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2005

Dec 30
Film Award: Fleet actress Raquel Cassidy's latest film, Festival, has won the award for Best Comedy film of the year at the British Comedy Awards. The award was presented by Jack Dee. 
Christmas Baby: Lisa Wigmore and mark Medler from Elvetham Heath estate were the proud parents of a baby boy at 3.17 on Christmas day. Lisa decided to go into Frimley Park hospital for a check up at about 10am. The couple became engaged on Christmas Eve. They have named the boy Jack.
Competition Winner: Six year old Stan Hearn and Hannah Lineker, 10, have both won family tickets to the Starburst production of Cinderella At the Harlington Centre after winning a programme cover design competition. 7 year old Miles Wheway was runner up. Hart District cabinet member Sharyn Wheale presented the prizes.
Fleet v Aldershot: The rearranged Hampshire cup game will be played on Tuesday Jan 10th at Aldershot's Recreation Ground. 

Dec 23
Fund Raisers: Fleet Lions Club and staff at the new Sunrise Senior Living development in Church Rd have joined forces to collect toys and gifts for local children during a local Carole concert. The presents will be handed out to deprived families and individuals.

Dec 8
School On Fire: Children at Church Crookham Infants school were preparing for there annual nativity play when a lighting control switch caught fire and the children had to be evacuated. 12 firefighters from Rushmoor and Fleet carried the control unit outside and then ventilated the school. The play was staged on the following Wednesday.

Dec 2
Mast Fears: Residents in the area of Chesilton Crescent, Portland Drive and Conifer Close in Church Crookham have started a petition to object to Hutchinson 3G putting up a 12 metre mobile phone mast on the pavement near their homes.
Fleet's Best Yet: Sue Collen, Fleet's Town Centre Manager and organiser of the annual Fleet Christmas Festivities said that this years was the best yet. Over £2,500 was raised towards local charities. Held last Wednesday the whole of Fleet Rd was turned into a night of fun with all sorts of entertainments to enjoy for people of all ages. More
Smokeless: Cafe Giardino in Fleet has become the 20th business to join Hart District Council's smoke free zone. 

Nov 30
Sorry, The Libraries Full: Extract from the latest Fleet and District Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter; "The Editor reported that currently 600065000 copies of the newsletter were delivered. The next run would be 6,200 copies. Any surplus were normally left in Fleet library."
Hair Cut Takeover: Brenda Smith, daughter-in-law of Brian Surtees is taking over the long established hairdressers, Hair Cut Sir in Reading Road South. Brian, who had owned the business for the last 35 years, died earlier this year.
Times Are A-Changing: Pubs in the Fleet area started to operate under new licensing laws this week. As far as fleethants.com can find out there are no pubs in the Fleet and Crookham area that have applied for round-the-clock licenses. Click here for a list of new pub closing times.

Nov 23
Rovers Sponsored: Crookham Rovers FC's under 12 team are being sponsored by Urban Rebounding fitness equipment who have provided the squad with new rainproof tops.
Fleet Man Would Have Been Charged: Surrey police have closed their inquiry into the stabbing of Abigail Witchall naming former Salesian College pupil Richard Cazaly as the man they believed carried out the attack. Cazely has since been found dead in Scotland and appeared to have taken his own life.
Police Raid Store: Fleet police have seized hundreds of bottles and cans of alcohol from the Heatherside Stores in Reading Rd South. The police claim that the shop does not have a licence to sell alcohol.
18 Hours Selling Alcohol: Esso Glenlands Service Station in Reading Rd South have applied for a licence to sell alcohol for 18 hours a day. A hearing at Hart Council will decide after complaints from residents in Glen Rd, Clarence Rd and Albert Street.
Do You Want An Allotment?: Green campaigner Maria Keith, Fleet rep of north and east Hampshire Green Party has called upon residents to lobby the Hart District Council to provide adequate allocation of allotments for Fleet and Church Crookham. Anyone interested can contact Ms Keith at maria@nehantsgreenparty.org.uk or call 07967 276052.

Nov 10
Swimming Record: Fleet swimmer Tom Greenwood set a new British record of 25.75 secs competing in the 50m freestyle in the 45-49 age group.

Nov 4

Fleet Pond Safe: Goverment advice has stated that there is no  danger to the public of avian bird flu in the birds continuing use of Fleet Pond.
Phone Robbery: A delivery driver was abducted by robbers who stole thousands of pounds worth of mobile phones from his van in Cove Rd, Fleet.
Boot Fairs: Boot Fairs could be introduced in the Victoria Rd car park next summer. A request for a licence from April is being made to the Hart Council.

Oct 28
100ft Mobile Mast: Mobile phone company Orange have plans to build a 30metre mast in woodland at the former sewage works off Aldershot Rd, Church Crookham. Residents are fighting to stop the mast which will overshadow their homes.
Road Closed: Fleet Rd will be closed from the Oatsheaf junction to Upper Street from 31 Oct to 12 November. Drivers can expect delays.
Boy Found: Brendon Airs who was last seen in Tavistock Rd on Oct 12 has been found on Monday 24 Oct in Aldershot by police officers conducting house to house inquiries.
Development Story: Elvetham Heath developers have produced  a brochure called "The Elvetham Heath Story" to celebrate the anniversary of the development which has more than 1,450 homes occupied since the year 2000.

Oct 21
Pensioners Move Fear: Sentinel Housing association has outlined plans to knock down homes in Campbell Close, Fleet and replace them with 60 flats. Residents do not want to move while the work takes place stating that they are happy were they are and were also confused about the move saying they were used to living in there little bungalows, not a block of flats.

Oct 14
Tsunami Trail: Fleet's James Holt and friend Andy Sheppard from Ash Vale have left for Sri Lanka to help raise £5,000 for the tsunami disaster. Sponsored by The International Childcare Trust they will make a 400km trip which should take about 5 days.

Oct 6
Football Sponsors: Crookham Rovers FC have landed a 33 year old club record sponsorship deal with Amazon Windows and Doors. The club provides football for more than 180 boys aged between 7 and 17. If you are interested phone Nigel Lennard on 01252 624237.
Wine Bar Death: Manuel Mendez boss of the former Manuel's Wine Bar in Fleet has died in his native Spain. He ran the bar for 18 years before retiring in 2000. He was 62.
More Flights: Campaigners from Church Crookham living under the Farnborough Airport flight path are angry that they were not consulted about a proposed plan to increase annual movements from 2,500 to 5,000 at weekends.
Bin Probe: There is to be an all-party probe into Harts plans to introduce an alternate week waste collection system where recyclable waste is collected one week and black bin waste the next.
Butterfly Effect: 9 year old Anastasia Watson has won a contest organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership and Fleet Tourist Office to design a butterfly. The contest was organised to help promote a new book  called Blackwater Valley Butterflies by Fleet resident Peter Martin. The book costs £2.50 and is available in tourist information centres.
Milly's Fund Closes: The charity fund set up by the family of Milly Dowler to help promote teenagers' personal safety is closing three and a half years after she disappeared. It raised more than £800,000.
Vicki's Victory: Fleet athlete Vicki Hansfors has won the 100m gold medal in the recent Wheelchair and Amputee World Games at Rio de Janeiro.

28 Sep
Cheers: The Prince Arthur pub in Fleet Rd is the only pub in Fleet to be mentioned in "The Good Beer Guide 2006" compiled by the Campaign for Real Ale.
Drinking Bans: From Saturday 1 Oct police will have the power to control drinking by confiscating alcohol if people refuse their requests to stop drinking. Fines of up to £500 can result from refusal to cooperate. (Click here for a list of public places were the ban will take place)
Its Your Birthday: Matthew Webster manager of the Propaganda  Music Canteen in Fleet Rd is offering a free meal to anyone who can prove its their birthday. The offer is only available on their birthday. For more details call 620198 or visit www.musiccanteen.co.uk  

16 Sep
New Home: Fleet Hockey Club are moving to a new pavilion in Aldershot which they will share with Army hockey teams. Rob Scott of Fleet Hockey Club said "The Army hockey Club is very keen to have a relationship with the civilian clubs and we think this will be a great community facility. The development cost £850,000.

9 Sep
United Fight: Three groups of residents have joined forces and called on local MP James Arbuthnot for support in their fight to stop new developments in Kings Rd, Clarence Rd and Wood Lane.
Stylish Nomination: Heidi Davison from Wella salon Marc Antoni has been nominated for the British Hairdressing Awards Newcomer of the Year title.
Too Noisy: There have been complaints by local residents that noise from the new skateboard park in the views is oppressive. They state that readings taken at the park were during the lunch hour when levels would have been quieter. 
Set Aside: Donna Lambert fell asleep on a train going to Fleet and woke up on a locked train in sidings 40 miles from her home in Crondal. Donna used her mobile phone to get help and police eventually found her at 2am. South West trains have apologised and paid her £75 taxi fare home.
Outside Toilets: Hart Council is proposing to build flats for homeless people above the public toilets in Victoria Rd. The loos are in need of refurbishment at a cost of £158,000.

