that Harry Bailey used to house his furniture van was dismantled first and then building began at the rear of the plot.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, September, 2006.

2006, September - PAMBER HEATH POST OFFICE CHANGES HANDS > 'This month saw the Pamber Heath Post Office and Stores in Pamber Heath Road change hands after many years. The staff were not retained and many will miss the friendly personalities that made a visit there pleasurable. Dorothy and Angie were two such memorable members of staff that always had a friendly welcome for customers. Change is a part of life and I guess it will take a while for villagers to become accustomed to the new faces behind the counters. No particular changes have been noted at the shop but I understand the flat above is to be put on the market for sale.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, September, 2006.

2006, October - ROY STACEY DIES AT THE AGE OF 85 > Roy Stacey, formerly of Pamber Heath, passed away on the 29th of September at Wythenshawe Hospital, Cheshire at the age of 85. The funeral service is to be held at Altrincham Crematorium on Friday 6th October at 2pm. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 5th of October, 2006.

2006, October - MISSING CAT SPARKS FEAR THAT CAT SNIPER HAS RETURNED > A cat owner of Jubilee Close is fearful that the sniper of Jubilee Close is back after a brief respite in cat shootings in the area using an air weapon. Her cat went missing on September 2nd and she is worried that it will be the latest victim. Police are anxious for any information. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 12th of October, 2006.

2006, October - VANDALISM AT THE MEMORIAL HALL > The notice board outside the Pamber Heath Memorial Hall has been smashed several times in the last month, amounting to hundreds of pounds worth of damage. Pamber Parish Council have had enough and are considering how to remedy the situation. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 19th of October, 2006.

2006, October - SHIRLEY COTTAGE BEING DEMOLISHED > 'Work began this month to demolish Shirley Cottage (see above) and by the middle of the month the roof had been taken off but the electricity wires were still connected to one wall at the time and possibly the reason why demolition has halted.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, October, 2006.

2006, October - PENBERE CLOSE CHOSEN AS NAME FOR NEW DEVELOPMENT > 'Penbere Close was chosen as the name for the housing development in the former rear gardens of homes in Pelican Road, with the access being almost opposite the Scout den (see item in May above). Penbere is an ancient name for Pamber.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, October, 2006.

2007, April - LOUISA BENHAM DIES AT THE GRAND OLD AGE OF 101 > 'It is with sadness that I report the loss of another person who had historical connections with Pamber Heath. Louisa was originally married to Hector Benham, the baker and grocer who ran Benham's bakery and grocery shop in Silchester Road during the 1950s and before. In recent times she had been living near her daughter in Roman's Gate, Pamber Heath. It only seems a few years ago that I would often see her accompany 'Paddy' (Patricia) Elliott as 'Paddy' walked down with her wheelbarrow to work on her allotment just south of Burney Bit. She died peacefully at Bayford House Nursing Home, Stockcross, on April 15th. The funeral takes place at St. Peter's Church, Tadley on Tuesday April 24th at 2pm.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, April, 2007.

2007, May - EVEN IF IT'S SCREWED DOWN THEY'LL STEAL IT! > There's an old saying that a thief would steal anything if it wasn't screwed down but in this case they stole something that was screwed down. The slide at the playground near Burney Bit was thought to have been stolen during the night of May 22nd or 23rd. The slide was probably taken for its scrap metal value as it has a high aluminum content. It will cost £1500 to purchase another one and install it. A similar slide was also stolen from the playground at Giles Court, Tadley at the same time. Police are seeking information from the public. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 31st of May, 2007.

2007, September - FAREWELL TO 'BIG NANNY' > Kathleen (Kitty) Carter, affectionately known to many as 'Big Nanny', died aged 97, at the Marlfield Nursing Home, Alton on August 14th. She was formerly of Sandy Lane, Pamber Heath. Born in 1910, she attended Tadley School and in 1931 married William (Dabby) Carter. Six children followed: Brian, Mervyn, Barry, Marion, Heather and Glenn. She was a grandmother to 22, great-grandmother to 27 and great-great-grandmother to 7. She is sadly missed by all her family and friends. The funeral took place at St. Paul's Church Tadley on Thursday August 23rd at 2pm. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 23rd of August and 6th of September, 2007.

