Steve Brine was guest of honour at The Swan Hotel in Alresford on Friday 25th September as he attended the new membership launch for the New Alresford Town Trust.
The Alresford MP, who first visited the Trust back in 2009, was among over 25 guests and trustees who heard from Chair, Robin Atkins, about the history of the organisation, which was officially formed in 1890 but which has a history which stretches way back to 1295 when Alresford had two MPs.
After the introduction, trustee Pam Stevens presented Steve Brine with a framed membership form and certificate as the Trust's 'No. 1 member'.
Mr Brine then said it was much more than luck that NATT had survived for so long and that the Trustees and community had worked hard to keep the Trust going and carrying out its many activities.
He said: "This is a great example of a community-led project which allows the Trust and the Town Council to concentrate on their own responsibilities and projects. I would hope residents in the town will become members and get involved."
Trustee Roy Gentry explained that the Trust, which nearly went bust in the 1960s, was in 'very good health', and includes the Eel House, Alresford Museum and the re-introduction of a fund for deserving hardship cases.
Pictured; Steve joins Robin Atkins and Pam Stevens with mascot Ollie the Owl
More information ...
You can find out more about membership here or by calling Robin Atkins on 01962 733778.