Village News

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.

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.

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 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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