2009 BACK TO LATEST NEWS
2009
25 Dec
Snow Chaos: Snow in the Fleet area caused traffic chaos particularly on
the M3 were motorists were held up for hours due to lack of gritting.
Lighting Up Christmas: Craig Colclough spent three days setting up his
dazzling light display at his house in Frere Ave. Over 10,000 computer controlled
lights. All donations received go to the Fleet and District Guide Dogs.
19 Dec
MP Paying Some Back: Fleet and Crookham MP, James Arbuthnot has agreed to
pay back some of the expenses he has claimed. But LibDem opponent Denzil Coulson
has called for his resignation. list
of expenses claimed
New Recycling Bins: Two new can recycling bins have bee placed in the
Fleet Town Centre to encourage more recycling by local
shoppers. James
Arbuthnot
12 Dec
Ideal Christmas Present: Cheyenne Kai, a young
Fleet author, has just published her first book called "All the Lost Souls:
Damnation". She had been writing it since she was 12 years old and is now
22. It is aimed at the young adult audience but would be suitable for any reader
who likes fantasy adventure written in a colourful and descriptive style. For
more info telephone 01252 629420 or go to www.allthelostsouls.info.
She is in the process of writing her second book "All the Lost Souls: Redemption"
New Pharmacy: A new
chemists has been opened at 157 Aldershot Rd, the old hairdressers in Church
Crookham.
Fine Refund: After a
four month battle Wendy Still has had a parking fine overturned. Last July she
parked in a bay in Fleet Rd and after reading the signs decided she was allowed
to park for half an hour. She returned 20 mins later to find a ticket to pay a
fine of £70. She appealed and because the parking information was not on a
single sign, as it should have been, she won the case.
Best Cook: Chris
Hearn, who is the chef at Elvetham Heath Day Nursery and Pre-school, has been
voted the best Nursery Chef in the country. He was presented with the award by
Esther Ransom at the Hilton Hotel in London.
8 Dec
New No Cold Calling Zones For Fleet: 108
households across Fleet will be covered by four new No Cold Calling Zones.
The new zones cover Holland Gardens, Little Copse, Southby Drive and Coach
House Gardens and bring the total number of No Cold Calling Zones within
Hampshire to 108, covering 9,318 households. Each
zone is aimed at discouraging rogue traders from approaching residents and gives
households the confidence to say ‘no’ to people seeking business at their
doorsteps. They are not meant to stop legitimate
callers such as charities or the local Avon representative, but to deter people
who are unknown to the residents, from seeking work that is often overpriced
and/or unnecessary. Residents receive
special No Cold Calling Zone packs, with information about the zone, consumer
advice and information on cancellation rights. Also included are window stickers
telling visitors that cold callers are not welcome, and a copy of the new ‘Buy
With Confidence’ directory, featuring over 500 organisations from across
Hampshire who have been approved by the County Council's Trading Standards team.
Annual Festivities a Success:
This years Fleet Festivities enjoyed a dry evening and attracted thousands to
the Town Centre for the switching on of the Christmas lights. Amongst the
attractions were an open air ice rink, inflatable horse racing, Victorian swing
boats, Millers Arc Animals, a Tiny Tots R/b and other fairground rides.
Assault In Fleet:
Three men jumped on a 21 year old man in Fleet Rd. One attacker was white around
6ft2inches with short dark hair. Another was white about 6ft, blond hair and
light coloured clothing. The third was white around 5ft8inches. The attack took
place near to a nightclub. Contact Crimestoppers on 0800555111 if you can help
the police.
28 Nov:
Lake Appeal: A 3.5 million appeal to dredge Fleet Pond amidst fears that
the lake may turn into a stagnant ditch is being launched by Fleet Pond Society.
The silt has been building up for over 30 years. To help phone Colin Gray on
01252 616183.
Free Parking: Local traders are up in arms following Hart District
council proposals to allow unlimited free parking in the Fleet Rd car bays
after 3pm when the restrictions are lifted.
New Man U Book: Free lance sports journalist Bob Wightman from Church Crookham
has brought out a new book about Manchester United. It is full of memorabilia
and new pictures. It can bought from Amazon or visit Bob's website at www.RobWightman.co.uk
21 Nov:
Young Dancer: Nine year old ballet dancer Grace Kinnell from Elvetham
Heath is to play the part of one of the mice in the Royal Ballets production of
The Tales of Beatrix Potter.
New Community Store: The old Crookham Village store has bee renovated by
David Long and Caroline Shand to become a successful community store.
15 Nov
Fleet Accident: A man has been taken to Frimley Park hospital with
possible serious injuries after an accident in Norris Hill Rd.
New Fleet Town Plan: A new vision of Fleet is to be put on display in
Fleet Town centre on Dec 4 and 5. A document outlining the ideas will shortly go
out for public consultation.
Pointing In The Right Direction Takes Four Years: After a four year
campaign Monster Raving Looney member Alan "Howling Laud" Hope has
finally succeeded in getting the Saturday Market sign at the Oatsheaf crossroads
to point in the right direction instead of towards Crookham Village.
New Arts Centre: St Nicholas' school has opened a new performing arts
centre called the New Pritchard Hall. The new theatre seats over 300. For more
info phone 01252 850121.
Grant Awarded: The after school youth and study group run by Fleet and
Church Crookham Churches Together has been awarded a £5,000 grant.
