Petersfield Community Radio

Welcome to ‘Sky Watch’, your personal 'Petersphere' stargazing bulletin for August! Once in a while we get a special astronomical event, and this month the Petersphere is due for a deep partial eclipse of the Sun. On August 12th, over 90% of the Sun will be obscured by the Moon at maximum, which will significantly lower sunlight and produce a noticeable effect! For more, listen to this month's Sky Watch. Written by Petersphere resident, astronomical expert and amateur astronomer Geoff Burt, and voiced by Claire Vennis, every month Shine Radio presents a Sky Watch of our unique dark skies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month thanks for the sterling work of EHDC and Norse to improve the look of our town centre. The planting and removal the A Frames have made a big difference.Litter is still a major issue, but measures are in place on how to improve the situation.Beth Svarovska, from the group speaks to Julie Butler See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s more than just turning up for a gym session or a class these days. You+ is all about experiencing a programme to help enhance your experience everytime to put on your trainers. The six pillars are there to ensure it provides long term health benefits to lead to a healthier life. We hear from Callum and LucindaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EHDC has launched a new toolkit, asset based community development, helping communities tackle local priorities. Residents, supported by the council, will lead projects inspired by successful pilot schemes already making a difference. Cllr Adeel Shah from East Hants District Council tells us moreSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's our last bulletin before our Summer break with local news and information from Petersfield's Shine Radio. It’s time to turn Petersfield blue again as the March for Men approaches A local musician walks one hundred miles for Beethoven There are cricket and tennis matches for local teams this weekend and how your news could become Shine Radio news as our news team takes a break Mike, Mia Jane, Kerina and Jack bring you all those stories plus today's local weather and travel news. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 8:06am on 31 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Local Musician Angela Zanders is raising money for next year's festival marking the 200th anniversary of Beethoven's death, by walking 100 miles; so far £1700 raised. Between January and November next year, in St Peter's Church, there will be 10 recitals, concerts and talks about Beethoven; author and journalist, John Suchet will be speaking, and the final concert in November is the South Downs Camerata Orchestra conducted by Jonathan Willcocks. Speaking to Mike Waddington, Angela talks about the festival and what it celebrates. There will be activities for schools too and one of the recitals is part of the Petersfield Musical Festival in March. Angela is also appealing for volunteers to lend a hand. Angela Zanders – Professional pianist, lecturer and pianist Crowdfunding For Good From JustGiving See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just up the A3 lies the Hindhead Tunnel — a route many of us now drive through without a second thought. But who remembers the days before it opened? The long queues at the Hindhead traffic lights, buildings blackened by exhaust fumes, and the old A3 winding its way around the Devil’s Punch Bowl. Fifteen years on, the tunnel continues to provide safer, smoother and faster journeys for tens of thousands of motorists every day. Jo Gray meets Dominic Holyoak from National Highways, one of the dedicated team working behind the scenes around the clock to keep the tunnel running safely.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. 15 years after the Hindhead Tunnel opened, how the Devil's Punch Bowl came back to life There’s an opportunity for young people to try bell ringing. A new council toolkit aims to put communities drive forward local projects …and we have a roundup of local job opportunities. Mike Waddington's at the news desk, Kirsty Meredith has your weather update, Jack's at the travel map and Harry Marden looks at those hot local jobs. Tomorrow we present our last local bulletin before our news team's summer holiday. It's just a short break for everyone - they don't really all go off to the Mediterranean together. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 7:29am on 30 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