1 Sep
Local School Results:

26 Aug
Traders Celebrate: Fleet traders have held a party at El Castello restaurant in Fleet Rd to celebrate the start of the Fleet Town Centre improvement works. 20,000 leaflets have been sent out explaining the works and have been well received. Traders are sending out the message that despite the works all shops are still very much open for business.
Harts Public Health: A Public Health Annual Report has placed Hart District top of the list as the least deprived in England.
Fire Risk: Firefighters were called to a flat in Turgis Rd at Elvetham Heath after it had been sprayed with a flammable liquid and set alight. Fortunately the fire had burned out by the time they arrived. The police want to hear from anybody who saw anything suspicious on Aug 15 at about 10pm.
Race Called Off: This years popular Fleet 10Km road race has had to be called off due to the extensive roadwork's taking place in the town centre. It was due to take place on Oct 23.
Open All Hours: Jaxx night club has applied to stay open until 3.30am on Fridays and Saturdays and until 2.30am on Thursday nights. Fleet police are objecting on grounds of public nuisance.
Swimming For Charity: Stephanie McAllister of Pear Tree Ave who suffers from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and spondylosis of the thoracic and cervical spine has completed a 7,000 metre sponsored swim at Farnborogh Recreational Centre. She is trying to raise money for a sports wheelchair and an everyday chair. To make a donation call Stephanie on 01252 810570 or email stephmcallister@gmail.com 
Spraying Yobs: Yobs have sprayed tough cavity wall sealant on several parked cars along Clarence Rd, Church Rd and Connaught Rd 

19 Aug
MP's Appeal: Local Tory MP James Arbuthnot has appealed for people living in the Hart District with various skills and expertise in planning matters to help with appeals to government with regard to the stopping of further developments such as that at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks. If you can help write to Mr. Arbuthnot at 14a Butts Rd, Alton, Hants. GU34 1ND or email james@nehants-conservative.org.uk with the heading QE Barracks.
Married 60 Years: Fleet couple Jim and Dorothy Dawson have received a message from the Queen congratulating them on their diamond wedding anniversary. Jim and Dorothy met in Oxford in 1941.

12 Aug: 
New President: Former Clarke's butcher Mr. Paton has become the new president of Fleet Rotary Club.
Top Shot: Fleet teenager Private Mark Wylie has become the youngest person to become a member of the elite TA50 club the top 50 shots in the TA.

5 Aug
At Last: Work starts on the transformation of Fleet town centre on 8th Aug. It is expected to take 8 months to complete with a break at Christmas to ensure retail shops do not lose out on this vital shopping time.
Last Orders Please: Brian and Val Fulker have left Delia Fruiterers in Linkway Parade after 30 years. Brian said he thinks he deserves a rest after getting up at three in the morning and working until 6 at night for the last 30 years.

29 July
End To Silt Problem?: For 30 years silt has washed down from the Army land around Long Valley and entered Fleet Pond. Fleet Pond Society have called for help to solve the growing problem and the MOD have given assurances that solutions will be found. Gelvert Stream which flows into the pond will be monitored and the ponds silt will be analyzed. Pond Society chairman Colin Gray thanked MP James Arbuthnot for taking the matter to the minister concerned.
No Blue Triangle Care Home: Hart Council have thrown out an application  to build a 64 bedroomed care home  in place of two large detached houses in Victoria Hill Rd.
Raquel's Success: Fleet actress Raquel Cassidy stars in her first major film "Festival" which has just gone on general release. It has been described as "one of the best ensemble tragi-comedies since Robert Altman's heyday". 
Bus To Go: Stagecoach bus route 75 which serves Fleet Station to The Verne is to be axed in a number of cuts to save Hampshire County Council £187,000 a year.
New Church: Work on the £2 million "Church on the Heath" will soon start at the new Elvetham Heath Estate. Supporters can buy bricks at £5 each by calling Mr. Price on 01252 695067.

22 July
Great Skating: Cllr Sharyn Wheale has opened Fleet's new skateboard park near the views. Built as part of the New Fleet Plan the park is one of the best in the area and much larger than the previous park which it has replaced.
Plans Thrown Out: Hart District Council's planning committee have thrown out plans to build 1,132 new homes on the former QEB site in Church Crookham. Developer Tayler Woodrow is considering an appeal.
Allotments: Green Party member Maria Keith has started a campaign to provide an adequate allocation of allotments for Fleet. Over the past years Fleet has seen three allotments make way for building development.
Car Success: About 3,000 people attended a motoring extravaganza at Elvetham Heath. All proceeds go to the estates school and church.

15 July
Andy Opens Shop: TV presenter Andy Collins has opened a new kitchen studio, Daden Interiors, at 347 Fleet Rd. 
No New Pub: Plans to turn the Help the Aged shop in Fleet Rd into another pub have been turned down by Hart Councils Planning Committee.
Gurkha Walk: Caroline Malone and her son Dan from Church Crookham will be taking part in a 62 mile walk to raise £1,500 for Oxfam and the Gurkha Welfare Trust in Nepal. To support them visit www.bmycharity.com/v2/carolinemalone 

8 July
Meeting Chaos: A debate on the new mini town at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks has been deferred due to the hundreds of people trying to attend the meeting at the Harlington Centre. The meeting is to be rearranged at the Princes Hall in Aldershot.
Needle Shock: A five year old boy was cut by a hypodermic needle whilst playing in Oakley Park. The boy will have to undergo blood tests for the next 6 months to see if anything develops.
Old Mobile Phones: Morrisons supermarket staff are raising money for a Breast Cancer Campaign by handing out freepost envelopes so that customers can send their old mobile phones away to be recycled.

New Look Pub: The Hogshead pub in Fleet Rd has been transformed into a Propaganda Music Canteen with an electric mix of eating, drinking and entertainment. Only over 20's allowed.
Retailers Angry: Retailers attending a Fleet New  Plan meeting at the Harlington Centre were angry at the delays in finishing the Victoria Rd car park. One claimed that she had lost thousands of pounds due to reduced footfall. They urged the council to consider free parking during the months ahead when the Fleet Rd improvements are taking place.

24 June
Accidents: A 34 year old motorcyclist was thrown of his bike when he collided with a Honda Civic turning into Knoll Rd. Nether rider was injured but witnesses should call 0845 0454545 and ask for PC Dobson. Police are also appealing for witnesses after a motorcyclist died on the B3013 Minley Rd when he collided with a blue Laguna. Again witnesses should ring 0845 0454545.
Playground Revamped: Oakley Park playground has been resurfaced and all the old equipment replaced after pressure from a local group of parents who complained at the state of the old playground which had very little equipment and was covered with broken glass.

17 June
A Mothers Thank You: Angie Lalanne and three other mothers who are grateful to Frimley Park Hospital for help they received after the premature birth of their children have set up a fund to raise money towards a new incubator. So far they have raised £1,140 by holding a baby and toddlers fair at Velmead Community Centre.
First Class Petunia: Eight year old Church Crookham Junior School pupil Zoe Westwood has won the regional champion title in the baby Bio National Schools Growing competition which was judged at Redfields Garden Centre. She grew her winning potted petunia on the dining room window sill.
Ticket Mania: A Fleet traffic warden issued a ticket to a Chevrolet which was parked on private land outside North Hants Tyres. One of the managers tried to explain to the warden that it was private land but was not believed. Later the council admitted its error

10 June
Parking Charges Increase: Hart District Council have increased parking charges by a massive 122% from 1997-98 to 2003-04. 
Open Longer: The Wyvern pub in Aldershot Rd, Church Crookham is the first in Hart to apply for a 24 hour drinking licence.
Probus Club: A new Probus Club has been formed by a group of woman in Fleet. It is known as the Fugelmere Ladies Probus Club. The club places emphasis on friendship, care and enjoyment. Contact Pat Grist on 01252 684584.

3 June
Welcome Community Support Officer: Welcome Break at Fleet Services have hired PCSO Karen East to prevent car break-ins. A spokesman said "We strive to work closely with police authorities on efforts to crack down on any matters of security or personal safety.

New Football Manager: Former England, Tottenham and QPR player Andy Sinton has become the new manager for Fleet Town FC. 

25 May

Carnival Programme Winner: Millie Hagart from Church Crookham Junior School has won this years competition to design the front cover of the 50th Jubilee carnival  programme. More     Photo courtesy of WhataPhoto

Millie

Benches Set On Fire: Six new benches which had been installed by volunteers from RAF Odiham Fire Station at Fleet Pond's Sandy Bay have been destroyed by fire the very following day. Fleet Ponds Chairman Colin Gray can be contacted on 01252 616183 if anyone has information that could lead to the arrest of the vandals who committed this crime.

New Paper: Alan Franklin has launched a new free newspaper "The Free Press" which will cover the Fleet area, the  Blackwater Valley and A30 corridor. Alan recently retired from editing The Star newspaper. 

19 May
Costly Accommodation: The flats at the new development on the old Rose Farm Diary site in Fleet Rd are being offered at about £180,000. The retail shops are going for £350,000.

Bikers Farewell: More than 50 bikers followed the funeral of John Martin aged 53 of Church Crookham who died of a heart attack during a family barbecue on Sun May 1st. John was a respected motorcycle trader.

