Author name: Rob Francis

Rob Francis is a dynamic presenter on Overton Radio, known for his engaging style and infectious energy. With a knack for creating vibrant and entertaining shows, Rob brings a blend of the latest hits, lively conversations, and real-time updates to his listeners. His passion for radio and charismatic personality make him a favorite among fans, whether he's hosting the Afternoon Show or the Weekend Breakfast Show. When Rob’s on air, you can always count on a captivating mix of music and fun.

Blog

Lordsfield Swimming Club Reopens After £1.16 Million Refurbishment

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After months of renovation work and an investment of £1.16 million, Lordsfield Swimming Club will reopen its doors this afternoon, marking a major milestone for the community. The grand reopening event kicks off at 2pm and promises a vibrant afternoon of celebration.

The pool has undergone significant upgrades to modernise its facilities and improve accessibility. Among the improvements are updated changing areas, refreshed poolside amenities, and essential structural repairs designed to secure the future of the much-loved venue.

This afternoon’s event will be attended by club members, local residents, and community representatives, all keen to see the results of the long-anticipated refurbishment. Adding to the festivities, Overton Radio will be on hand to entertain guests.

Public Transport, Village News

South Western Railway Moves into Public Ownership On Sunday

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From Sunday 25 May 2025, train services operating through Overton will officially come under public ownership as South Western Railway (SWR) is transferred to a government-run operator.

The change follows the introduction of the Passenger Railways Services (Public Ownership) Act 2024, and marks a significant milestone in the government’s broader plan to bring the UK’s railways back into public hands.

SWR services will now be operated by a new public sector company, South Western Railway Limited, a subsidiary of DfT Operator Limited. This company will eventually become part of Great British Railways (GBR), a new national rail body intended to streamline the country’s fragmented rail network.

Despite the change in ownership, there will be no immediate impact on passengers using Overton Station. Train timetables, ticket prices, and existing bookings will remain unchanged, and customer services – including railcards and website access – will continue to function as usual.

Village Events, Village News

Overton School Gears Up for Summer Fete Extravaganza – Volunteers Needed!

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With just one month to go until the highly anticipated Overton Primary School Summer Fete, the organising committee is issuing a heartfelt call for volunteers to help make this year’s event an unforgettable success. Set to be a vibrant community gathering taking place on Saturday June 21st, the fete promises fun for all ages, with Overton Radio on hand to host the day’s festivities.

The committee is seeking assistance in a variety of capacities, offering flexible ways for individuals and families to contribute their time and talents.

Sport, Tennis

Overton Tennis Club Announces Autumn Junior Training Programme

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If you’ve got a budding tennis star at home, or just a youngster keen to try something new, then Overton Tennis Club has just the thing for you!

This friendly, family-focused club, right in the heart of Overton at the ORC, is gearing up for its popular Junior Training Sessions once again. They’ve got two great hard courts, and they’re open all year round for a game!

This year, our junior training will run for six weeks, kicking off on Thursday, 12th September, and wrapping up on Thursday, 17th October. These sessions have always been a huge hit, helping loads of local kids get into tennis and have a blast while learning. We’d absolutely love to see even more new faces join us this year!

The best part? The whole six-week programme is just £15.00 per person, making it super affordable for everyone. And it’s not just for existing members – non-members are more than welcome to join in and give it a go!

Ready to sign up your little one? Or just want to find out a bit more? Simply get in touch with Carlos Tilbury, the club’s Chairman. You can drop him an email at carlostilbury@hotmail.com or give him a call on 07880 705047.

Crime, Village News

Attempted Break-In at The Red Lion – Appeal for Information

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An attempted break-in occurred at The Red Lion public house in Overton at approximately 3:30am this morning. Two individuals were captured on CCTV footage trying to gain access to the premises.

The suspects were seen arriving in what appears to be an older-model white Ford Transit Connect van, believed to be more than ten years old. They are described as being of Eastern European appearance.

While the individuals were caught on camera, the vehicle’s registration plate was not clearly visible. It is believed that this may not have been an isolated incident, and there is concern that local pubs and restaurants are being specifically targeted.

Anyone with relevant footage or information is asked to contact The Red Lion directly on 01256 212053 or report it to Hampshire Police.

Public Transport

Roadworks to Close Part of B3400 Near Oakley – Bus Diversions in Place

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Drivers and bus passengers are being advised to plan ahead next week as essential roadworks will see a stretch of the B3400 closed for up to two days.

From 5:00am on Tuesday 28th May, the B3400 will be closed between Rectory Lane and Fox Lane in Oakley to allow for surface dressing to be carried out. The works are scheduled to take place between 5:00am and 10:00pm each day, and are expected to be completed by Wednesday night, weather permitting.

As a result of the closure, Stagecoach bus service 76 will divert via the A303 between Basingstoke town centre and Overton, meaning it will not serve stops at Worting or Oakley during this period.

Evening services will not be affected.

Residents and commuters are being urged to allow extra time for their journeys and to be patient while the improvement works are carried out.

Village News

Testbourne Community School Charges Ahead with New EV Charging Points

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Testbourne Community School is driving forward with its commitment to sustainability by installing four brand-new electric vehicle (EV) charging points at the front of the school grounds.

Powered by renewable energy supplier Bright Green, these state-of-the-art chargers are now live and available for public use. Whether you’re dropping off the kids, running errands, or just passing through, you can now top up your vehicle with ease.

The chargers can be accessed via a smartphone app or directly through an intuitive touchscreen kiosk, making the process as smooth as possible for both seasoned EV drivers and those new to the experience.

This local initiative forms part of a broader push to make greener transport options more practical and accessible across the region. By installing public-use charging infrastructure in central community locations, Testbourne is helping to pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future — one charge at a time.

Overton Radio

Overton Radio Flash Briefings Return to Alexa – Now Fully Automated!

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After a brief pause, Overton Radio’s flash briefings are once again available for Amazon Alexa users. The previous version proved a challenge to update daily – but thanks to a brand-new automation system, your Overton Radio news is now completely effortless on our end and seamless on yours. Details of how to enable the skill can be found on overtonradio.com/alexa

Overton Music Festival, Village Events, Village News

Call for Volunteers: Join the Team Behind the Village’s First-Ever Family Music Festival, 6th–8th June

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The countdown is on to the village’s inaugural Music Festival, taking place from Friday 6th to Sunday 8th June—and organisers are calling on the community to lend a hand and help make it an unforgettable weekend of fun, music, and community spirit.

The three-day event, designed to promote awareness and use of the local Community Centre and village halls, promises live music, children’s entertainment, and good old-fashioned summer vibes. But behind the scenes, a team of enthusiastic volunteers is still needed to help the show go on.

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