12 Nov
Restaurant Fire: Three fire engines were used to fight a fire at
the Tree House Harvester in Cove Rd. Residents from the Innkeepers Lodge were
evacuated as it took 40 minutes to control the blaze.
8 Nov
Remembrance Parade: For the first time in over a decade Fleet and Church
Crookham commemorated Remembrance Sunday with a parade which started from Church Rd car park after the
first half of the remembrance service at All Saints church. The march ended in
Gurkha Square
were the service was continued with the laying of wreaths by the Mayer, local MP
Mr. Arbuthnot and various other organisations. The parade was organised by the
local British Legion. pictures
The Hart Council Chairman, Sharyn Wheale, lays a wreath
Fleet Shoe Site On TV: Helen Chapman's website selling shoes on line has been featured on an ITV programme called "Could The Internet Make You Rich". Helen starting making her own shoes in 2005 and has never looked back. She has launched a new range this year called My Twinkle Toe Shoes. website
30 Oct
Make a Difference: As part of the "Make a Difference "campaign
the Church Crookham Sue Ryder shop is asking for volunteers to help them make a
difference to the community. more
Colourful Spring: The Friends of Oakley park have organised
volunteers to plant thousands of bulbs in Oakley Park. The bulbs were provided
by Hart District Council.
No Amusements: Hart Council have thrown out plans to open an amusement arcade
at 208 Fleet Rd.
Signs Will Not Be Changed: Despite complains about the ambiguity of the parking
restriction signs along Fleet Rd they are not be changed. The council have taken
more than £300,000 in fines since the modernising of Fleet Rd in 2006.
23 Oct
School Club Award: An after school youth and study club at Court Moor
School and run by Fleet and Crookham Churches Together has been awarded a grant
of £5,900. The grant is part of a total of £133,931 awarded to organisations
working with children and young people by Councillor David Kirk, Hampshire
County Council’s Executive Member for Children’s Services.
Fleet Road Parade: Fleet's Royal British Legion branch are organising a Remembrance
Sunday parade along Fleet Rd from Church Rd car park to the memorial in Gurkha
Square. The parade will form in the car park after the remembrance service at
All Saint Church.
School Tidy Up: Students from Court Moor School have spent an afternoon clearing
up Basingbourne Heath as part of the Keep Britain Tidy's Big Tidy Up campaign.
10K Winners: This years Peter Driver 10K race was won by Ted Dicker of Fleet and
Crookham Athletic Club with a time of 33:17. First woman home was Shan Morgan in
37:57.
Mission To Sri Lanka: Ten members of Ocean Stars Trust, a Fleet based charity,
are to travel to Sri Lanka on a 10 day mercy trip. The charity was set up by
Dilanee Bunter from Church Crookham after the 2004 tsunami and has raised more
than £100,000. more
16 Oct
Seatbelt Checks: Officers from Hants fire service, the police and Safer
Roads Partnership have caught 68 people driving without seatbelts during a 6
hour operation in Fleet. Four people were caught using their mobiles whilst
driving and one driver was fined for not being in control of his vehicle.
Warehouse Challenge: Campaigners have launched a high court challenge to the
governments decision to approve the plans for a super warehouse to be built in
Pyestock.
Star Visit: Pop star Peter Andre popped in to Jaxx night club to launch
"Passion" a new Friday night event for the over 21's.
9 Oct
Jobs In Fleet: A new Job Centre Plus service is to open in Fleet at
Hart's Civic Officers every other Friday from 9am to 5pm. For more information
phone 01252 774420.
Parks and Open Spaces: Elvetham Heath Local Nature Reserve came 8th in
its class out of 41 nation-wide. Oakley Park was ranked 11th and Calthorpe Park
16th of 181 national sites.
High Speed Connection: Virgin Media has launched
the UK's fastest broadband service ion Fleet. The 50Mb service is nine
times faster than the average UK headline speed.
Not Amused: Residents are objecting to an amusement arcade which Hart councillers
are being recommended to grant permission to open at the former Portman Building
Soc premises at Norway Parade in Fleet Town Centre.
Plans Thrown Out: A 58 bed nursing home planned by
5k Design and Build to replace two bungalows in Kings Rd have been rejected by
Hart District Council officers because they say it would be unduly dominant and
fail to meet a high quality of design.
Memorial Run: The annual Peter Driver Memorial 10k
run will be taking place around the streets of Fleet on Oct 18th. It will start
and finish at the Harlington Centre.
2 Oct
Learn To Sing: Church Crookham's Victoria Beebee,
who has shared the same stage as Paul McCartney, Status Quo, Bill Wyman and Eric
Clapton, has set up a vocal coaching school called VoxSkool. She welcomes all
kinds of singers from beginners to pro's. website
Cheers: The Prince Arthur has been listed in CAMRA's Good Beer Guide 2010.
It is the only local pub to be chosen by branch members.
Mayers Collection: Last years Hart District Council chairman, Denis Gotel, and
his eldest daughter Caroline and her partner Alan Greenfield have presented a
cheque for over £11,000 to Naomi House Children's Hospice which had been
collected during his period in office.
Nordic Walking: Susan Braganza is holding Nordic Walking taster sessions in
Fleet. Each session costs £5 with the proceeds being donated to the Farnborough
and District branch of the Parkinson's Disease Society (PDS). You can call Susan
on 01252 674200 or email nordicwalking@ntlworld.com
Gurkha Memorial Call: Hart District Council's new chairman Sharyn Wheale is to
raise funds through the Gurkha Welfare Trust to pay for a permanant memorial to
the Gurkhas.
