BISHOP'S Waltham Rotary Club Santa tour raised almost £6,500.
A spokesman said: “Santa and his trusty musical steam engine Roger were out and about in December signalling the run up to Christmas and this year we have been astounded by your generosity, particularly in such difficult times. 
“Once all collections were counted and totalled up you donated the amazing sum of nearly £6,500, which is up by nearly £700 on last year’s record-breaking total. With this money we will be able to continue to support local, national and international causes.”

LOOKING ahead, an eco fair is coming to Bishop's Waltham. 
The event will be held on Saturday, March 23. 
Sustainable businesses and organisations can apply for a table by emailing admin@bishopswaltham-pc.gov.uk. 

A NEW support group for autistic adults is starting in Swanmore.
Autism Hampshire's Swanmore Serendipity Community Group will be held twice a month on Thursdays from 11.15am - 1.15pm.
The free support group is for autistic adults to share interests and experiences. 
For more information, email serendipity@autismhampshire.org.uk or visit autismhampshire.org.uk/how-we-can-help/serendipity-social-groups/. 

A SWANMORE pub is holding regular art classes.
The Rising Sun is giving people the opportunity to recreate a famous piece of art on the first Thursday and last Saturday of the month.
On Thursday, the classes are held from 9.30am - 12pm and on Saturdays 10am - 12.30pm.
No experience is required, and the classes are taught by a qualified art teacher. 
It costs £28 per class, which includes A3 canvas, use of all art materials and a drink. 
For more details, contact liz@iheartartclass.co.uk or call 07811 978041. 

THE Rainbow Centre's annual Burns Night is fast approaching.
It will be held at Wickham Community Centre on Friday, January 26 at 7pm.
Tickets cost £35 per person and will include: a tot of whiskey, address to the haggis, two course meal plus coffee and shortbread, Woodsiders ceilidh and barn dance band with caller and ceilidh dancing.
For more details, contact 01329 289 500 or fundraising@rainbowcentre.org. 

SINGING for fun is held on every third Friday in the month in Bishop's Waltham.
Next date is January 19, 2pm to 3.30pm at The Stables in Free Street.
It costs £2 including refreshments.
Enjoy singing well-known songs. No talent required. All ages welcome.
Further information from Sue on 07710 810552.

A COURSE on employability and confidence building will be held in Bishop's Waltham.
The free course, run by Hampshire County Council, is for anyone looking to boost their levels of confidence and gain vital skills.
It will be held at Bishop’s Waltham Library on February 22 and 29. Also March 7 and 14. 
For more details, visit shop.hants.gov.uk/products/employability-skills-and-confidence-building-course-bishop-s-waltham-library-thursday-22nd-29th-february-7th-and-14th-march-2024.