2007, September - FETE AND PRODUCE SHOW A BIG SUCCESS > The annual fete and produce show was held at the Pamber Heath Memorial Hall recently, attended by the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councilor Warwick Lovegrove. The produce show was popular with a large number of entries and the fete was enjoyed by many locals, the dog agility display in particular being most entertaining. The event raised money for the village hall. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Tadley Gazette, 13th of September, 2007.

2007, September - WATER SUPPLY CONTAMINATION CAUSES MAJOR DISRUPTION > 'Utility company Thames Water alerted 764 houses in the Pamber Heath area not to use their water for drinking or washing after customers complained of a petrol taste on Friday afternoon (September 21st). Thames Water has been supplying bottled water to residents and bowsers have been stationed at street corners.' Leaflets were put through letter-boxes but some said they did not receive them until Saturday afternoon, which was not soon enough, bearing in mind they had been using the contaminated water for some time. Thames Water will be flushing the pipes and it is expected that a normal service will be resumed by Tuesday. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: The Monday Gazette, 24th of September, 2007.

2007, September - THAMES WATER MUST PAY COMPENSATION > Thames Water, who are responsible for Pamber Heath's water supply, are liable to pay each household £40 compensation under rules laid down by their customer guarantee scheme but an extra £20 per household may be on the cards if Thames Water abide by the regulations laid down by the regulator OFWAT and payments are not made within 20 working days. Pamber Heath residents were angry at the various shortcomings by Thames Water during the event. Supplies were resumed late on Monday afternoon following the contamination on the Friday, which was caused during a water flushing operation. Thames Water faces a £12.5 million fine for its poor customer service last year, so it's no wonder such an incident took place. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 27th of September, 2007 and Basingstoke Gazette Extra, 3rd of October, 2007.

2007, October - EVEN MORE DEVELOPMENT FOR PELICAN ROAD > Planning permission has been granted to build four semi-detached homes in the rear of numbers 43 and 45 Pelican Road, despite 8 letters of objection from neighbours. The road has seen a lot of development during the last few years, with parts of the long back gardens of homes in Pelican Road being given over to new homes, much to the displeasure of neighbours. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 18th of October, 2007.

2007, November - ERIC BONE OF BURNEY BIT REMEMBERED > 'A well-known character of the Burney Bit area, Eric Bone, sadly departed this world but peacefully on the 21st of October, 2007. I have fond memories of Eric, a somewhat eccentric but friendly character, who had lived in Burney Bit with his wife Molly for decades. He seemed to like to wear his carpet slippers on trips out to the local shop or other local destinations, despite the weather at the time. He was a likeable character and was quick to offer me advice on how to keep an allotment, although some of it seemed rather strange. I once had an adjacent allotment to his in the mid 1980s and I marvelled how he managed to cope with that one as well as another on the site. He was obviously a keen gardener. In recent times age caught up with him and health problems set in which meant an end to all of that. I and others will sadly miss him and no doubt long remember the friendly and humorous chats we had with him.' ITEM 0334 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, November, 2007.

2007, November - THAMES WATER COMPENSATION PAYMENTS TOO SLOW > Residents of Pamber Heath have seen no sign of the promised compensation by Thames Water in response to the disruption caused by the recent water contamination. Thames water said that the present round of billing had already started to be processed when the event occurred and therefore too late to include the compensation payment. Don Sharples, senior press officer for Thames Water, said: "We would like to say sorry for any inconvenience and, because we did not pay quickly enough, residents will receive a total of a £60 reduction on their next bill." ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 22nd of November, 2007.

2008, January - VANDALISM AT MEMORIAL HALL > 'The memorial hall in Pamber Heath has had its emergency exit door holed, the main doors almost wrenched off their hinges and countless bonfires lit in the surrounding area.' The vandalism mostly occurs at night and has been going on for months. Rents and fundraising activities provide income for the hall but the management committee chairman Tony Middleton said: 'We would rather use the money for constructive purposes than paying for vandalism.' Police are increasing their patrols but ask for residents to watch out for suspects and note down any details that may be useful to them. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 3rd of January, 2008.