25 Sep
Indoor Market?: Jon-Lee Butler from Church Crookham
has come up with the idea of using the old Woolworth's retail area for an indoor
market to replace the outside market held in Gurka Square. Fleet Town Centre
Manager Paul Doughty said Fleet Forward, the towns volunteer management team,
had discussed the idea. The problem at the moment is that nothing can be
done until Woolworth's is wound up.
Warehouse Challenge: The Pyestock warehouse
development campaigners SPLAT are to mount a High Court challenge over the
governments decision to approve the development.
Outstanding Local Schools: Both Tweseldown Infants
School and Tavistock Infants School have received "outstanding"
awards from OFSTED.
18 Sep
Development Turned Down: A development of 14 homes to be built in
Bowenhurst Rd, Church Crookham has been rejected by Hart officials. Failure to
reach quality and ecology standards was stated by the officials.
New Owners Of Centre: Hart District Council is to hand over the
Harlington Centre to the new Fleet Parish Council. The centre is making a loss
of around £350,000 a year.
Garden Project Opened: A Hart Voluntary Action Gardening scheme has
been officially launched. Set up to clear and tidy the gardens of the elderly,
disabled and vulnerable by a team of volunteers the scheme has been masterminded
by Guy Clayton of Hart Voluntary Action. To find out more phone Sue Vincent on
01252
815652.
Some of the volunteers with Guy
Running For Charity: Paul Gurney who works for the Co-op is taking part
in The Great North Run to raise money for deafness and hearing loss charity
RNID. To help go to http://www.justgiving.com/Paul-Gurney/
11 Sep
Three Of A Kind: Fleet triplets Emily Katherine, Sophie Ann and Grace
Isabel Cooke have been babtised at The Church on the Heath in Elvetham Heath.
The triplets were born 6 months ago to proud parents Naomi and Barry. The couple
also have a daughter Annabel.
Park Vandals: Vandals are ruining Calthorpe Park by setting fire to 70%
of new trees that have been planted and throwing hundreds of bottles around the
Park. Locals are complaining that the problems have been going on for a number
of weeks.
4 Sep
Best Charity: The Lions Community store has been voted Sainsbury's
charity of the year. The store, founded in 1995, has handed out furniture and
household items to more than 45,000 people. For more details contact 01252
616998.
Mega Warehouse To Go Ahead: After years of campaigning SPLAT have lost
their battle to stop the building of a massive warehouse development at Pyestock
on former MoD land. Although they are to appeal it would seem that the battle is
lost. The Department for Communities and Local Government gave the go ahead in
spite of Hart Councils refusal which was backed up by the planning inspectors.
28 Aug
New Town Centre: A long term vision of Fleet Town Centre is to be
published next year. Architects Denning Male Poliano have been appointed to
produce the vision and the project team is to be led by Martin Pearson.
Space Invader: Humphrey Peak who lives in Cove Road is convinced that a
meteorite was responsible for shattering his conservatory.
Cattle may be moved: Cattle grazing on the Velmead common may be moved
because they are being chased by dogs causing them to be nervous. For more info
call 01256381190.
21 Aug
New Mini Estate: 5K Build and Design wants to build
a mini estate in Bowenhurst Rd Church Crookham. They want to demolish four
bungalows to make way for 14 new homes. Hart Council have received a number of
objections to the scheme.
Gluten Free: Fleet's Pippa Rushton-Wines has founded
a range of gluten free cookies which are sold on line.
more
Cookies
14 Aug
Pondtail To Fleet Mini/Taxi: A new service providing transport using a
A2B taxis is to be trialled from Monday Sep 14th. The idea is from conservative councilor
David
Healy as a result of concerns from local people in the Pondtail area during his street surgeries. The loss of Alldays and
A2B Taxi
the local PO has made
this service even more urgent. The fare will be £2 per trip. more
No Late Opening: Propaganda Music Canteen has
withdrawn its application for an extra hour every night of the week. It will
want only to stay open later on Fridays and Saturdays.
Reduced Glass Collection: The fortnightly glass crate collection service
provided by Hart Council is to change to a monthly service commencing in
September.
Swine Flue Collection: The National Pandemic Flu SErvice have identified
Morrisons as the areas Tamiflu collection point.
A2B Taxi
Fleet Man's Plunge: Steven Reeves escaped with his life after falling 60ft
through the roof of the Crown Pub in Chertsey. He suffered hip, back and neck
injuries. It is thought he was trying to reach a stone owl.
6 Aug
Picnic Celebration: Around 300 pupils and former
pupils of Wood Lane Playschool attended a picnic in Oakley Park to celebrate 30
years of local education.
Objections To Nursing Home: Local residents in Kings Rd are fighting to stop the
demolishment of two bungalows to make way for a 58 bed Nursing Home.
Veteran Honoured: Fleet war veteran 88 year old
Eric Brown has been presented with an Armed Forces Day flag by counciller Sharyn
Wheale. Eric was in the Anti-Tank Regiment and was awarded the Military
Cross in 1944.
Not Amused: An
application to open an amusement arcade in Fleet Town centre has caused concern
for local residents who feel it will change the face of the area.
Shocked d Pensioner: Maurice
Stafford was handed a parking ticket after spending 6 minutes delivering a table
to a Debra's charity shop in Fleet Rd.