14 May
New Headteacher For Calthorpe Park School: Catherine Anwar has been selected as the new headteacher to take over from Kit Heason who is to be replaced in September and is moving on to new challenges after 17 years at the school. Mrs. Anwar is currently deputy headteacher at Weydon School in Farnham. Calthorpe Park School also becomes a specialist mathematics and computing school in September.
Withdrawn Pub Application Resubmitted: An application to turn the Help the Aged shop in Fleet Rd into a pub has been resubmitted. It was withdrawn two weeks ago. Protests have now to be resubmitted. The application is similar to the previous one apart from a technicality.
Pictures Of New Bridge: 

9 May
Local Drug Taking: Evidence of drug taking has been found at the Basingbourne Rd area near a park popular with local youngsters. A resident found a number of needles used for heroin in the back garden.
Bikes Charity: Fleet Lions have raised an estimated £2,000 for charity as about 400 classic motorcycles packed Victoria Rd car park. Although the current building works produced a reduced area that was not expected it was still a success.
Election Results: Mr. James Arbuthnot was returned as Conservative MP for NE Hants with a massive majority. Click here for all the local election results.
Close call: Needing a draw to be sure of avoiding relegation Fleet Town FC lost 4 - 1 to Met Police but fortunately both relegation rivals Ashford Town and Dorking lost thus Fleet avoided the drop.

4 May
Carnival Princess Crowned: This year’s Princess is Rebecca Eales age 11 who attends Church Crookham Junior School, she loves swimming and athletics. Her attendants are Ella Jennings age 11 who goes to Calthorpe secondary school and Olivia Cure age 8 from Velmead Junior school. Full Story and Pictures

28 April
Logical Success: Local company, Fleet Logic has won a 2005 Queen's award for innovation for playing a leading role in the development of chip and pin technology.
No Pub: A developer has withdrawn his application to open a pub on the Help the Aged site in Fleet Rd.
Rape Appearance: Fleet teenager David Sutherland has been charged with two offences of rape and one of attempted rape.
New Headteacher: Current Deputy head of Court Moor School Beverly Stevens will take over as headteacher from Ken Storey on Sep 1st. She said she was completely overwhelmed with getting her dream job in her dream school.
Bin Speeds: Councillor Peter Hutcheson is asking residents to display warning signs on their wheelie bins in an attempt to alert motorists of speed restrictions.

15 April
Last Bus: Bill Smith who lived in Fleet most of his life and spent 50 years of his life driving buses and coaches died last week. He was carried to his final resting place in a vintage Aldershot & District Traction Company bus.
Fleet Rower: Malcolm Knight from Pondtail Close rowed down the Thames from Lechdale in Gloucestershire to Gravesend in Kent in 43 hours and 40 mins beating the old record of 60 hours for the 165 mile trip. His journey was in aid of the Rowing Foundation and the MacMillan Cancer Relief. 
Silver Jubilee Celebration: Wood Lane Playschool is having a family day on Fri May 20th at Wellington Country Park to celebrate 25 years. The school was established by Liz Hume-Write in 1980. Former pupils and staff wanting to attend should contact 01252 616950.
Signs of the Times: Hart Council has turned down two additional signs put up by a Fleet hairdressing salon and beauty parlour located at 2 Aldershot Rd adjacent to the Basingstoke canal as an "excessive" display that harmed the street scene and the character of the canal. There are already two sign there.

12 April: 
Out With The Old: 

8 April
CD Tribute: Fleet Guitarist Dean Hughes has recorded a CD tribute to his son Daniel who died from B Strep last year. Dean and his wife Sarah hope that the CD will raise awareness of the devastating infection which most expectant families have never heard of. Proceeds will go to Group B Strep Support charity. The CD called Wildflowers, which  contains songs that he would have wished Daniel could have heard, can be purchased from the charity by calling 01444 416176 or by visiting www.gbss.org.uk 
Police Station Improvements: At a cost of £52,000 Fleet police station has had a number of facilities improved to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act. 
Jaxx Assault: Police are looking for witnesses to an assault on a 24 year old man at the Jaxx night club at 12.30am on April 3rd. Call Det Con Ian Cullen on 0845 0454545 with any information.
Rugby Champions: Aldershot & Fleet Rugby team have been crowned champions of Hampshire 2nd division.

6 April
Polling Station Move: Fleet Courtmoor Ward polling station is moving to Church Crookham Baptist Church on Basingbourne Rd.
Can You Afford It: Hart Council have decreed that 20% of the 1,868 homes to be built at Elvetham Heath must be affordable homes either for rent or under shared ownership schemes. People wanting to know more about shared ownership should contact Kelly Gill on 01252 788723 or email Kelly. gill@hart.gov.uk .
New Political Force: The Community Campaign Hart (CCH) group has picked Simon Ambler as its candidate for Church Crookham West's by-election on May 5th. The seat has been vacated by Tory Michael Poulton's resignation.
Fire Sweeps Reserve: Young arsonists are thought to have set fire to two acres of heathland within the estate's nature reserve. Considerable damage has been done to the environment which had been cultivated to attract wildlife.
Hair Finalist: Carly Roberts, who works at Marc Antoni hairdressers in Fleet Rd, has reached the finals of the 50th Anniversary L'Oreal Colour Trophy at the Novatel in Hammersmith.

30 Mar
100 Not Out: Kitty Gent who lives in Pinewood Hill, Fleet has celebrated her 100th birthday. Her secret, she says, is hard work. Kitty also enjoys a glass of sherry.
Tories Resign: No less than three Tory councillors have resigned. Mark Fullbrook, Roger Jones and Michael Poulton all resigned now to save council tax payers money in election costs. 
Marathon Winner: The winner of this years Fleet Half Marathon was Haggi Chepkwony. His time of one hour, six minutes and eighteen seconds was a course record. knocking almost 2 minutes of the course record set last year.
Yes and No: Numbers 30 and 32 Fleet Rd are to be knocked down to be replaced by a three storey development. However numbers 335-337 Fleet Rd have been refused permission for three new flats.

25 Mar
Flute Award: Ten year old Victoria Wilson from Fleet has won the junior flute section in the Hart Young Musician of the Year awards.
Park Plans Slammed: Plans to build a large warehouse and distribution park between Fleet and Farnborough will bring the area to its knees according to the Fleet and Crookham Civic Society. It believes that the infrastructure of Fleet, already under considerable strain, would  be exacerbated.
Milly Link: A red Daewoo Nexia  with a possible registration in 1996 has been found on CCTV footage which showed the car in Copenhagen Way, which is very near to the Walton-on Thames train station, at about the time Milly disappeared. The police are appealing for anyone who may have information about this car to call Surrey Police on 0845 1252222 or call Crimestopers anonymously on 0800 555111.

17 Mar
Heartening Success: Jean Burgess, Sue Pointon, Brian Poulter, Jamie Madden, Claire Murphy, Lisa Reid and Ada Pawson from the British Heart Foundation shop in Fleet collected more than £340 for British Heart Nurses when they dressed up and collected from outside their shop in Fleet.
For Sale: The removal of the old Skateboard Park in the views will be started after Easter. A new improved park is to be built further into the Views to allow for a new link road between Victoria Rd car park and Harlington Way. The old park is up for sale. Contact Sharyn Wheale by email on    sharynw@ntlworld.com    if you are interested.
Works Along Fleet Rd: Fleet Rd will be closed in sections to allow for SE Water to carry out major works. The work is being completed ahead of further disruption due to take place after Easter for the Fleet Centre Improvements.

4 March: 
Walking Rights: Police have advised walkers to stay away from Tweseldown Racecourse as the battle for roaming rights heightens Holes have been cut into new fencing placed around the course.
Sewage Action: MP James Arbuthnot has called for action to put a stop to the continued failure of the sewage system in Fleet which causes flooding. He says that the larger than inflation rises in water charges leave no excuse for the water companies not to take action now.

25 Feb
650,000 More Houses: The Regional Assembly for the South East has recently published, for consultation, a draft Plan for the South East. This proposes as many as 640,000 new houses in the South East by 2026. To find out more come to a public meeting at 7.00 pm on Wednesday 2 March 2005,  Civic Offices, Harlington Way, Fleet
Stephen Gorys, Hart District Councillor and Jonathan Glen, Hart District and Hampshire County Councillor will expand on the plans and answer questions
Snow Finally Arrives:
After anticipation on Thursday when the forecast was for lots of snow, which ended up to be a sprinkling of snow and sleet, snow finally fell in Fleet on Fri morning although by the afternoon most of it had melted.
Sad Loss: Brian Surtees, for 40 years the owner of Hair Cuts Sir salon in Fleet, has died suddenly aged 61. Staff and customers paid their last respects as the horse drawn coffin, he always expressed a wish for, passed by his Fleet Shop.

20 Feb
Fifth Best in World: Fleet indoor rower Carol Dunbar came fifth in the world whilst competing in the 30-39 lightweight category at the World Championships in Boston, USA.
Tyred of Thieves: Derek Bell, boss of Lynchford Tyres in Kings Rd has put up a £2000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the thieves who have raided his premises three times in four days.

12 Feb
Fleet Rd Water Works: Starting in Early March, Pipeway Ltd., Contractors for South East Water will undertake mains rehabilitation work in advance of the highway works along Fleet Road. (click here for more information)

4 Feb: 
At Last: On Monday 7th Feb work will start on the removal of the Elvetham Heath Rd chicanes. The road will be closed for 4 weeks.
Tsunami Pennies: Fleet Infant School pupils are collecting 150,000 pennies towards victims of the tsunami. The school cleaner, Colin Phillips is doing a sponsored run which includes running up Beacon Hill twice.
Minitown Snag: A draft planning brief for the Queen Elizabeth Barracks development has been rejected by the Conservatives on Hart District Council amid fears of severe congestion which could result from the existing plans.
Duel Exit: Both Kit Heasman, who has completed 17 years as headteacher at Calthorpe Park School and Ken Shorley 18 years headteacher at  Courtmoor School have announced their retirement from Fleet's two secondary schools.
Ebay Challenge: Colin Humphries, Rob Lloyd, Ros King and Analisa Cotton, all from Fleet, have set up a website which enables people to swap goods. The site is www.theswapstore.net 

28 Jan:
Library Success: Fleet Library visitor numbers have increased by 43% since its summer refurbishment and ten hours extra opening time.
Inactive: Church Crookham West councillor Michael Poultin is under pressure to resign after coming under fire for from opposition parties who claim that he is not actively representing his electorate.
Cheaper Homes: INplace has built 75 new homes on Britain's richest estate Elvetham Heath. The timber frame houses and flats are available for rent and shared ownership to  anyone from young first time buyers to pensioners.