2008, January - HOT WATER TANK EXPLODES CAUSING MAJOR DAMAGE > 'Doors of the bungalow, in Silchester Road, were blown off and neighbouring houses shook when the electric hot water tank exploded at around 12.10pm on Monday.' Major damage was caused to the structure of the building affecting the walls and ceilings. More than a third of the bungalow was considered unsafe as a result. Fortunately, the owners were out at the time and nobody was hurt. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 10th of January, 2008.

2008, January - FLOODING AT THE PELICAN INN > 'Dan Saunders, who owns The Pelican Inn, in Silchester Road, said he has spent thousands of pounds dealing with the damage caused by an overflowing local drain owned by Hampshire County Council.' The pub was flooded in July last year and now again following heavy rain on Thursday January 10th. Dan was angry that the council did not offer any help after the present flooding and had known about the problem for six months but not acted. The council have now said that they will construct a pipe to take the water away to an existing highway ditch. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 24th of January, 2008.

2008, March - SOME STILL WAITING FOR COMPENSATION > Some Pamber Heath residents are still waiting to receive the promised £60 compensation payment from Thames Water following the water contamination in September. They were told it would be in the March bill but Thames Water said 25 households did not receive the payment due to discrepancies over customers' addresses and they are looking to resolve these issues as soon as possible. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 27th of March, 2008.

2008, April - FAREWELL TO EILEEN CROUCHER AT SAINSBURY'S > Eileen Croucher of Burney Bit, Pamber Heath has retired from Sainsbury's in Mulfords Hill, Tadley at the age of 65 after 21 years of service on the deli counter, 16 of those when the store was a Budgens supermarket. She was given a fond farewell by colleagues with a special buffet. "I'll catch up with all the things I haven't had time for before", said Mrs Croucher. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 24th of April, 2008.

2008, May - NAMING OF THE DEVELOPMENT ON BAILEY'S FORMER LAND > 'It was noticed recently that after completion of the first phase of the development of homes on the former site of Evelyn Bailey's cottage and garden in Pamber Heath Road, the new access road has been named as Middle Close. A final dwelling has recently been started bordering Pamber Heath Road by Meadham Builders and probably will be completed by the end of the summer.' ITEM 0362 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, May, 2008.

2008, June - PELICAN PUB FLOODED AGAIN > 'Rainwater began seeping inside The Pelican Inn in Silchester Road, Pamber Heath on Tuesday morning, following heavy overnight downpours.' The pub had flooded twice previously in the last year but the long-awaited improvements to drainage, completed by Hampshire County Council in the form of another soakaway, did not work and deemed a waste of money. Landlord Dan Saunders is distraught but in consultation with the council about further options to resolve this frustrating situation. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 5th of June, 2008.

2008, July - UNMADE PART OF PELICAN ROAD HEAVILY POT-HOLED > 'On a recent visit to the Pelican Road area, I noticed how deep and numerous the pot-holes are at present on the unmade part of the road and probably the worst state I have noticed over the years. Thanks to a housing development at what became Verica Gardens further down the road, a good portion of the road was made up by the builders to a good standard as part of the planning permission. I am not aware of any plans to have the rest of the road made up and we may have to negotiate that stretch with care when driving along, for some time to come.' ITEM 0362 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, July, 2008.

2008, September - SAD DEATH OF FORMER PAMBER HEATH MAN DAVID LONG > 'News of the death of David Long at his home in Peterborough has reached me. David had lived in Pamber Heath until a move to Peterborough some time ago, where I understand his sister Hazel had been living. David was the son of Frederick Long, who lived in the Burney Bit many years ago. He was also a descendant of the historic Long family of Pamber Heath who have been in the village for over 100 years. David had been living in a bungalow in Burney Bit until his move to Peterborough. He will sadly be missed by all his friends and family.' ITEM 0362 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, September, 2008.