31 July
Sports Shop Owner Dies: Basil Hawkins who ran Fleet Sports in Fleet Rd has
passed away aged 70.
Possible Sites: Hart Council have identified the coucil offices in Harlington
Way as a brown field site for new homes. Three hundred homes could be built at
Grove Farm in Crookham, 325 at Watery Lane in Church Crookham and 400 on land
near to Pale Lane Farm in Eletham Heath.
Arson Attack: Police are looking for those rersponsible for an arson attack at
the rear of a derilict bungalow in Cambell Close between 2.30 qand 3.10am on
Tuesday. Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if you can help.
24 July
New Wine Bar: Claire Stacey is to open the Bamboo Bar opposite the Prince
Arthur pub in Fleet Rd. The new licence was approved conditionally upon CCTV
being installed inside and out, two trained door staff and bar staff to monitor
noise levels. Claire was denied opening hours until 2pm but can open until 1pm
on Fridays and Saturdays. Other town centre pubs are open until 2pm on these
days.
Asleep On The Job: Chris Carrigan smashed the rear windows of a car in
Aldershot, got in and promptly fell asleep. In court he pleaded guilty to
criminal damage.
High-Tech Centre Approved: Plans to build a data centre between Fleet and
Farnborough have been approved despite local residents fear that the development
will ruin the gap between the two towns and add to the already congested roads
traffic.
Dance Success: Fifty-six pupils with the June White Academy of Dance have
achieved between 81% and 96% in their recent dance and freestyle exams.
more
16 July
Punch Cost £385: Antony Stephens from West Byfleet was fined a total of
£385 for punching another man in the face in front of a police officer after a
night out in Jaxx nightclub in Fleet. He pleaded guilty to common assault and possession
of cannabis.
Fleet's Wheelchair Champion: Lucy Shuker has won the ITF 2 Series Wheelchair
Tennis Doubles with her partner Daniiela di Toro. A week ago they reached the
final of the Wimbledon Women's Wheelchair Doubles.
Champion Lucy
10 July
100 Not Out: Hilda Neville has celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded
by family and friends at the Prince of Wales pub. Hilda moved to Fleet from
Andover when she was 5 years old.
Donor Award: Dorothy Fitchen from Church Crookham
has been awarded a crystal plate by the National Blood Service for giving blood
75 times. It is estimated that she could have saved up to 225 lives.
2 July
Andrews Memorial: Andrew Macallan has donated an
interpretation panel, individually designed by local graphic artist Andy
Bardell, which gives information about Basingbourne Heath. The panel is a
memorial to Andrews wife who lived in Fleet most of her life and cared about the
environment.
New Walks Book: Fleet's Stephen and Pam Turner
have published a revised and updated edition of "Walks Around The
Blackwater Valley". Get your copy by phoning 01252 810852
25 June
No Objection: Natural England has
decided not to object to the Pyestock Mega Depot as they do not think that the
development will have a significant effect on the habitat of threatened bird
species. A decision on the development is expected on Aug 6th.
Boards Threat: There are now more than 50 sandwich advertising boards in Fleet
and many of them are under threat because they do not meet Hampshire
highways guidelines and are a danger to disabled people and the elderly. Fleet
Town Centre manager Paul Doughty has warned that the County Council are ready to
take action.
Free Parking: The Hart Council is to allow free parking for the Fleet Carnival
procession day on 11 July.
Jobs Website: A Fleet mother has launched a jobseekers website for those who
want to work away from a desktop. To find out more visit www.jobswithoutdesks.com
Promotion: Fleet netball champions Heath Hoops who were formed only three
years ago have won promotion for the second year running.
19 June
No Extension: An application from the Jaxx nightclub in Fleet to stay
open until 2am on Bank Holiday Sundays has been turned down by Hart Council.
Missing: Police are looking for a Christopher Wells
who was last seen in Church Crookham on June 5th. He is white with a stocky
build and light brown stocky hair. He is clean shaven, with a round face and
wears glasses. Last seen he was wearing black and white checkered shirt and blue
jeans. Call 0800555111 if you can help.
New Care Home: A new 74 one and two bedroomed care home to replace old buildings
in Campbell Close has been given the go ahead by Hart District Council.
Ebay Scam: Andrew Masterson has been jailed for 5 years for his
involvement in a £350,000 ebay stolen goods scam.
OBE: Fleet's Michael Ankers who is chief executive of the Construction
Products Assoc has bee awarded an OBE.
12 June
Sharyn Beats Denis: Conservative Sharyn Wheale held on to the Hart seat
in the county elections beating Denis Gotel by over 1.5 thousand votes. In the
Church Crookham & Ewshot seat Community Campaign Hart gained the seat from
the Conservatives. full
results
Bakers Fined: The previous owners of the two Wrights Bakery shops in
Fleet and Church Crookham have been fined £1,780 for hygiene offences. Dirt,
cobwebs, debris, ineffective cleaning equipment, mold, rodent and mouse
droppings were amongst the problems discovered at the premises.
Time Capsule: A time capsule has been buried by children from the
Buttercups Day Nursery at the Bupa owned Freeland's Croft nursing home in
Redfields Lane. The capsule was filled with memorabilia including hand drawn
pictures of the area.
Coast To Coast: James Starling from Woodcote Green has cycled from Lands
End to John O'Groats in just four days for charity. Contact Malcolm Inglis on
01252 615 916 to make a
donation.