20 Jan:
Blueprint Criticized: Fleet Hospital blueprint for treating the elderly has been criticized for not addressing the problem of providing enough beds to cope with the areas fast growing population. Demands for six beds to be put into existing offices have been turned down due to the cost.

14 Jan
Smarties Guild: Fleet Morning Townswoman's Guild member have found a novel way of raising money for Naomi House. They raised more than £1,000 of a total of £2,210 by filling empty Smartie Tubes with money.
School Accreditation: Tavistock Infant School in Fleet has won a prestigious accreditation by Ofsted.
Talented Violinist: Local violinist Eloisa-Fleur Thom, aged 16, will play Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto with the Farnborough Symphony Orchestra on Sat Jan 22nd. Eloisa studies with Maurice Hasson.
PO To Go: The sub-post office in Reading Rd South is to go. Postmistress Mrs. N. Patel will be closing the PO on Feb 2. The nearest PO for local residents will be in Fleet Rd.
Record Football Crowd: Fleet Town's Calthorpe Park ground had a record crowd of 1,336 when the reformed Wimbledon visited on Sat. Wimbledon won 3-1.

7 Jan
Raquel's Part: Fleet actress Raquel Cassidy has landed a part in a new BBC1 sitcom. She plays Chris in "According to Bex". Raquel previously played Susan in the channel Four hit "Teachers"
Advent Winner: Helen Priston has won the Fleet Town Centre Managers Advent Calendar competition. She won a luxury weekend for two at the Lismoyne Hotel in Fleet.


1 Jan
Rotary Collections Record: The Rotary Club of Fleet collected an astonishing £9957.32p in two days, 30th and 31st Dec 04,  in Fleet Rd and the vicinity of Hart Shopping Centre for the Tsunami Disaster Fund. Also a new record of £10,022 was collected in the local area during the Rotarians annual Christmas collections.

2004    TOP

31 Dec
Taxi Treat: A team of six taxis,  organised by Hart Operators Drivers and Proprietors, took 32 special needs people with their carers to a pantomime in Fleet. Afterwards they were treated to a meal by McDonalds.
Homes Refused: Application for four homes to be built behind two existing homes in Grenville Drive has been refused. The Council said the homes would be cramped and spoil the character of the area.
Fleet Pond Health Concern: Colin Gray, chairman of Fleet Pond Society, has expressed concern at the increase risk of dangerous toxocara worm due to dog excrement around Fleet Pond. He stated that responsible dog owners should either collect and take the waste home or place it in one of the dog bins provided.

24 Dec
Overdose Verdict: A coroner has recorded a verdict of misadventure on the death of Darren Barnes from Church Crookham. Mr. Barnes was found dead on his bed on October 11 after a call from a neighbour alerted the police.
Lots of Turkeys: Fleet Butchers Clarke's have sold about 550 turkeys in the run up to Christmas. 

17 Dec
Fundraising Trek: Val Pryor, whose son Iain suffered massive head injuries after he was involved in a car accident as he crossed the road in Fleet, is organising an epic seven day fundraising trip up Mount Kilimanjaro. Money raised will go to Headway, the brain injury association which has helped Iain. Val is looking for 20 people to take part. More info on 01252 819805
Another Application: Berkley Community Villages has put in another application to build a 300-home development in Hitches Lane. John Prescott has already turned down a similar application. This is the third application to build on land adjacent to Hitches Lane.
PO To Close: Reading Rd Post Office is to close. The closure date will be announced soon.
Mast Permission Withdrawn: Roadwheel has withdrawn permission to build a mobile phone mast on its chimney in Kings Rd after discussions with local residents.
New Cat Book: Fleet resident Jenny Rayner's book called Theo's Great Adventure is now available in Mahler The Bookseller in the Hart Shopping Centre. Jenny says she always wanted to write a book and decided to write about her cat Theo and the adventures of his colourful life.
Girl Assaulted: An 18 year old woman was sexually assaulted as she was walking home from Jaxx Nightclub. She was dragged into the driveway of a house in Keats Gds. The attacker was described as white, aged 16-18. He fled towards Kings Rd with most of her clothes and her handbag which were later recovered. Witnesses should call DC Ian Turner on 0845 045 45 45 or anonymously on 0800 555 111.

9 Dec
Party Brawl: Police were called to Fleet Town FC after a brawl at an 18th birthday party at the clubhouse. Following refurbishment this will be the last 18th birthday party to be held. There are now no venues in Fleet that will cater for 18th birthday parties.
Official Chicanery: It is now official, the dreaded Elvetham Heath Rd chicanes are to be demolished early in Spring at a cost of £30,000. There will then be a review following the completion of the Fleet Town Centre plan improvements.
School Award: Church Crookham Junior School has gained the Investors in People Award as well as an impressive Ofsted report.
Parking Confusion: A long term problem about understanding parking charges for all night parking at the Gurka Sq Car park outside the Harlington Centre hit people attending a concert. Up to £3 was inserted into the machines to try to ensure that a correct ticket was purchased. Hart Council continue to state that the instructions are plain for all to see. (Fleethants.com  comment; If they were plain to see why are people confused? Why don't Hart Council understand?)

2 Dec:
Successful Festivities: Over 10,000 people attended this years Fleet Christmas Festivities organised by FTCG manager Sue Collen  who said "I have never seen so many people in Fleet which was buzzing". The lights were switched on by the lights raffle draw winner Lesley Leather and Mark Chivers from 96.4 Eagle Radio.
Ten-Metre Mast: A mobile phone mast application for Elvetham Heath Rd is being fought by local residents who claim the companies seeking permission to put up the masts are waging a war of attrition as two similar applications have already been turned down. Local resident Peter Eldridge said the residents will not give up the fight. 

25 Nov
Plans Crushed: Plans to knock down a bungalow in Kenilworth Rd and replace it with a block of four flats have been turned down by Hart Planning committee.
School Objection: Heatherside School governors have objected to plans to build a block of flats which would overlook the school's playground. There are concerns over privacy, shade, animal fouling and safe access to the school.
Loo Awards: Fleet's "Welcome Break" Services on the M3 have been given a four star rating for its southbound toilets and a three star rating for its northbound toilets in the 2004 Loo of the Year competition.

19 Nov
End in Site: The Elvetham Heath chicanes may be removed early in the new year. Councillor Sharyn Wheale wants the chicanes removed at no cost to the taxpayer. She also demands that the road is "cleared" and alternatives to controlling speed, such as cameras, are discussed after the removal of the chicanes.
Fleet Pond Development: More than 200 people have objected to plans to build new homes close to Fleet Pond. Environmental problems were the main concerns of the objectors.
Taxi Wish: A team of ten taxis will be taking 42 people with special needs to watch a panto in Basingstoke.

15 Nov
FTCG Xmas Raffle: Nearly £2000 has been collected for the FTCG raffle organised by the FTC Manager Sue Collen. The money is to go towards new Christmas lights. Winner Lesley Leather of Resource Recruitment won a Waitrose trolley full goodies.

10 Nov
Guy Fawkes Artwork: fleethants.com's  children's Guy Fawkes art competitions overall winner was Karen Ellis from Velmead school. Full Results.

7 Nov
Scrabble Hope: Fleet Morning Townswomen's Guild member Penny Robinson has won the right to represent the guild at this years National Scrabble Final. She has been playing scrabble for 15 years.
Goodbye to Joe: Hundreds of mourners have drunk a final farewell to  popular member of Albert Street Social Club Joe Barrett. Friends & family travelled from around England to say farewell to Joe who was a well known and much loved man.
All For Michelle: Staff at Fleet's Lloyds TSB bank have been amazed at the generosity of the people of Fleet who have given £1,5000 for Michelle Horton who has leukemia.
Stocks Replaced: Hampshire County councillor John Stocks has been de-selected by the Tory party and replaced by a delighted Hart councillor Sharyn Wheale. 
Latest Plan: Developers Taylor Woodrow's have unveiled their latest plan for the development of the former Gurkha camp at Church Crookham. It includes 1132 houses and more recreational areas.
Scouts Awards: Four Fleet Explorer Scouts, Richard Bennett, Rachel Kelham, Carla Denyer and Jared Cajiuat, have achieved the Duke of Edinburgh's bronze awards. They are the first scouts in the district to achieve the awards.

2 Nov
Chicanery To End: Elvetham Rd's infamous chicanes may be removed after all. Hart District Council have voted to remove the chicanes and to discuss alternative traffic calming measures.