March for Men with Kev is more than just a walk. It’s about a local man Kevan Birkett who campaigned right to end to raise awareness of prostrate cancer. In its fourth consecutive year, it’s a day of community, remembrance and life saving action. Hundreds will be walking on the 13th September so it’s now time to register and help walk and continue to raise the awareness of making sure men get testedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over 50,000 travelled from over 100 countries to attend, it’s growing every year. Many come from around the world to hear His Holiness speak which the central attraction of the convention. The three day major event has a team of over 5000 volunteers from the Ahmadiyya community. Shine Radio attended last Friday, the first day and spoke to the National Secretary for External Affairs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. Petersfield's Citizens Advice explains the new rules for Buy Now, Pay Later borrowing The indispensable Steve Field retires from Petersfield Town Council A new manager is in charge at the Rams And we see what’s needed at the foodbank this week Kirsty is shuffling her papers behind the newsdesk, Edward has your hot weather forecast and Jack is at the travel map. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:00am on 29 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the school holidays and something a little bit different for anyone interested in ringing the bells at St Mary’s church in Liss. Liss Bell Ringers are holding an introductory session for under 18’s on the 8th August. It’s not just about ringing, but a great way to make friends as well. Shine Radio spoke to Rachael and Katie to find out more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. East Hants District Council makes two calls for clarity Another fundraiser for the Rosemary Foundation is set to raise the roof The South Downs Ukulele Band raise smiles at a local dementia group and with the summer holidays underway, we've got plenty of ideas to keep young people entertained in What's On Jo Gray is at the newsdesk, Arthur has your local weather, Stuart is covering the local events and Jack is in the travel centre. What a team! To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 8:01am on 28 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No photos for this one... just Laura, Julie and a group of naked people at Petersfield Lido. Perfect radio in a way. We also hear why Petersfield's Open Air Swimming Pool has adopted the moniker of a Lido for its 2026 season. If listening to this programme encourages you to try a bit of naturism, the national organisation which celebrates it is at https://bn.org.uk/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Field ran a Council team responsible for many things from tourism and marketing to Committees and major capital projects. He retired on Friday 24 July after 10 years there. He tells Mike Waddington on his first day of retirement about how his farewell was a lot noisier than he expected! As well as all he did at the Council, Steve also is a Trustee of the Kings Arms, Vice Chairman of Petersfield Royal British Legion and he is well known for the Salvation Army role where he is Regimental Sergeant Major, cornet player and Band Leader. Steve also coordinates Agencies Working Together, which he does independently, even though the Council support the networking group of 40+ voluntary and statutory organisations in Petersfield, The future is undecided!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio: Muslims from around the world attend Jalsa Salana in East Worldham The Hindhead Tunnel turns 15 There was victory for Petersfield cricket and Steep lawn tennis teams this weekend …and have you won in this week's East Hampshrie Community Lottery? Gareth brings you those local stories, Mia has the sports results, Orien has his eyes on the travel news and Kirsty is at the weather wall with a big map. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 6:00am on 27 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a sports podcast special, we take a look at our local football teams as they prepare for their first league games of their new seasons. Petersfield the Rams men's side had a season full of drama but came away with the the Portsmouth Seniors cup. Kevin and Isaac venture to Love Lane this week to chat to new manager Zak Sharp about his pre season preparations and his hopes and ambitions as he takes the reins ahead of his first league game against Downton on Saturday. https://petersfieldtownfc.co.uk/ Liphook men's and women's sides had the most contrasting of seasons with the women winning promotion in style to division 1 and the men surviving a relegation battle. https://www.liphookunitedfootballclub.org/ Liss Athletic had an interesting season and by their own high standards, fell well short of where they would expect to be. They have selected some very tough pre-season friendlies ahead of their league campaign with no easy games. Will this prove to be the best preparation. We discuss all the teams prospects and lock and load our predictions for all the sides ahead of what looks to be an action-packed season for all. https://www.pitchero.com/clubs/lissathletic/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Royal British Legion support group for veterans living with dementia is making a real difference across Hampshire, including Petersfield. Run by veterans, for veterans, KitBags “Live On” offers friendship, shared memories and support. Group Facilitator Cliff Cropley told Shine Radio how it all startedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Holidaymakers are being urged to protect themselves by taking out the right travel insurance, reading the small print, and checking holiday deals carefully. Meanwhile, new Buy Now, Pay Later rules require affordability checks and clearer information, giving shoppers stronger protections, a move welcomed by Citizens Advice. Amanda Whiteland Smith from Citizens Advice tells us