Buttercups Day Nursery
5 June:
Pyestock Decision Delayed: A decision on the
Pyestock mega depot has been put off because the Dept for Communities and Local
Government needs more information from Natural England regarding the impact the
proposals would have on The Thames Basin Special Protection Area - land
protected because of its habitat for a number of threatened bird species.
Bike Ride For Charity: Fleet's Paul Hobson is to
attept a 2,600 motor bike ride from the UK to Casablanca and back next month to
raise money for Honypot Charity. To donate go to www.justgiving.com/rideofthebumblebee
30 May
Increased Members: Fleet and Church Crookham Society has a reported 20%
increase in membership since the demise of the Fleet and Church Crookham
Residents Society last year. For more details and to see what the society does
click
here
New Pond Book: A new book called "Fleet Pond Society - The First
30 Years" has been written by the Pond Societies president Peter Martin.
For more info call 01252 629420 684828.
more
24 May
Pond Plans Rejected: Plans by Helical Bar (Fleet) Ltd to build over 200
new homes overlooking Fleet Pond have been turned by Hazel Blears, Secretary of
State for Communities and Local Government. Hart District Council had already
rejected the scheme.
School to Close: Wood Lane Playschool is to close in July. Owner Liz
Hume-Wright has decided to retire.
Lost Snake: Driving Instructor Stuart Taylor discovered a snake on the
King's Rd opposite Lynchford Tyres. His pupil did a perfect emergency stop and
Stuart managed to get the snake in a plastic bag and take it to Pets Emporium in
Sandhurst. If you know who might own the snake phone Mr. Taylor on
07786517855.
Shoe Sale: Kristena Shoes has been bought by Hart Travel owner Roger
Crocker and his daughter Sally Hitzalla.
Top Marks: Court Moor Centre Community Group have received the highest
award of "outstanding" from
Ofsted.
Playgroup Logo
Champions: Crookham Rovers U16s have won the NEHYL Premier league.
15 May
MP's Expenses: 
Fleet
and Church Crookham MP James Arbuthnot, who is a direct descendant of James 1st
of Scotland, has apologised for claiming expenses for pool maintenance, a
housekeeper, work on trees, property insurance, furnishings, a house sign, an
oven, decorating and windows.
Art Award: Jean Haines, who is from Church Crookham, has won the Anthony
J Lester Art Critic Award at the Society of Women Arts annual exhibition at the
Mall Galleries in London. One of the award presenters was Gloria Hunnerford
Jeans Website 
James 1st of Scotland Watercolour by Jean
Climbing Fun:
Two new climbing boulders are to be unveiled at Oakley Park on May 22nd.
The boulders, which are ideal for older children, were bought with lottery
money.
Poll Battleground: The candidates for next months County
Elections are Hart Fleet: Sharyn Wheale (con), John Davies (lab), Denis Gotel
(ind). Church Crookham and Ewshot: Jenny Radley (community campaign hart),
Pritpal Singh (con), Jim White (lab)
7 May
Drama Award: Fleet's Alex Maude from the Ann Bauer School of Drama in
Fleet has won the open Shakespeare Cup playing Bottom from A Midsummer Nights
Dream at the recent Bristol Eisteddfod.
Parking Victory: After an appeal lasting 7 months over a parking ticket
Eric Moggach, 62, has had his penalty Charge Notice overturned. Eric, who is
disabled and needs extra space to open his car doors to get out, parked in two
spaces in the Gurkha Square car park. Eric stated that he had been given special
dispensation to park by parking attendants but nevertheless was still given a
ticket.
Tyre Fire: A blaze at Lynchford Tyres in Kings Rd took 20 minutes to
control by firefighters. Vandals are suspected to have started the fire. By the
time owner Derek Bell arrived after being informed just after midnight the blaze
was under control.
Reduced Parking Fees: Evening charges for parking in Victoria Rd, Civic
Officers, Harlington Rd and the Central Courtyard have been cut from £1.60 to
£1 and Gurkha Sq charges cut by 10p.
Money Swimmer: Matthew McAllister, 10, who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Type
3(EDS) is hoping to raise £4,000 for a younger child, Olivia Court, who has
also been diagnosed with EDS, by completing a 1,000 metre swim. The swim will be
a tough test for Matthew. To help visit www.teamcoloursuk.org.uk
Fleet FC More Success: Fleet Town FC have won the Russell Cotes Cup Final
by beating Hayling Island 3-1 with goals from Michael Douglas, Tom Bird and
Bernard Asante. They have recently won the Hampshire Cup.
1 May
£20.000 Raised: Christ Church Community Project has raised over £20,000
at its fundraising launch event. Aiming to raise £500,000 towards a major
building project at Christ Church in Church Crookham fundraisers were delighted
with the fantastic start made. For details of future events visit
www.christchurch.crookham.org.uk 
30 May
Fleet Win Cup: Fleet Town FC uncorked the champers after winning the
Hampshire Cup at St Mary's ground, the home of Southampton FC. After two
previous finals in the last three years Fleet finally got their hands on the cup
after a very even game against VTFC in front of a crowd of 1,242 fans. With
chances at both ends the game seemed to be heading for extra time when, with
only seconds to go, Nathan Smart scored with a thunderous drive into the back of
the net. Fleet skipper and MOM Steve Noakes lifted the cup to the delight of
Fleet fans who were left disappointed two days ago when they failed to clinch a
place in the play-off final in the Ryman One league.