27 Oct
Fleet Rd to be Dug Up: From April 2005 Fleet Rd is to be dug up and re-laid in sections from Kings Rd to the Reading Rd North/South traffic lights. The work will take 6 months to complete and may effect the Carnival procession and Fleet Festivities event.
Carnival Theme: The carnival theme for 2005's golden jubilee is "Fifty Glorious Years". The Carnival committee hope to put on a bumper show with extra events and possibly two marques instead of the normal one.
Peter Remembered: Peter Driver, who  won the six mile gold medal in the 1964 Empire games,  was remembered last week by hundreds of runners who ran in the Memorial 10K event last week. Toby Lambert won in a time of 31min 30sec. Peter moved to Fleet in 1961.

15 Oct
Linking Bridge: A million pound footbridge will be opened to the public in the new year. The bridge will link the Elvetham Heath development with the rest of Fleet. The bridge will soon be lifted into place across the railway line at the Church Rd junction along Elvetham Heath Rd.
Beware Cyclists: Police have launched a crackdown on cyclists who ride on pavements in the Fleet area. Offenders will get an on the spot fine of £30.
Stylists Success: Heidi Davison and Dean Gregory of Marc Antoni in Fleet Rd have made it to the final 12 of the Fellowship Academy of Merit and Excellence team. Five will be selected to form the final team whose work will include styling for Vougue magazine.
On Time Again: The landmark clock above the Emporium has been repaired and is now working thanks to The Rotary Club who funded the part and Roger Cockram of Cockram Jewellers in Fleet Rd who repaired it. FTCG manager Sue Collen co-ordinated the effort to restore the clock.

7 Oct
Garden Waste: The good news is that if you subscribed to the "green bag" service from Hart Council you are now able to purchase 10 bio-degradable sacks  for £5.50 to help cope with the Autumn leaves. The bad news is that fly tipping is rampant throughout the area.
Gurkhas Return: Hundreds of Gurkha soldiers where cheered by a large crowd who had gathered in Gurkha Sq on Sunday. The soldiers are fighting for the right to British citizenship.
Lottery Grant: An award of £4,353 has been made to the Rushmoor Concert Band. The band director Leader Len Tyler said "He couldn't be more pleased. 

1 Oct
Andy Opens Library: Fleet Town FC's developments manager, Andy Sinton, opened a new library and information Centre at Tavistock Infant School. Andy, former star of QPR, Tottenham and Sheffield Wednesday, told the children how lucky they were to get such a new facility and encouraged them to ask their parents to take them down to the FC to support the local team.
Sharyn's Support: Councillor Sharyn Wheale, who has recently had treatment for breast cancer, has lent her support to a coffee morning held to raise £250 towards the Macmillan Nurses charity. 

Sep 26
Firefighters Car Wash: Fleet fireman made £315 for the Fire Service Fund by cleaning cars at their station in Connaught Rd. Two cars drove off without making a contribution.
Happy Residents: In a survey conducted by Elvetham Heath Developments 87% of residents gave their seal of approval for the estate.
Renamed Supermarket: Fleet's Safeway shop on the Elvetham Heath estate is to become Morrisons. Over 100 new jobs have been created for the opening on Oct 7th.

Sep 20
Park Protest: More than 200 people have signed a petition in protest at the dangerous condition of Oakley Park. A mosaic made of sharp glass pieces has been made from glass found in the park and the play area has not been fit to use since the beginning of the year.
New Medical Centre; Partners at Fleet's Richmond surgery are putting forward plans to build a new surgery on the site of the old Shotts nightclub at the Peter Driver sports facilities which was burnt down in Feb 2000 and has been left as an eyesore ever since.
New Retirement Home: Planning officials have recommended approval of a 33 apartment retirement home to replace three homes in Branksomewood Rd. One of the homes is a 19th century Adcote and local residents are protesting that the area is becoming a retirement village and also that Adcote is one of the oldest houses in Fleet.
Carnival Changes: Fleet Carnival Chairman, Mike Hitchens, and Secretary Sue Mclaren  both resigned their posts at the Carnival AGM. The new chairman is Justin Dale and Secretary Donatella Maschio. A bumper Carnival is forecast for next years 50th Jubilee. 
Wild life Danger: Fleet Pond Society members are concerned that plans to build 200 flats and 20 houses on land between Fleet Pond and the railway station would cause the pond wildlife to suffer through an increase in cats and dogs as well as people.

Sep 15
New Minister: The Rev. Stephen Thornton has been welcomed as the new minister for Fleet United Reform Church. He has two children. Mark and Jill. 

Sep 10
Help For Romanian Children: Matthew Gibson, a young musician from Elms Rd in Fleet, is joining a team from "Aid to Children Everywhere" going to Romania to help children in need. The group will travel by road and then spend ten days working in Romania before travelling back. Matthew found out about the trip from a stall at the Fleet Carnival.
Just Missed Promotion: Fleet Cricket team just missed out on promotion as rivals Hampton Hill took the first place and promotion by beating Chenies & Latimer. Fleet skipper Tim Downes praised his side saying "We have had a fantastic season. If we can keep this side we could go one step further next season.

Aug 30
Survey Flawed: Hart District Council are asking for people to send in their views on the proposed humps to be added to Elvetham Rd. They are saying that the County Council survey which stated that there was a strong level of support for the additional traffic calming measures is flawed.
Tree Damage: Five vehicles were damaged when the large branch of a tree fell off in the car park at the rear of Reps 'n' Pets in Church rd. No-one was hurt. The tree had been struck by lightning earlier in the month and was under investigation by Hart Council.

Aug 28
Court Moor School GCSE's:

Results from The Daily Mail
Calthorpe Park School's results not known yet.

Aug 20
Plans Thrown Out: A plan by Berkeley Community Villages to build more homes and a sporting centre of excellence plus many other community facilities on land adjoining Hitchens Lane, has been thrown out by John Prescott after a government planning inspector had agreed to the plan. Local residents groups Feedback were delighted.
Olympic Bronze: Former Heatherside School pupil Helen Reeves has won a bronze medal in Athens for slalom canoeing. Helen tried slalom for the first time on the Basingstoke Canal at Fleet Wharf. Her parents Mary and John moved to Devon last year after living in Fleet for 28 years.

Aug 13
Skateboard On The Move: As part of the Fleet Town Centre Improvements Scheme the Skateboard Park in Victoria Rd car park will be moved north into the views to allow access for the new relief road.

Aug 6
Chicanes Given The Hump: Hampshire County Council are not only going to keep the Elvetham Heath chicanes but are to add 17 pairs of speed cushions. 
Homes Refused: Plans to build seven new homes at 88 Reading Rd South have been refused by Hart Council's planning committee.

July 30
Sewage Overflow: Raw sewage has poured into a Fleet car park used by Fleet Rd traders. Ian Wilson of Design Matters said the problem had existed for a number of years. Thames water believe the spillage is caused by a build up of grease and advised all customers not to put cooking oil, fat or grease down the drains because it sticks to the edges and causes blockages. A 700m length of sewer is to be cleaned in August.
Well Done: The Samantha Dickson Research Trust was presented with a cheque for nearly £500 from a well at the Hart Shopping Centre. The well was made and donated by the Rotary Club of Fleet.
Red Card: A system used by referees in football matches is to be introduced in Fleet by police to help control anti social behaviour. Initially a yellow card is given when a troublemaker is caught. The person is then told that if they commit another offence within 6 months they will be given a red card and charged.

July 23
Crookhams Knight: Stan Knight, historian and parish counciller has died aged 83. Stan served on Crookham Village Parish Council for over 30 years, he was a founder member of the Crookham Village Association, was involved in the Surrey and Hants Canal Society and was a skipper of the John Pinkerton canal boat. He supported the Fleet Boats for the Handicapped Assoc and also appeared on Mastermind his subject being Roman Coins. He helped set up the Fleet and Crookham  Local History Group and contributed regularly to "The News"  history articles.
*** Star rating: Fleets local hospital, Frimley Park, has been given a three star rating, the highest possible.
Champions: 14 year old Jamie Broadey has become the English Schools Under 15 javelin champion. He also took the Hampshire County & Aldershot District titles and won the Trophy for the best field performance at the districts. Jamie's 12 yr old sister Emma took the Hampshire County and Aldershot District Under 13 titles. Other winners were David Brice, County & District u14's titles and best field performance, Lisa Turner the u15's Championship and the Inkpen Trophy and Emily Turner, u14 javelin champion for Aldershot District and runner-up in the county competition. All the children were from Fleet's Coutmoor School.

July 16
Top Violinist: Former All Saints and Calthorpe Park schools pupil Eloisa-Fleur Thom is trying to raise £40,000 to buy her own violin. She was the first Hart Young Musician of the Year, the highest placed British musician in the Yehudi Menhuin International Violin Competition and has played for the Epsom Symphony Orchestra. She has also played at the Royal Festival hall and in The Czech Republic and Romania.
Eyesore Permission: Lynchford Tyres has been given permission to develop its site bordering Kings Rd And Aldershot Rd. The site consists of a former petrol station, kiosk and shop, the tyre and exhaust centre and a storage building. The owner of the site is not keen to develop the site.
Booze Clampdown; Fleet is included in an operation to crack down on binge drinking and alcohol induced violence. During the eight week summer campaign pubs clubs and off-licences could be shut for 24 hours and named and shamed if prosecuted.
New Group Management Team: Fleet Town Centre Group have elected Sarah Anderson as new chairman and Maria Jones as new vice-chairman. Sarah has run Mochaccinos for five years and Maria has run Reps n Pets for four years. Both are looking forward to working with Fleet Town Centre Manager Sue Collen.
Top Cricketers: Fleet Town Cricket Club are top of the Thames Valley League after a victory at Beaconsfield. 