more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrating 10 years in business, independent record shop Vinyl Matters has moved from its longtime home on Bakery Lane to a larger premises just around the corner, next to the Waitrose car park in Petersfield town center. Owner Steve McGuinness talks to Jo Gray about the move, what the new shop offers, and why the bigger space is good news for music lovers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this month's edition, we speak to Harriet Waley-Cohen, a speaker, trainer, writer, coach and activist. She shares her inspiring story, taking us through the twists and turns of her life's journey. Amanda Whiteland-Smith from Citizens Advice talks about the summer holidays and highlights one of the most important things to have in place before you head off on your holiday. We also hear from the volunteers at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, who joined us at the Churcher's Community Fair. One volunteer, in particular, has an extraordinary story to share.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The South Downs Ukuleles were the special guest at this moth's Pam Robson Music Group. Clive Robson set the group up in memory of his wife Pam, who had dementia, We speak to bass player Barbara, Harry (who sings the Elvis numbers) and other band members. Audrey Morton from Dementia Friendly Petersfield explains why all this helps Nieve Carson joined Mike Waddington as a try-out for Shine Radio news reporting in the future. The South Downs Ukes meet every Thursday afternoon in Rogate - new members welcome.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kate Lord Brown, a former Petersfield resident's, latest novel, The Silver Thread is a tale of three cities and two women, spanning 100 years. An unforgettable love story set in London, Paris and Tokyo, exploring the meeting of Eastern and Western cultures. Noni Needs discovers when Kate Lord Brown first ate Japanese food, learnt to cook the cuisine during lockdown and how one character, Mira, deals with her experience of trying Japanese food for the first time. Kate Lord Brown said: "The Silver Thread is a light connection between people, places and time. People and places that you love are never really lost to you." The novel's dual timeline explores culture, fashion and art. The story unfolds as a buying trip to Japan in the late 1800's by two employees from Liberty's in London begins their journey of enduring love. The life long love story is uncovered by Mira, a curator from London who is tasked in 1975 with cataloging the treasures and discovering the secrets of an apartment in Paris left empty for decades. Available in hardback, the book is out in paperback on July 31. For more information go to Kate Lord Brown, or @katekordbrownSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. A hosepipe ban starts in Petersfield tonight. Stonepillow - there for anyone that needs them. Youngest councillor wants to see everyone win together. We preview this weekend’s sport. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:00am on 24 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. Festival Hall development proceeds under a new chairman. Veterans supporting veterans: Dementia group changing lives in Petersfield. New Rural Strides for the butcher, baker and candlestick maker. we have a roundup of local job opportunities. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:00am on 23 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Local traders around one big table. Sarah Jane Beacher is the force behind Petersfield’s Sage and Salt Studio. Barrie Greening is known as The Sales Geek. He's based in Alton and helps small and medium sized businesses to develop their sales operations. Lou Bushell is a director at Local Treasures in Petersfield. Local Treasures matches homeowners with local people who can help with things like gardening, decoration and cleaning. We also hear from Rachel Harris about what’s happening in Petersfield’s First Friday business networking club. This edition of The Traders' Table is hosted by Sarah-Jane at Sage and Salt Studio, produced by Shine Radio in Petersfield and supported by First Friday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. Going on holiday, don’t forget these simple steps before you go. Supporting families every step of the way. Petersfield Lions say thank you with free ice cream. What’s needed at the foodbank this week. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:00am on 22 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shah Ali, at 23 is the youngest Petersfield Town Councillor, appointed in April 2026. He works part time in the Paradise restaurant, the family business, and studies at Portsmouth University. He talks to Mike Waddington about finding his feet and his belief in community, family, being safe and loneliness. He works for improvements and 'seeing everyone win together.'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. High Street speeding at night – is there a solution? Vinyl Matters marks 10 Years in Petersfield with an exciting move. The FitzRoy Abseil Challenge Ropes in Success. What's On This Week has events and activities for all ages. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:01am on 21 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rural Strides is a walking community around the Western Weald, the area around Petersfield A successful campaign 20 years or so ago had it included in the South Downs (and we learn why.) Rural Strides takes people walking round the Western Weald. Organiser Malinka van der Gaauw speaks to Mike Waddington about why people book to explore our area, and discover history, environment and often peace. Malinka will launch three new walks in August around the phrase 'the butcher, baker and candlestick maker.' Rural Strides newsletter can be subscribed to at Rural Strides - Walk the Western Weald with usSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South East Water says temporary restrictions on the use of hosepipes are being introduced across its supply areas in Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire from 00.01 on Saturday 25 July. Nicola Higgins from the company told Shine Radio's Stephen Martin what it means and why it's happening.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. A family of swans is in a sanctuary after being rescued from a Petersfield garden. Isaac has this weekend’s sporting results from across the Petersphere.. Half Moon Festival fundraiser sells out in support of the Rosemary Foundation We’ll share the latest winning numbers in the East Hants Community Lottery. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:00am on 20 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Local author Suzie Wilde and Tim O'Kelly of One Tree Books immerse you in a monthly indulgence of literature, storytelling and the world of books. We are joined this month by Louise Morrish, author and bookseller and Piper Knight, storyteller and encourager of young writers, The interview is with Kitty Kettle, author of speculative fiction that explores power dynamics, grief and the human cost of control and technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Something wicked is coming to the Petersphere... This weekend on Shine Radio, I've been chatting to Beccy Hope-Palmer, director of Macbeth at the Petersfield Shakespeare Festival, to find out what audiences can expect from this year's production. There's a Scottish take on Shakespeare's Scottish play, a spectacular open-air setting, and plenty more besides... I'll also be catching up with Lucy from the festival, who has one final invitation to see The Shakespeare Review, which takes its last bow tonight. Tune in across the weekend for the interviews - and if you're planning a visit to the festival, they might just whet your appetite without giving too much away!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Gilboy has quite a family story, from his childhood in the Peak District, where he always loved farming and animals, through the sale of his family's successful bakery business to the recent search for the perfect home, where they could restore an historic estate. The place they found, dating back to 1550, sits in a secluded valley threaded with barns, private lakes and ancient woodland on the periphery of the South Downs and, most importantly, enabled them to introduce regenerative farming. Mark Simpson, who's son has a part time job at the Bramshott farm, asked James to tell him about his current and future plans with their deer, cows, lambs, pigs and chickens, as well as improvements to the eco system, employing local talent and launching hospitality and simulated shoots at Downlands. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Saturday 25 July, on The Heath, between 11am and 4pm there’s a Lion Hunt for children. On completion at their gazebo near the play ground, children are awarded a voucher for an ice cream at the Plump Duck and entry into a prize draw. It’s a thank you from the Lions to Petersfield for the support and donation given, which helps them to support local causes. Organisers Jackie and Dave Read, talk ti Mike Waddington about the event and forthcoming Lion's activity. You can also join the Lions at their Gazebo on the day too. Petersfield Lions Club (CIO) – Registered Charity Number : 1174868See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stonepillow never turns anyone away. The homeless charity based in Chichester was founded in 1989 by the congregation of St Richard’s Catholic Church in Cawley Road, following the death of a young homeless man in Chichester. Shine Radio asked them at the Churcher’s Community Fair why they chose to come to Petersfield.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Naomi House and Jack’s Place provide expert hospice care, respite, therapies and bereavement support for more than 600 families across central southern England. They help babies, children and young adults live life to the fullest, whilst giving compassion, care and comfort. Shine Radio spoke to them at Churcher's Community FairSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Councillor Chris Paige is now the chair of the Festival Hall Development Committee - an extremely complex large project. Planning permission took two years and authority to proceed (by the planning authorities) has now been given. Costs are under the microscope. The use of the Festival Hall is now over 80% but more obligations are placed on the Council around its operation, Cllr Paige explains. The 90 year old building needs work and upgrading. The Committee met on 26th June and received two reports - one from Gennicon (feedback from local groups who use the Hall) and Elucidate with a cost analysis. The last committee meeting earmarked £95,000 for new detailed drawings on plans but approval will only follow after these reports are digested. The Committee papers and reports are online and meetings are open to the public at Schedule of Committee Meetings May 2026 – April 2027 – Petersfield Town CouncilSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. Home Start Butser celebrates success and its volunteers. It’s time to sort out your old glasses for a good cause. Petersfield Lions launch Prostate testing day. We preview this weekend’s sport. