BOASTING idyllic country beauty spots, picturesque historic locations and bursting with community spirit, it is not surprising that Wickham has been crowned Hampshire Village of the Year.

The prestigious title has been bestowed upon the community after judges were wowed by the community's zest for village life and dedication to creating a beautiful neighbourhood.

Wickham, near Fareham, beat 11 short-listed villages across the county to become the Calor Hampshire Village of the Year. It will now compete nationally against 38 other communities for the title of the nation's best village.

To secure the victory, the village had to prove there was a lot more to its community life than just manicured flowers and sparkling pavements.

The judges decided Wickham had proved to be outstanding in all six aspects of village life: community life, business, young people, older people, environment and information communication technology.

When the judges made their tour of the village they were also impressed by the tranquil Water Meadows, the hustle and bustle of the community centre and the busy Bridge Street and The Square.

Nicki Oliver of the village of the year team said: "Wickham has a great community spirit and we are privileged to live and work here.

"This competition has offered us a chance to shine the spotlight on the fantastic work, much of it carried out by volunteers, that goes on behind the scenes to support residents and businesses alike."

Angie Clear, chairman of Wickham Parish Council, added: "We are absolutely delighted. This award is thoroughly deserved by Wickham, congratulations to all involved.

"I always thought we had a good chance but to win the first time we entered is amazing. We have all worked very hard as a team and we are over the moon."

Steven Lugg, competition co-ordinator, said: "The Wickham volunteers have done such a good job for their community. "They are an outstanding community and did exceptionally well in the county competition. We are sure that this success can be replicated at national level."

Wickham will be presented with £300 and a cast iron plaque to be displayed in the village at an awards event in Winchester on October 13.

Meanwhile, the winner of the English village of the year is expected to be announced sometime later this year.