July 9
Parking Uproar: Traders and residents are up in arms at a decision by Andy Artemis, who owns the parking at the rear of Ridgeway Parade, to charge £110 a year to park there.
Highly Commended: All Saints School Junior Orchestra received a "Highly Commended" award when it played in the National Festival of Music at the Royal Festival Hall in London. 11 year old percussionist, Simon Wyld received the New Composition award for a piece called Samba Calypso.
New Rotary President: Jet research engineer, Martin Holmes, has taken over from Ron Postlethwaite as Fleet Rotary Club president.

July 3
New Elderly Complex: A large complex for the elderly is to be built on the site of 22-26 Church Rd by Sunrise Senior Living. The first residents should be there in spring 2006.
Flying Fish Assault: A 34 year old woman has been assaulted outside the Flying Fish in Fleet Rd. A 28 year old man was bailed after being questioned. 

June 28
Music For Youth: All Saints School in Fleet have been asked to perform in the National Festival of Music for Youth at the Festival Hall. The school have performed in three of the last five years.

June 21
Knocked Off Top Spot: Elvetham Heath estate (GU51 1)has come second in a CICA survey which studies household incomes related to post codes. Last year the estate came first with an average income of £64,000 but that has now reduced to £61,000. Top was Kings Hill (ME19 4), West Malling, Kent with an average income of £62,000
Rich Area: Fleet is in 10th place in a new report on towns with the highest income from Claritas Acxiom. It shows that 21.3% of households earn over £50,000 per year. Camberley was eighth with 22.2% and Hook second with 26.3%

June 18
New Start: Claire Brand has opened a new shop following the destruction of her premises in Kings Rd by a car crash earlier this year. The shop, called Walnut Tree, sells gifts and homeware. Claire hopes to bring something different to the area which can't be found in the High St.
Lucky Escape: A driver emerged unhurt when his Peugeot 306 somersaulted on to the bonnet of another car parked in Velmead Rd. Locals in the area said there are many accidents along Velmead Rd due to the tight bends.
Staying Put: Although Fleet Town FC came bottom of the Ryman League Division one they will not be relegated. There is some concern as to how Fleet will perform in the league as they only won five games last season.

June 12
Kebbabed: A kebab van parked in a Cove Rd lay-by was robbed by a man wearing a black balaclava with a handgun. He escaped with £10. Anyone with information should contact Aldershot CID on 0845 0454545 or call anonymously on 0800 555111.
Crack Down: Police are to get tough with local teenagers after complaints about local behaviour in Basingbourne Park and The Verne. There are also problems with youngsters cruising the Fleet and Church Crookham areas. Another problem area is on the land surrounding Parsons Close, Johnson Way and Basingbourne Rd.

June 4
Carnival Royalty:

Tent Event: Although Basingbourn Rd's Tent Event got of to a bad start when Tim Grant broke his arm falling of a ladder whilst helping to erect the tent, event organiser Mark Reilly was pleased with the hundreds of people who attended this years event. He said " The festival has something for everyone."
Longer Hours: From June 14th Fleet Library will open on Wednesdays from 9.30am - 5.00pm and for an extra hour on Tuesday until 8pm and on Saturday until 5pm. The Library will close from June 7th to 12th for maintenance work.

May 31
On Your Bike Bobbies: Fleet's local Beat Officers have a new tool to assist them in their patrolling strategy - Mountain Bikes. . They are able to reach more out of the way places and they have already seized drugs from teenagers in one of the parks. These teenagers were amazed at how quickly the Police had arrived on the scene. Fleet has three more officers on the Beat Officers team: PC Dan LEESE, PC Martin COLE and PC Steve RIELLY who have recently moved to Fleet from Yateley. They join the original team members: PCs Rob LETCH, Jon RICHARDS, Charlie ROSE, Clair CHEGWIDDEN, Steve FRANCIS and Rob LEVEY. They can all be contacted on 0845-045-4545 . Police
Pondtail Targeted: There has been a spate of burglaries in the Pondtail area of Fleet. Homes, garden sheds and garages have been targeted in a spate of 26 reported raids in the past two months.

May 29
All Saints Musicians: The All Saints Junior School orchestra has been invited to play in the National Festival of Music for Youth at the Royal Festival Hall.
More Pitches: People of all ages collected signatures at Hart Shopping Centre to petition for more sport and leisure facilities in Fleet. The petition will be presented to Hart Council by organiser Simon Hedley, secretary of Fleet Town Colts.
Worst Council: Audit Commission inspectors have given Hart District Council the lowest score in Hampshire in their Comprehensive Performance Assessment. The criticisms include, few examples of cost-efficiency measures, loss of services due to budget cuts and the most expensive and worst waste collection service in Britain.

May 27
Sixth Time Unlucky: A sixth attempt to redevelop land at 68 Reading Rd South has been turned down by  Hart's planning committee.
More New Homes Turned Down: Asbridge Homes has failed to get its bid to build nine homes on land at 27-31 Basingbourne Rd.
Plans Approved: Hart's Planning Committee has approved plans to knock down Nos 10 and 12 Fleet Rd near Fleet Station to build 13 new flats.
Carr Out: Former Hart Chairman Peter Carr has left the Consrvative party to stand in Fleet Central as an Independent. 
Doubling Up: Shoppers at Waitrose in Fleet have been seeing double. The store has employed two sets of twins, Katrina and Katherine Gray and Amy and Kelly Scaife.

May 20
Bike Ride: Glen Blake from Constantius Court, Church Crookham has helped raise £25,000 for the NSPCC in a charity ride from the Ace Cafe in North London to the Houses of Parliament in the annual Autoglym Parliamentary Ride.

May 14
Medical Award: Dr Michelle Sinclair has been awarded second place in the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient Focus Awards for her work in setting up the first GP-based treatment clinic for patients with rheumatoid arthritis at the Richmond Surgery in Fleet.
New Vicar: Roy Woodhams will be inducted as the new vicar of All Saints Church, Church Rd.
Rotary Donation: Sailer Laura Baldwin has recieved a cash donation of £2.200 from Fleet Rotary Club to help her compete in the Olympic games in Greece.
100 Years Old: North Hants Golf Club in Fleet celebrates its 100th birthday with a book called  North Hants Golf Club Centenary History 1904 - 2004. The book can be obtained from the club secretary priced £25.

May 7
CCH Candidate: Steve Cantle has agreed to stand as a candidate for the Community Campaign Group in the Fleet West ward. Mr. Cantle said "The current council has ignored the needs of young people and residents in Fleet." The group was formed last year following a meeting over plans to develop the Queen Elizabeth barracks in Sandy Lane.
Tory Leader Resigns: Lorraine Fullbrook, conservative leader of Hart Council has resigned. Counc. Parker takes over until a new leader is chosen

April 29
Tragic Death: Alan Purnell, a 68 year old glider pilot  from Knoll Rd Fleet, was killed near Andover when he collided with another glider in mid-air. An inquest and investigation will take place.

April 23
Protest Against New Sports Facilities: A scheme to build  football, cricket and rugby pitches, a new community building, country park, doctors surgery, and children's play areas plus 300 new homes between Hitchens Lane and Pale Lane has been resisted by local residents group FEEDBAC. A representative from the group said that the present infrastructure is having difficulties coping with recent major developments. 
Not Enough Sports Facilities: A march through Fleet ending in a rally in The Views is being held on the morning of Cup Final day to highlight the lack of sports and leisure facilities in the town.
Revamp: Fleet libraries first floor will be closed from 27 April to 7 June for improvements in lighting and other maintenance work. A local studies area for anyone wanting to find out more about the local area will also be set up.
Loss of Independence: Stephen Gorys, the Independent Fleet councilor is a possible contender for the Tory safe seat of Odiham. Stephen said he had not made up his mind yet.
Specialist Cash: Calthorpe Park School has received  a donation of £500 towards attaining Specialist School Status in maths and IT.
School Improvements: Crookham Infants School is to get £500,000 worth of investment which will provide for two new classrooms bringing all the children under one roof.`

April 16
Lucky Escape: A Honda Accord crashed unto the front of Production Techniques Ltd in Kings Rd. The driver, a pensioner in his seventies, walked away unhurt. The front of the car was buried in a pile of bricks.
Dancing for Charity: Students from the June White Academy for Dance raised £5,000 pound in a sponsored dance at Fleet's Harlington Centre.

April 14
Charity Begins At Fleet: A national survey has placed Fleet as the eighth most generous town in Britain with 71% of households making donations to two or more charities.

April 8
Easter Bunny Winner: The Easter bunny competition run by FTCM Sue Collen has been won by Janice Bell with her children Jessica & Matthew who were presented with a   personalised Easter Hamper and two special Easter Bunnies supplied by Marks & Spencer Simply Foods. Contestants had to find 10 bunnies placed in differing shop windows along the High Street.

April 2
Waste Case Dropped: Eight Hart residents who were going to take the council to court over its £20 garden waste collection service have dropped the case because if they had lost they would have to pay the costs of both parties.  More recycling information 
Heart Shop: Hart Council chairman Brian Leversha has opened Fleet's first British Heart Foundation charity shop in Fleet Rd. Manager Sue Pointon said we are always looking for more volunteers to help run the shop.
School Certificate: Ancell's Farm Community Pre-school has gained the Pre-school Learning Alliance's national certificate. "It is a tribute to the professionalism and commitment of our staff and helpers," said chairman Carolyn Shead-Jones. 