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:00am on 17 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two adult swans and five signets are in specialist protection after an emergency rescue in Petersfield. Jane raised the alarm after spotting the birds outside her home in Marden Way on the Herne Farm estate. After a scramble to find the right specialists, Danny Rogers came to Petersfield from a dedicated swan sanctuary in Surrey. They are speaking to Shine Radio's Stephen Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Petersfield Lions have once again opened bookings for free prostate testing, on Saturday 12 September between 10am and 3pm. They are supported by East Hants Council. The testing is carried out by the Prostate Cancer Support organisation, called PCASSSO, like the painter, They intentionally chose the day before the March for Men with Kev event so the weekend can be devoted to the cause of prostate health and testing in men between ages 40 and 80. It is a blood test and results are around two weeks later, on a traffic light indicator for further steps. Last year they made 350 tests and offer another 300 this time. Organiser Clive Midson, Treasurer of Petersfiield Lions, talks to Mike Waddington (who has booked a teat) about all that's involved. Clive thanked Peta Print for providing the posters dotted around the town. See PSA testing day, Saturday 12th September – Petersfield Lions Club (CIO) Or PCaSO | Prostate Cancer Support OrganisationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. You never know if you will need the Air Ambulance. Water Vole numbers are a Wildlife success. Big Dig ends with the Festival of Archaeology and Petersfield 500 years ago. we have a roundup of local job opportunities. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:00am on 16 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At Churcher's College on Wednesday 15 July, the Deputy Lieutenant of Hampshire, Petersfields''s Mayor and councillors joined the 100 or so people celebrating Home Start's last year. They supported 459 children in 332 families; 71 supported with home-visiting volunteers. Amongst many highlights was the contribution of 'Evie', who came from an unstable background and was a mum at 16. She spoke about her home-visiting volunteer's impact on her life, helping her to be 'the best mum I can be." The Audrey Award was given to Murray Whewell, the retiring (after over 15 years) Secretary/Treasurer and long service awards were presented by the Deputy Lieutenant. Mike Waddington reports from the meeting. We hear from the Home Start's Chair, Linda Bazant, Manager Nicola Winter, 'Evie', the Deputy Lieutenant, Cllr Adil Ali, volunteers and Petersfield''s Mayor Jamie Matthews. They launched an appeal to spread the word about them. See more at Home-Start Butser | the family support charitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's local news and information update from Petersfield's Shine Radio. The green light has been given to start on renowned crossroads; we hear reactions from our County Councillors. Petersfield in Bloom Competition Winners! Holiday cards for care homes to stir a memory. And let’s see what’s needed at the foodbank this week. To share your news stories email team@shineradio.uk or call, text or WhatsApp 01730 555 500. You make it shine. Published at 5:01am on 15 July, 2026See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headley Theatre Club was founded after the Festival Of Britain in 1952 and their latest production has been written by John Owen Smith to mark the 150th anniversary of local author Flora Thompson’s birth. The author of Lark Rise To Candleford lived and worked in Liphook and Grayshott, from the end of the 19th century. Mark Simpson caught up with John – also known as Jo - as they were rehearsing at Headley Village Hall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This years’ Big Dig ends this weekend,18 and 19 July, which is also the national Festival of Archaeology to encourage more people to dig into the past. People are invited to attend at High Meadow between 11am and 4pm on Saturday and Sunday to see Liss Archeology at work. Anne Brooks from Liss Archeology and Petersfield Area Historical Society, speaks to Mike Waddington about their latest finds at High Meadow and in a garden on Borough Hill. Christabel Thomas explains why she volunteers on the Information Stand here and travels from the New Forest to do so. More at Petersfield Big Dig 2026 | Explore History with Liss ArchaeologySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.