The second half of the year brought pride, progress, and plenty of village spirit to Overton. From blue-light upgrades to festive tractors, the months from July to December showed a community that keeps moving, keeps caring, and knows how to celebrate itself.
July
July began with a milestone for local safety. Overton Fire Station took delivery of a brand new Light Rescue Pump, the first completely new fire engine for the village since the late 1970s. For decades, the station relied on second-hand appliances passed on from elsewhere. After 15 years of service, the outgoing vehicle was retired, making way for a modern, state-of-the-art engine built for today’s demands.
The village then turned up the colour for the annual Wheelbarrow Race. More than 100 competitors filled the streets in costumes that ranged from superheroes to Minions, with a strong showing from a squad of giant chickens. The wheelbarrows were as creative as the racers, and the event once again proved why it remains one of Overton’s best-loved traditions.
August
August brought big news from the festival world. CarFest announced it will move to Silverstone Circuit from 2026. The change promises more space, better facilities, and new experiences, while keeping the mix of cars, music, food, and family fun that fans love.
This year’s event marked a fond farewell to Laverstoke Park. Attendance was strong, and the site received a fitting send-off after years of hosting one of the UK’s most popular family festivals.
September
September delivered recognition on a county-wide stage. Overton was named one of Hampshire’s most desirable places to live by readers of lifestyle magazine Muddy Stilettos. The village placed sixth in the annual Top 10 list, with voters praising schools, food, culture, transport links, and the strength of community life.
There was more reason to raise a glass as The Old House at Home was included in the 2026 Good Beer Guide for the sixth year running. The White Hart also earned its place in the guide, underlining Overton’s strong pub scene.
Local business continued to innovate too. The Village Refillery launched a free local delivery service covering Overton, Laverstoke, and Freefolk. With a low minimum spend and no delivery charge, the move made sustainable shopping easier while backing a home-grown business.
October
October saw Overton Radio welcome Shane King Roofing as the first new supporter for the year ahead, marking another step forward for the station’s local partnerships. The Overton Bathroom Centre would later join us as well.
Elsewhere, residents grabbed gloves and spades as Sustainable Overton hosted its first Big Bulb Plant at the Community Orchard. The event mixed practical action with community spirit, helping the village plan for a brighter spring.
November
November opened on a reflective note. The village came together for Remembrance Sunday, pausing to honour those who gave their lives in conflict. The service was well attended and deeply felt.
There was good news for evening visitors as Emporia announced longer opening hours. The shop and café now stays open until 7.30pm from Tuesday to Saturday, giving locals more time to eat, meet, and unwind.
Festive cheer arrived early with late-night shopping and the Christmas Market. Crowds filled the village, and the celebrations ended in spectacular style with a tractor parade. Forty-three decorated tractors rolled through Overton, cheered on by more than 500 people. The event raised £3,500 for the Farmers Community Network, with organisers confirming it will return next year on an even bigger scale.
December
December began with fitness and fresh air as The Street Gym opened its doors to the public with an Open Day, welcoming new faces to the growing community space.
The year closed with a note of urgency as campaigners fighting to save Popham Airfield warned that time was running out to respond to a new public consultation. Plans to turn the site into a “garden village” sparked fresh debate, ensuring the future of the area remained firmly in the spotlight as the year ended.
