A stalwart of Bishop's Waltham has had a new development named after him.

The Mayor of Winchester, Jane Rutter, joined locals in Bishop’s Waltham to mark the opening of Ortus Homes’ new development, Walmsley Place on Saxby Road.

Bill Walmsley, who died aged 81 in 2011, was an active member of the Bishop’s Waltham Society and the founder of Bishop’s Waltham in Bloom. He was chief instigator and organiser of the Jubilee Clock installed in 2002, the burying of a time capsule in St Peter’s Churchyard and the author of books on the town.

Claire Parry and Sarah Mills, daughters of Mr Walmsley, were able to take a grand tour of the new apartments and communal areas, as well as meet some of the people that have come to call Walmsley Place home.

Claire Parry said:“Dad loved Bishop’s Waltham and he was a member of Bishops Waltham Society to protect and enhance the town. We’re really honoured that Ortus Homes have created such a fitting tribute to him.”

Mayor Jane Rutter said: “It was a pleasure to mark the opening of such a wonderful development like Walmsley Place. It was lovely to be able to meet the happy homeowners at the development, and see the strong community that’s already growing there.”