March 26
Canal Woman Dies: Janet Googe who helped raise money for the dredging of the Basingstoke Canal has died aged 68. She was known as "that lovely lady" by everyone who knew her.
New Rail Parking System: Fleet railway station commuters can now use a new system to pay parking fees. Instead of paying by using the pay and display method they can pay by making two phone calls, one to activate and the other to terminate their parking session. Membership cards need to be displayed on the windscreens.
Fleet Half Marathon: Despite the wind and rain hundreds of spectators cheered the runners in this years Fleet Half marathon. First man home was Hagi Chepkwony of the 21st Signals Regiment in one hour seven minutes. First woman was Amy Stiles of Bristol AC in one hour eighteen minutes.
First Lady: Lorna Donnelly has made history by becoming by becoming Fleet Rotary Club's first female member.  

March 17
Chicanes Stay Put: Despite objections from several Hart councillors Hampshire County Council have ruled that the infamous chicanes in Elvetham Rd are to stay.

March 12
Action on Garden Waste Scheme: Four Fleet residents have joined a group of householders from the Hart area who are planning to take Hart Council to court over the scheme to ban garden waste from being put into black bins for collection. They believe that the council has a statuary duty to remove  wheelie bins even if they contain garden waste. More recycling information The scheme starts on the 31 March.

March 5
Hellvetham Rd: Two crashes in just two days have added to the misery suffered caused by the Elvetham Rd chicanes. On Monday a woman crashed into one of the build-outs and less than 24 hours later another woman smashed into another. 
Olympic Hope: Laura Baldwin from Fleet will represent Great Britain in the "Europe" single handed class sailing event at the 2004 Olympic games in Athens. Laura receives little funding and is appealing for sponsorship. Phone 01252 622443 to help.

Feb 26
No More Planks: Fleet Pond Society has been flooded with requests to sponsor planks. The planks form boardwalks over muddy areas of path round the pond. Names of sponsors are put on the planks. There are now no more planks left to sponsor.

Feb 20
Hospital Will Not Close: Fleet Hospital will not close says director of nursing for Blackwater and Hart Primary Trust adding "I think people are suspicious at what the NHS is doing and that this is a done deal but it is not".
KFC Robbery: A gang of 8 to 12 went to a house in Darset Ave and tied up two men and took a third to the KFC in Fleet. The man was forced to open a safe containing several thousand pounds. All three men worked in the KFC shop. The man was driven back to the house and then the gang left the three men unhurt.

Feb 12
Fleet Crash: Four youngsters escaped serious injury when their car crashed into the side of a house after shooting from Basingbourne Rd across Reading Rd South. A young couple and their two children inside the house were shaken but unhurt.
Fleet Hospital Fear: Health chiefs want to turn Calthorpe Ward into a rehabilitation centre and use Cox Ward as a base for a 44 strong intermediate care team. Campaigners have held a meeting at a Fleet church to warn that these proposals could mean the end of Fleet Hospital.
Basis Achievement: Velmead Junior School has successfully applied for the Basic Skills Quality Mark awarded by the Basic Skills Agency. The award is presented to schools who have reached  quality standards in basic education skills such as Reading, Writing and Mathematics.
New Store: A new Tesco Express will soon be opening on Ancells Farm.
Rescue Award: Church Crookham roofer Paul Perry has been awarded  the Royal Human Society award for rescuing a pensioner who fell into the Basingstoke Canal last January in freezing weather.

Feb 8
Richest Estate Eviction: Sentinel Housing Group have had to evict a father from his house at Elvetham Heath development because of his teenage daughters behaviour. 
Halfway There: Calthorpe Park School has raised £25,000  towards a total of £50,000 which is the government target to enable it to access more than £600,000 of funding to become a specialist ICT school.
Reduced Carnival: Fleet Carnival will run from Friday 9th July to Monday 12th July this year. It has been reduced from 7 to 4 days to enable the the committee to start preparing for the carnival's 50th anniversary in 2005. Click here for more info.

Feb 3
Golden Success: Former Fleet schoolboy, Ash Atalia,  has won a Golden Globe award as producer of the hit comedy show "The Office". Ash lived in Stockton Ave for many years.
Fire: A fire in Clarence Rd that had been going for about four hours was put out by three fire engines. A firefighter said he thought the fire had been started by an electricity meter. 
Even More Chicanery: A stolen builders van has smashed into one of the Elvetham Heath chicanes near the Church Rd junction. There have been several accidents since the controversial chicanes were built.

Jan 30
Schoolboy Robbed: A 17 year old and his 16 year old friend were robbed outside The Suntan Studio in Fleet Rd. All three thieves were youths. One was black, just under 6ft tall wearing a hooded top. The other two were white and about 5'8 tall. The incident took place at 4.40pm in broad daylight. They got away with a small amount of cash.
Black Swan: A black swan has appeared at Fleet Pond and is being bullied by the resident white swans. Blackie has a yellow ring round its beak and a white underside. Colin Gray, chairman of Fleet Pond Society, thinks it may have escaped from a private collection.
Exhaustive Robbery: A commuter driving his car away from Fleet Station discovered thieves had stolen his cars exhaust box. 

Jan 26
People Award: Deputy head teacher Tracy McCarthy and teacher Debbie Swallow from Elvetham Heath Primary School have both been awarded the "Investor in People" award. The school is looking forward to moving into a new purpose -built building next month.

Jan 23
World's Best: Court Moor School pupil Gemma Rudyard has won the Junior Youth Intermediate Classic Line Dance World Championship in Nashville. Gemma started Line Dancing when she was only nine years old. This is her second world championship win. Sarah Poulter from Brookly Gds was fourth in the showcase for Open Adults section.
Black Bin Ban: From 29 March 2004 garden waste will be banned from black bins. For £20 per year a fortnightly collection service will be available. The £20 also buys a 120litre reusable bag. Further bags will be available for £10 each. More recycling information
Attempted Robbery: Detectives are appealing for witnesses to an attempted robbery at the Alldays store in Aldershot Rd. Two men wearing balaclavas produced a knife and told a member of staff who was locking up to get back in the store but he managed to run off and hide.. Any one who can help should phone 0845 045 45 45 or 0800 555 111.

Jan 15
TV Too Loud: Council officials have seized an elderly deaf ladies TV because it was too loud. She had been offered hearing aids and induction loops but refused. Fleet Lions offered her a controlled volume TV that she also refused. The noise was affecting the health of neighbours.

Jan 13
Fleet & Church Crookham Health Check: In an initiative created by the Countryside Agency the people of Fleet and Church Crookham will be given the opportunity to influence their future.  The Fleet Town Centre Group are initiating a ‘Health Check’ for the area following a seminar hosted by Hart Council last November.  The Health Check will involve the whole community to produce an Action Plan covering all aspects of life in the area. Andrew Macallan, who is coordinating the  Health Check, said “This is an exciting opportunity for the community to work together to solve local issues.  The review will include development, leisure and recreation, the town centre, transport and social issues and will concentrate on areas of particular concern to the community.  I believe the initiative can have a real impact on the area because the  Action Plan produced will be taken forward by many different Authorities and voluntary bodies.” Members of the public are invited to a presentation at the Harlington Centre on the 27th January at 7.30pm which will explain the project. The Fleet & Church Crookham Civic Society, who are supporting the project  added  “We are excited by this opportunity to address  the many issues which affect the quality of life  in the area.  It is re-assuring to see that Hart Council are embracing the views of the community to shape future policy for the town.  It is important that the project represents the views of the whole community and I hope many interested people will be able to attend the presentation on January 27th”. Anyone requiring further information should contact Andrew Macallan on 01252 668076 or e-mail andrew@macallan-penfold.co.uk.

Jan 10
Post Lady Dies: Popular Postlady Jessica Lees died suddenly at Frimley Park Hospital on 23 Dec aged 77. Mrs. Lees delivered the post in Fleet and Church Crookham for over 20 years.
Site Setback: Fleet and Crookham planning Advisory Group have objected to the application by Lynchford Tyres who want to build 36 apartments on its site at the junction of Kings Rd and Aldershot Rd.

Jan 8
Accidents: A sports car burst into flames after striking a tree in Beacon Hill Rd, Fleet. Although the driver escaped with minor injuries the car was wrecked. Also three people were taken to hospital after a two car crash in Hitchens Lane, Fleet. It was the second accident at the same location in two months.
Trapped Animals: Fireman Dave Hommersham was called out by the RSPCA to free a cat from a tree. The cat had spent three days up the tree at Ancells Farm. Two colleague rescued a parrot and a dog from  a smoke filled house at Park Hill, Crookham. 
Chicane Questionnaire: Forms are available from Fleet Library and Hart Centre asking people's opinion regarding the chicane system used along Elvetham Rd in Fleet. Forms and letters should be sent to: Hampshire County Council, Environment Dept, The Castle, Winchester, Hants. SO23 8UD by Jan 30th.

Jan 2
Ton Up: Fleet's Kathleen White has celebrated her 100th birthday. Katherine who lives in Derriford House, Pinewood Hill says the secret of long life is keeping happy and helping other people. She received a birthday card from the Queen.

