NEW Alresford Town Trust has issued its six-monthly report on its recent activities.

To mark the 800th anniversary of the Broad Street markets in 2014 the trust will present a 1920s clock which it hopes to fix to the former post office in West Street which has recently been leased by Charters estate agents.

Malcolm Miles has been co-opted as a trustee to replace Peter Middleton who retired in February.

The ‘bottle and flagon’ display at the library in Broad Street runs until the end of August when it will be replaced by one on local shops and trade. Trustee Natalie Carpenter has been buying Alresford artefacts for the trust’s collection.

The Eel House continues to be popular with 699 visitors so far this year on the open days. Some £530 has been raised for the restoration fund.

The Thursday market is growing in popularity with some 20 stall holders. Expected income this year is around £8,000, some £1,700 higher than in 2012. Two Sunday markets have been arranged for October 27 and December 15.

Negotiations are ongoing with Perins School over access from The Avenue, owned by the trust, to allow building of the new Maths Block.

Less good news on the minibus with problems reported on the tail lift and brake pads and a damaged sun roof when the driver did not fully open the garage door.

Trustee Pam Stevens has raised £5,000 in grants for the vehicle from the town and city councils, Old Alresford Parish Council, Andrew Smith and Son auctioneers, Richard Steel funeral directors, Alresford Music Festival and Mr Ryan, of Broad Street.