St Mary's Ground
28 April
Fleet Lose Promotion Chance: Fleet Town FC went down 1-0 at home to the
Metropolitan Police in their Ryman One South play-off semi-final. The police
took the lead in the first half and held on until the end after determined late
attacking failed to produce a vital goal for Fleet. This is the third consecutive
year Fleet have lost out in the play-offs.
Butchers Success: Kevin Horn, who joined Clark Butchers from Court Moor
School, has reached the semi-final stage of BBC3's Young Butcher of the Year
competition. Although Kevin did not reach the final he hoped his efforts will
bring more business to the shop in Fleet Rd and promised to win the competition
next year.
23 April
Damaged Path Repaired: A walkway at Fleet Pond has been repaired by
volunteers as part of Action Earth 2009. Pond Chairman Colin Gray stated that
erosion by high water had damaged the timber bridge and part of the footpath
causing a risk to cyclists.
Stylish Win: Stylists from the KJM Salons in Fleet have won the
Schwarzkopf Professional Creative Team Competition 2009 held in London.
17 April
Rejected: A plan to build four detached homes behind 41 to47 Wood Lane
has been turned down by Hart Council.
House Fire: Colin Johnson and his wife and children suffered smoke
inhalation and burns after a fire at their home in Dinorban Close.
15 April
Not Enough Schools: Next year children in the Fleet and Crookham areas
may have to go to secondary school in Aldershot or Farnborough due to lack of
facilities in local schools.
Parking Freeze: Parking charges in the Hart area are to be frozen this
year.
More Room: Hart Council has agreed to increase the burial space at Fleet cemetery.
Without an increase there could be no space left within the next few years.
Speed Limit: A speed limit of 30mph is to be introduced along Hitches
Lane from Reading Rd North to the new roundabout were the road will be diverted.
10 April
Charity Canoe Marathon: After three months training local canoeist Brian
Biffin will be paddling the World's longest canoe marathon from Devizes to
Westminster over the 4 days of Easter. Brian who wants the money raised to go to
the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice will be backed up by his wife Anne and fellow canoeist
Mike. To donate
click here
Brian at the back with partner Mike
Reunion: Former Court Moor School pupil Peter Cole
is arranging a class of 84 reunion on Sat June 13th. for more info email
petecole@hotmail.com
Five Years of Charity Raising: Volunteers from the British Heart
Foundation shop in Fleet rd have celebrated the shops 50th birthday.
Outstanding School: Oftsted have judged Court Moor School as outstanding
for overall effectiveness and capacity to sustain
improvement.
more
Expensive MP?: Expenses claimed by local MP James Arbuthnot total
£146,192 for the year ending 5th April 2008. Allowances totalled £141,026 and
Travel £5,166
more
James Arbuthnot
First Aid: The Red Cross is running an Emergency
Life Support course at the Fleet Red Cross Centre at 141 Clarence Lane in Fleet
on April 22nd. The course costs £20. Call Charlotte on 01483447872 to find out
more.
3 April
Carnival Recovers: After the Fleet Carnival EGM in February a meeting was
called to discuss the future of Carnival. At this meeting the Carnival Chairman
and a member of the committee resigned. This left only four committee members and no Chairman or Secretary was in place. Since then, after an advertising
campaign run by Vice President Allan Gibson, the Carnival committee has grown to around 10 with a new Chairman and Secretary
elected. This years Carnival will be held on 11 July with a Children's and a
Grand procession. A line dance will also be held on 10th July in the Harlington
Centre.
Illegal Signs: Campaigner Peter Ashford is calling on Hart Council to
stop giving parking tickets and refund paid fines for parking in what he claims
are illegal parking bays in Connaught Road and Clarence Road.
Free Swimming: From the 1st April over 60's and under 17's can go
swimming in Hart Leisure Centre free of charge. The government scheme is set to
run for two years.
New WI Group: A new Woman's Institute has been set up in Elvetham Heath.
For more details contact heathuns@googlemail.com
Drama Awards: A Fleet School of Drama run by Ann Bauer has won many
awards in the drama section of the Woodley Festival held over two weeks in
Reading. The
group, aged between 10 to 19, won 8 trophies in total.
Gurkha Portrait Moved: Martin Bennett has won a two year battle to move a
portrait of a Gurkha Soldier from a hidden corridor to a prominent position in
the Harlington Centre Reception area. The portrait was presented to Fleet Town
when the Gurkhas left some years ago.
27 Mar
Jump For Charity: Melony Robertson and her sister Louse Jankoski plus
some old school friends from George Abbot school in Guildford have come up with
the idea of skydiving for the Help For Heroes charity. To donate contact girlsjump@hotmail.co.uk
Centre Refurbish: A £360,000 project to refurbish the Velmead Centre in
Church Crookham is under way. There will be an extension to the hall and the children's
play area plus a new kitchen and disabled toilet.
Bone Marrow Donors: Around 40 people signed up to a bone marrow
recruitment clinic at Court Moor School organised by teenager Jo Smith to
celebrate the success of her sister Beth who has been given the all clear by
doctors after treatment for leukemia.
21 Mar
We're Well Off: Hart District is officially rated
by the Government as the least deprived district in the whole of England. This
means that we receive the lowest level of government grant per head of
population of any other district.
M3 Control: Lights are to be installed on the M3
Fleet northbound junction to help control traffic joining the motorway. Lights
have already been installed on the southbound junction. Work is expected to be
completed by summer 2009.