2003    TOP

Dec 31
Rotary Record: A record £9,672 was collected by Fleet Rotarians during their annual Christmas collection around the streets of Fleet and Church Crookham, as well as at Redfields Garden Centre and Safeway’s at Elvetham Heath. Click here for full story.

Dec 26
Flat(s) Tyre Plan: Lynchford Tyres has submitted a plan to build 36 flats on its controversial site at the junction of Kings Rd and Aldershot Rd. The owner intends to relocate the tyre and exhaust business. The existing premises have been condemned by local residents as unsightly giving the wrong image to people coming into Fleet.
Safety Crashes: Road safety campaigner Ted O'Toole's family have been involved in two road accidents. His wife was in an accident on the M3 and his daughter has been involved in an accident in Los Angeles. He said his wife was lucky to be alive and fortunately his daughter is not too badly injured.
Diamond Couple: Fleet's Ron and Evelyn West have celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary. They first met on a train in 1941. Evelyn is 81 and Ron 87.
Long Lasting: Derick Hayes, who runs the Hayes & Son shoe shop in Reading Rd South, has celebrated his 80th birthday. Ron has been in the shop for 67 years.

Dec 8
Specialist Schools: Calthorpe Park and Court Moor Secondary schools are both making a bid for Specialist School status. Calthorpe has 947 pupils and wants to become a mathematics and ICT college whilst Court Moor is seeking to become a Science college. Each school must raise £50,000 to get the extra government funding.
More Homes Battle: Residents of Basingbourne Rd are protesting against planning applications to build ten homes were there are now three and also the demolition of a bungalow on the corner to build a row of terraced 2,3 and 4 bedroomed houses.
Fleet First Festivities: Thousands of people flocked to Fleet's first "Fleet Festivities" organised by new town manager Sue Collen. Ten year old Rosie Ehlen switched on the lights. Money raised goes to the "Make a Wish" charity.

Dec 4
More Skating Time: Hart Council have given a two year temporary permission for the Views skating facility to continue. This will give more time for the council to find an alternative site.
Give a Plank This Christmas: Fleet Pond Society is offering planks for sale . The planks will form part of a boardwalk. Buyers will get a certificate and be able to choose a name to be engraved on the plank. They cost £5 each.

28 Nov
Flats Application Withdrawn: Developers Lypar Properties have withdrawn an application to demolish two family homes at 28 and 28a Kings Rd and replace then with 22 flats after objections from local residents.

25 Nov
Off School Legally: Sharon Allsopp and PC Jon Richards were on a truancy trawl in Fleet when they spotted several children out with their parents. But they were exasperated to find the children's school was closed for the day. Sharon said "The school should have told us."
Reduced Beds: Plans to cut the number of beds at Fleet Hospital from 34 to 18 received an angry reaction from volunteers who help keep the place running. They fear it could be the beginning of the end for the hospital.
Promoted MP: Fleet MP James Arbuthnot has been promoted to a top job in Michael Howard's Shadow Cabinet reshuffle.

21 Nov
Excellent Hospital: Fleet Hospital could become a centre of excellence for the rehabilitation of the elderly. The plan drawn up by the Blackwater Valley and Hart Primary Care Trust has gone out to public consultation.
More Drinking Time: The Emporium in Fleet Rd has been granted an hours extra opening time from 11.00 - midnight from Sat to Thursday. It is subject to a condition that there will be no entry or re-entry after 11pm.
Sex Attack:  Two woman aged 19 and 20 were sexually attacked in Jaxx nightclub in Upper Street. A 34 year old man was arrested and later released on police bail pending further enquiries.

11 Nov
Flower Power: David Parry of Oasis Florists has been made one of only 10 honorary members of Interflora.

8 Nov
McDonalds Sign: There is to be a meeting this Wednesday the 12 Nov at the Council Offices to discuss a new McDonalds with 10ft high illuminated sign to be built at the Total r/b in Fleet Rd. See Opinion

6 Nov
Charitable Wall: Geoff Nuzam from Church Crookham has ran the length of Hadrians Wall for charity. It took him six days to complete the 89 mile run. He and a friend, Ed Mawby, raised £1,200 to be split between the Soldiers, Sailors and Airman's Family Assoc and the South African children orphaned by Aids, Starfish. 

26 Oct
Pondtail Election: There is to be a by-election in the Fleet Pondtail seat for Hart Council on 11 Dec following the resignation of Independent member Jan Pearson.

18 Oct
Twinned Pond: Fleet Pond has been twinned with Ham Common LNR, near Poole in Dorset.  The twinning idea was born of the friendship between Peter Martin, Newsletter editor of Fleet Pond Society, and Ian Rabjohns, bird and butterfly recorder at Ham Common. Click for more

17 Oct
Mast Protest: Parents of children attending All Saints Junior and Tavistock Infants schools have sent protest letters to Hart Council objecting to a 29 foot mobile phone mast to be erected in Lea Wood Rd.

9 Oct
Housing Scheme Rejected: Hart Council has rejected the Basingbourne Rd homes scheme because the development was too big and too compact and also lead to the loss of trees and wildlife. The scheme also did not include affordable housing and no prospect of transport and school leisure facilities.
Cloned Car: Church Crookham's  Nicola Pope has been given three London Congestion Charge penalty notices even though she has not visited London on the dates in question. The car involved has the same reg number as Nicola's. The police say there is nothing that can be done other than change her car registration.
Milly's Show: 2,000 people attended a star studded gala to celebrate the life of Amanda "Milly" Dowler. Money will go to Milly's Fund.

3 Oct
Wrong Type of Sign: Mr. Dove, the owner of Ace Electric in Kings Rd has been asked by the council to remove a sign which has been there since the 1920's. Apparently a new the sign put up in 1997 needed planning permission. The council says it is not in keeping with the area. 
More Homes Worry: Redfield's Garden Centre are looking to build more homes in Church Crookham to fund improvements to its garden centre.

25 Sep
Cash Splash: Fleet Rotary Club's Splash 4 Cash charity swim at the Hart Leisure Centre has raised over £5,000 for charity.
Flats Protest: Plans to build 22 flats in Kings Rd have been criticized by local residents. They are concerned about the street scene impact and properties being overlooked. Councillors have been given a number of planning reasons why the proposals should not go through.
Charity Fun Run: Vanessa Higgins hopes to raise more than £200 to help raise awareness of heart disease by running in the Flora Light Challenge for Woman around Hyde Park.
Traffic Light Chaos: Workers who set up traffic lights on the junction of Coxheath Rd and Gally Hill had to switch them off 45mins later because of the ensuing traffic chaos. Total gridlock was experienced as a woman's car jammed across the junction unable to go backwards or forwards.

19 Sep
Town Centre Accident: Edward Beattie and Lisa Darke both suffered injuries when their Saxo car was in a collision with a Clio at the junction of Church Rd and Fleet Rd. Lisa's four year old son Arran suffered from shock.
Peak Challenge: Sarah Bryant of the Secret Garden shop will climb Ben Nevis on Sep 27 to raise money for Homestart. To support Sarah phone 01252 810213.
Still in the Pink: The John Pinkerton celebrates 25 years of fundraising for the Basingstoke canal.
Carnival Payout: Starburst Group, The Fire Service, Friends of Guiding and Fleet Cricket Club have all benefited with donations from this years Carnival success.
New Chairman: Molly Ebdon has resigned as chairman of Fleet Carnival after successfully chairing the committee for a number of years. Mike Hitchen takes her place. Molly will remain on the committee.
Shotts Future: Talks to settle the future of the Shotts nightclub which was destroyed by fire in Feb 2000 are under way. Owner Brian Tydeman says he has lost interested in the land and is willing to give up the lease to the council subject to price agreement.

12 Sep
More Chicanery: Another accident has occurred in Elvetham Rd. A driver smashed into one of the posts at the build out close to Church rd. Cllr Denis Gotel commented "We can but hope that the county remove these chicanes before there is a fatality."
Cowpatch: Plans to fence of part of Fleet Pond Nature Reserve to introduce cattle grazing have been critisised by residents who claim that the plan would prevent the use of the path between Guildford Rd and Gelvert Stream. It would also cause problems with pushchairs and dog walkers. The council stated that cattle grazing is the best method of preserving the natural habitat and would also provide an opportunity for visitors to enjoy countryside management.
New President: Hart Lions Club has thanked Marilyn Robson for all her hard work as president over the last year and welcomed Enid Woods as her replacement.

4 Sep
QEB Delivery: The Queen Elizabeth Barracks Campaign Group have distributed a newsletter about over development of the Fleet area. They state that they are not about stopping all development but to limiting it to a sustainable size. For further info visit http://qeb.jradley.com 

29 Aug
Fleetfest: The Oatsheaf pub and Fleet Lions raised £1,000 for local charities when hundreds of people enjoyed the sounds of Slipstream, Swerve and Rude Mood at the pubs music festival.
Friendly Footpaths: Thanks to a £4,000 donation of top dressing from Grundon Ltd new wheelchair and pram carrying footpaths have been provided at Fleet Pond.
Greener Recycling: An extra collection of garden waste will be introduced in 2004. Putting garden waste in rubbish bins will be banned.
Black Widows: Nesting Black Widow spiders have been found in a truck at the North American Car Co in Fleet. Mark Roe took one to the council's Iris Thompson who identified it. The premises have been fumigated and are now safe.
Flooding Breakthrough: To prevent flooding two