THE Rooksdown column is now back after a short break!

Don't forget, if you have any news items that you think could be included in this column, please give me a call on the number above (between 7pm and 9pm preferably). Another useful source of information is the Rooksdown website - www.rooksdown.org.uk - so please take time to visit it.

A339 BRIDGE opens: You may not have realised that the new green footbridge is now open, which provides easier access to the shops and post office at Winklebury. There are no plans to close the other bridge which provides access to Roman Road.

MICHAELMAS fair: St Michael's Church, the church for our area, is holding a Michaelmas fair this coming Saturday, from 10am to 3pm, in Church Cottage, in the town centre.

The fair, which will be opened by the Bishop of Basingstoke, The Right Reverend Trevor Willmott, will include handbell ringers, a selection of stalls, face painting, light lunches and more.

At 2pm, there will be a fancy dress contest for children in two age categories - up to five years and six to 10 years - on the theme of nursery rhyme characters.

There will also be an evening jazz concert with the Innovations Jazz Orchestra at 7.30pm in the church. Tickets, priced £7, are available from the church office.

There is a Patronal Festival throughout the day on Sunday.

For more information on all of those church events, call 01256 420223.