MEMBERS of Liphook in Bloom, together with councillors from East Hampshire District Council (EHDC), Hampshire County Council and Bramshott and Liphook Parish Council, celebrated the completion of their rainwater harvesting project.

The new facility was supported through EHDC and county council grants while the parish council granted permission for the tank to be located at the back of the Millennium Centre in Ontario Way.

For some years Simon Coyte had allowed the Bloomers to keep a tank on a trailer at the back of his premises off London Road to collect rainwater from the roof of his barn. However, the team felt the time had come to make a more permanent structure in the centre of the village.

Last November, a group of Liphook in Bloom volunteers built a platform from railway sleepers topped with marine ply to provide a flat surface for the tank.

Andy House from Liphook’s body repair garage provided and drove a lorry to transfer the tank to its new location. Once in situ a hose was fitted to connect the existing rainwater downpipe with the tank and finally, a sturdy fence was erected around the tank by a local contractor to provide security and screening.

The aim of Liphook in Bloom is to make the village attractive for all to enjoy whether a local resident, someone who works in the parish, is visiting or passing through. Flowerbeds throughout Liphook are planted up for spring, summer and autumn, as well as the many tier planters and hanging baskets which decorate the village.

There is a rota of volunteers who help watering these three or four times throughout the growing season, but the Bloomers need more help. Any volunteer who owns a car with a tow bar to attach the bowser to would be welcome. It takes a teams of two – one to drive and one to water.

Other volunteers are also welcome to help with weeding and planting and those interested in sponsorship should contact Liphook In Bloom by visiting liphookinbloom.co.uk.