Half Marathon: Matthew Blundon won the Fleet half
marathon in a time of 1hr10min48sec. Mark Croasdale was second and Matthew
Bennett third. Victoria Gill was first woman home in 1hr17min49sec followed by
Claire Donald and Louise Vallier. The race was run in lovely sunshine and well
supported by local people who crowded into Fleet Rd.
Donors Needed:
Caroline Bicheno, who is suffering from Hodgkin's lymphoma, is urging people to
join a bone marrow database. Caroline who fears she may not see her children
start school, requires a bone marrow transplant. Those willing to help should
visit the Anthony Nolan Trust website at www.anthonynolan.org.uk
Fleet Festivities Threat:
The annual Fleet Festivities Christmas event held in Fleet Rd and organised by
Kevin Whibley, chairman of the Fleet Business Partnership, may not be held this
year unless more support is forthcoming. Kevin has decided not to organise the
event this year due to business committments and family pressures. He is also
putting the Business Partnership into mothballs for a year. It is hoped that
Paul Doughty, Fleet's Town Centre Manager will be able to take on the event with
the support of Hart Council but he requires willing volunteers to save the
event. If you can help contact Paul on 01252 774079.
News Merger: The Fleet
News and The Fleet Mail are to merge to produce one broadsheet which will be
published every Friday.
Young Chef: Chloe
Tayler, from Calthorpe park school, is through to the finals of the Future Chef
competition.
16 Mar
Canal Threat: Hart Council have approved plans to redevelop Poulters
Bridge Cottage a beautiful residence by the Basingstoke canal in Crookham
Village. Local residents have criticized the development of two storey
extensions at the site.
Volunteers Wanted: The British Red cross are asking for volunteers to
give some of their time to collecting money in Fleet for vulnerable people at
home and abroad during their appeal week between May 3 and 9. To help call
Charlie on 01962 866833.
Fleet Reach Final Again: Fleet Town FC have reached the final of the
Hampshire Cup after beating Eastleigh 2 - 0. It is their second final appearance
in three years. They will play VTFC in the final at Southampton's St Mary's
Stadium on April 30th.
12 March
Pond Appeal For Help: Fleet Pond, the largest freshwater lake in
Hampshire, needs volunteers to join its conservation team. Repair of the pond's
spring banks will take place on April 12th and footpaths fixed on May
10th. Contact Mr. Gray on 01252 616183 if you want to help.
Fleet Pond in Winter Courtesy of photographer Claire Gibson
Lollipop Winner: Michael (Mike) Cotton, who patrols the Gally Hill Road site in Church Crookham near to Crookham Infant School, has been voted Hart’s district finalist in a competition to find Hampshire’s favourite School Crossing Patrol of the Year. He was nominated by the the Morris family, whose two children attend the local infant school, wrote: “He (Mike) always has a wonderful smile and is cheerful, no matter what the weather is. He is always very smart, a true gentleman and good role model. We were without a lollipop man for over a year and that’s why we really do love Mr Cotton.”
6 March
Redfield Revamp: Redfields Garden Centre has been given permission by
Hart Council to redevelop its business into a new hi-tech centre. Owner Malcolm
Goater hopes to start the work this Autumn and it is expected to be complete by
Spring 2011. The old garden centre will remain open during the work.
Shops to stay Closed: Fleet Town Centre Manager, Paul Doughty has warned
that due to administrators work on the affairs of Woolworth's, The Officers Club
and Adams shops in the Hart Centre re-letting the units may not be possible for
a year or so. Even ideas to make the shop fronts more attractive have been
rejected.
University Challenge: Fleet's Simon Baker has won the University Challenge
Quiz show as part of the Manchester University team after a member of a rival
team had been disqualified.
27 Feb
Dutch Painting: Fleet artist Peter Richardson has completed a portrait of
the retiring President of the International Court of Justice, Rosalyn Higgins.
The painting is being displayed at The Haig in Holland. Peter had a gallery in
Fleet for more than 20 years and has paintings on display at the Phoenix Gallery
and Farthingale Centre at Hartley Wintney.
102 Celebrations: Agnes Apsey who lives at a Marlborough Hse nursing home
in Church Crookham celebrated her 102nd birthday on Feb 17th.
20 Feb
Load Of Rubbish: Areas of Fleet and Crookham, such as Pondtail Rd and
Elvetham Heath have not had rubbish collections for over three weeks due to the
recent heavy snowfall. Residents have complained about bags being left on the
pavement attracting vermin. The council blames Health and Safety problems during
the bad weather and refuse to put in earlier collections to deal with the
backlog.
Dinner Cancelled: A charity dinner dance in aid of the Naomi Trust has
been canceled by the organiser Hart Council Chairman Denis Gotel. Mr. Gotel
blamed the recession, redundancies and the weather for people not buying the
£20 tickets. He added "Fleet has lost its community spirit.
Upper Street Danger: A "call for action" has been made from
residents and business owners regarding the junction between Upper St and Albert
St and Clarence Rd. There have been a number of accidents near to the junction
and it is feared that someone will get seriously hurt if nothing is done.
Boar Spotted: Wild boar have been seen near Dogmersfield by Fleet
resident Mrs. Mead. They have been extinct in the area for 300 years.
