Winchester News Online
Hinton Ampner blends Halloween with heritage in a seasonal display
People are celebrating the season at a Hampshire country estate this autumn.
Hinton Ampner, a National Trust property near Winchester, has introduced more than 500 pumpkins to its gardens, each displayed in different arrangements throughout the site.
It is the fourth year the pumpkins have been on display, and they are part of a National Trust initiative designed to draw in more people to the historic site.
Zoe Squires, an officer for the National Trust, said: “The idea is to give visitors a beautiful backdrop for their photography, with their families and friends, and to give everything a bright autumn vibe.
“Hinton Ampner are tapping into a trend from the National Trust, using displays which are beautiful photo backdrops to encourage people to have that talking point and that sense of connection with nature, which will then hopefully trigger more curiosity and evolve into a love of the wider estate and gardens.”
Alongside the familiar orange giants, the displays also feature white “ghost” pumpkins, which have been introduced for the first time this year.
The pumpkins are sourced locally, and many will be composted at the end of the month to support the property’s sustainability goals.
The Georgian property is known for its architecture and picturesque grounds, and the annual display aims to blend the traditional character with a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Trust said the gardens, house, and wider estate offer a fitting backdrop for a day out that appeals to visitors of all ages.
Hinton Ampner has been part of the National Trust since 1957 and remains one of Hampshire’s most visited country estates.
Volunteers and staff have played a key role in preparing the displays and welcoming guests.
The pumpkin display runs until the end of the month.
A man threw a chair and threatened bystanders in the centre of Gosport on Friday.
Police say the man, who was behaving aggressively, threw the chair on the ground and shouted threats at nearby shoppers before running away. No one was injured.
It happened just before noon, outside a Greggs Bakery on the High Street.
Hampshire Police say the man was white, bald and in his late 40s. He was wearing a baseball cap and a grey hoodie.
Officers are asking anyone who saw the incident to contact them.
Twelve people were arrested after 350 anti-migrant protestors clashed with police overnight in Gosport following reports of a small boat landing in the area.
A small number of officers needed medical treatment following the protests near Walpole car park.
Assistant Chief Constable Simon Dodds said: “Violence and criminal damage have no part in peaceful protest, our position on this has been clear that we will investigate thoroughly and take robust action against anyone responsible.
“Our officers did not deserve to be assaulted as they worked incredibly diligently on Sunday to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.”
Police had banned face coverings and had issued a dispersal order ahead of the protests across Gosport.
Those arrested were held on suspicion of assaulting officers or being drunk and disorderly.
The protest marks an increase in tensions within the UK after protests at Portsmouth, Taunton, Basingstoke and Glasgow in recent months.
Gosport Reform UK councilor Paul Carter told GB News: “If you think about this last night, no one really knew what was happening… I think a lot of people are really worried.”
People in Romsey are being warned that the town’s recycling centre will be closing for a month for repairs.
The closure of Casbrook recycling centre will take place from 12 October to 12 November.
The council says that repairs are essential to keep the site safe, after heavy vehicles damaged the tarmac beneath waste containers.
Councillor Kirsty North, Hampshire County Council’s deputy leader, said: “We are investing in essential improvements to preserve the surface of Casbrook HWRC (Bunny Lane) and ensure the facility continues to serve residents safely and effectively for many years to come.
“I thank residents for their patience during these works and confirm that capacity is available at nearby HWRCs to ensure residents that usually use Bunny Lane, can still dispose of their waste during this time.”
Locals have been advised to use alternative centres in Winchester and Eastleigh while the repairs take place.
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