An orangery at a popular Test Valley venue has been improved after an £8,300 grant.

The money, from the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has been used to improve the orangery at Houghton Lodge, near Stockbridge, which welcomes more than 8,000 visitors every year.

However, during the summer months, the orangery was becoming "excessively hot".

The grant has allowed Houghton Lodge to install air conditioning and heating (Image: Test Valley Borough Council) The grant has allowed Houghton Lodge to improve natural ventilation and install air conditioning and heating, powered by its existing solar panels.

Daniel Busk, owner of Houghton Lodge, said: "In response to the challenges posed by climate change and extreme temperatures, our new air conditioning system is an essential addition.

"It ensures that both our staff and visitors can enjoy a comfortable environment in the tea rooms, regardless of the weather outside."