6 Feb
Harlington Meeting: At a packed cabinet meeting to discuss the future of
the Harlington Centre it was disclosed that 70% of the footfall for events held
at the centre were from Fleet and Church Crookham residents. 22% from elsewhere
in Hart and 8% outside Hart. 100% of costs were paid by Hart Council. It was
proposed that the annual losses incurred be reduced from £350K to £175K. For
the year 2009/10 events booked by current users will be honoured. Existing
concessionary rates offered to charities will be retained but there will be an
increase of 5% in hire fees. Concessionary rates offered to commercial users
will be curtailed. The staff requirement will be reduced from 11.7 to 4.5. It is
proposed to close the centre when there are no events running. For the future it
is proposed that the Parish Councils take ownership of the centre in April 2010
and will be responsible for the running costs. It was also proposed that in the
long term a more modern facility should be built locally to replace the
Harlington Centre. Only this years changes will be put in hand all other changes
are only proposals at this time and all users will be kept fully up to date.
Development Condemned: The Carling Homes housing
development at the Peter Driver Centre has been condemned by the government
agency Sport England .
Winter Wonderland: Fleet was covered by a record breaking
6"of snow with on Monday. more
pictures
Closed Down: Thomas Day Motors in Fleet have called
in administrators. They are closing down after 40 years in the area. The
recession has been blamed.
30 Jan
For Children: A new under water themed play centre has opened in Church
Rd called Archie's Submarine. website
Crondall Rd Danger: Residents were invited to
give their views on new plans, which include reducing the speed limit to 30mph
and introducing more signs, to make Crondall Rd safer. One residency stated that
he wanted features to force drivers to slow down not signs and paint.
Offices Like Houses: Invista Real Estate plans to
build new officers in Ancells Park to replace The Beech Hse and Hays Hse have
been thrown out by Hart Council.
School Remembers: Pupils from Court Moor School
wore paperclips to school to mark the Holocaust Memorial day. The theme of the
event was Stand up to Hatred.
Well Done: The Fleet and District group of the
Phyllis Tuckwell Trust raised more than £37,000 in 2008.
fleethants supports the trust events
New Sponsor: This years Fleet half marathon to
be held on March 1st is to be sponsored by Lucozdade Sport.
23 Jan
Harlington Not Closing: The council confirmed to a meeting of the
Harlington Centre users that it had no intention of closing down. The meeting
was called to get the users views on new manning proposals. The council aim to
provide 1 and a half men i.e. a staff manager and caretaker, to be on duty
whilst events were taking place. At a noisy meeting many of the users feared
that the centre was to be closed or class hire fees were to be substantial
increased, had started to look elsewhere to run their events. Starburst
stated
that this years summer show could be called off. The point was made that this
could lead to further non-use of the facilities and further problems to add to
the £350,000 losses already being made per annum. £500,000 is already being
spent on the centre with an income of only £250,000. The council is to have
meetings with the staff and will then report back to the users.
Chess Champ: Seven year old Harry Grieve, a pupil
at Velmead Junior School, has won the London Junior Chess Championship. He has
only been playing for one year.
Composer Champ: 15 year old Fleet student Ralph
Wyld has been named best jazz composer in the Sibelius Student Composer of the
year competition. click
here to hear the composition
Ralph
16 Jan
Recession Bites Hard: Woolworth's have closed their
doors for the last time in Fleet. Also Adams and Officers Club have closed and Maher's
Book shop is due to close on Feb 14th. The good news is that their are no
plans to close the Fleet outlet of M&S.
No Markets: There will be no Hampshire Markets this
year in Fleet. This is due to reduced footfall.
Cold Start: A temperature of -8.8C was recorded in
Fleet on the 7th Jan by Fleet amateur weather enthusiast Chris MacDougall. more
Reunion: Peter
Cole wants to bring together Court Moor School's class of 1984 Tickets for the
event at S Farnborough Working man's club are £10. For more info phone 07801
496455.
Man Steals Drill: A Fleet man stole a power drill
from his friends house "but did not know what to do with it". He rec
40 hours of unpaid community work.
Velmead Tragedy: Luke
Soane, aged 17, was killed in an accident along Velmead Rd when his motorcycle collided with a Hyundai car. He was taken to Frimley Park Hospital were he died
the following day.
Thousands Raised: Fleet
Morning Townswomen's Guild has raised £2,620 for its 2008 chosen charity. The
money is to be donated to the charity Help for Heroes.
8 Jan:
Cycle Warning: Last year 57 bikes were vandalized
or stolen from Fleet Station. Cyclists have been warned to ensure they
secure their bikes.
Getting Ahead: Many police in the Fleet area are to
be fitted with head mounted cameras (head-cams) which can provide evidence to be
used in court.
Ice Warning: People are being warned to keep of the
Basingstoke Canal and Fleet
Pond when iced over. The ice may be very thin
causing a high risk to any one skating or walking on it.
Double Whammy: Parents Dean Durrant and Allison
Spooner have had a second pair of twins. Sven years ago twin girls Lauren and
Hayleig were born and now the Church Crookham pair have done it again with the
births of Miya and Leah.
New Year Babes: Lucy and Lawrence Godfrey had Toby
at 2am on New Years day and Katie Coughlan and Adam Warren saw their daughter
Aaliyah born at 6.20am
2 Jan
Special Present: Oliver John Nicholson was born at
Frimley Park Hospital at 5pm pm Christmas day. Mum and dad, Kylie and Lawrence
were delighted. Both parents, who live in Fleet, are planning to move to
Australia this year. They plan to wed in April.
Well Done: The recent Fleet Festivities raised
£3,523.10 to give for holidays to sick children.