2008, September - FETE AND PRODUCE SHOW INCLUDED A VISIT BY 'ELVIS' > 'Visitors to Pamber Heath Fete and Produce Show may have thought they were seeing things when faced with blue spangled Elvis impersonator Dave Hurrell, who opened the day's events at the Memorial Hall in Pamber Heath Road.' Birds of prey, a dog display and Tadley Concert Brass were amongst the attractions. Proceeds were towards hall running costs. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 11th of September, 2008.

2008, October - ARMED ROBBERS BEAT UP DES HELYAR AND SON > 'Six men in hooded tops, their faces covered by scarves, entered Des Helyar Motorcycles, in Pamber Heath Road, Tadley, on Tuesday (October 7th), between 11.55am and 12.20pm. Proprietor Des Helyar and his 42 year-old son were attacked by the thugs, who were carrying guns and knives. The robbers stole three motorcycles, a number of motorcycle helmets and the cash register before making off.' Des and his son were treated at Basingstoke Hospital. Police are seeking information. ITEM 0333 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 9th of October, 2008.

2008, November - DOUBLE FAMILY LOSS FOR MAURICE RAWLINGS > 'I report sad news concerning long-time Pamber Heath resident Maurice Rawlings. His wife, Doris, sadly passed away on 11th of November, but peacefully, only to be followed on the 18th of November by his daughter Janet (Castle). Both funeral services were conducted at St. Peter's Church, Tadley. They will be sadly missed by family and friends.' ITEM 0362 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, November, 2008.

2009, January - GENERAL NEWS ROUND-UP > 'I noticed that work is still underway to complete the housing development known as Middle Close in Pamber Heath Road. The Pamber Heath History book is nearly sold out again after the last reprint and a further reprint is being considered. Less Christmas lights were noticed adorning homes in Pamber Heath during the festive season and some people were not having their lights switched on for so long each day this year, no doubt due to the high cost of fuel  bills at present. Security gates were installed recently at Pamber Heath Memorial Hall in a bid to prevent the constant vandalism there.' ITEM 0362 SOURCE: Pamber Heath Village News, January, 2009.

2009, July - DEATH OF MAISIE JOY SAUNDERS > 'Another long-time resident of Pamber Heath, widow Maisie Joy Saunders, passed away peacefully on the 19th of July, 2009. Her husband Les had passed away some years ago. They were both well-known to the older villagers and had been living in Burney Bit, Pamber Heath for decades. The funeral of Maise took place at the Tadley United Reformed Church on Friday 31st of July at 11.00am, attended by family and friends, who are left to mourn the loss of their loved one.' Pamber Heath Village News, July, 2009.

2009, August - LAST HOME IN MIDDLE CLOSE DEVELOPMENT FINISHED > 'The last home of the Middle Close housing development has been finished and is up for sale. The development is on land previously occupied by Evelyn Bailey, who died some time ago. Evelyn had been living in the village for decades. Her cottage and a large shed, which at one time housed her husband's removal van, were demolished to make way for this development.' Pamber Heath Village News, August, 2009.

2009, September - PAMBER HEATH MAN CELEBRATES HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY > 'Three parties in the space of a week marked a north Hampshire man's 100th birthday.' Alan Partridge of Wakeford Court, Pamber Heath said: " I've been very lucky with three parties. I'm absolutely worn out!" His daughter threw him a big family party in Bramley, the PROBUS  club of Basingstoke - for retired professional and business men - surprised him with a birthday cake at their lunch meeting during his birthday week and he took about 20 fellow Wakeford Court residents out to the Pelican pub in Pamber Heath for lunch. ITEM 0372 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 23rd of September, 2009.

2009, October - TRAVELLERS' SITE IN SANDY LANE IN PLANNING COMPROMISE > 'Basingstoke & Deane Borough Councilors considered a retrospective application to change a condition at a traveller site at Stable View, Sandy Lane, Pamber Heath, so that anyone could live on the site provided they could prove they are a genuine gypsy or traveller...councilors decided to simply change the named occupant from Mr. Hughes to Mr. Nolan (who had purchased the land from Mr. Hughes) rather than follow planning officers' recommendations to remove the personal occupancy condition. The application drew 65 letters of objection and a petition against travellers living on the site.' ITEM 0372 SOURCE: Basingstoke Gazette, 29th of October, 2009.

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