New interactive displays to be introduced at King John's House in Romsey will help bring the past to life.

At the press of a button Florence Nightingale will speak to you across the years. And after her short speech, originally recorded on wax cylinder when she was an old lady, you can hear the bugle that sounded the Charge of the Light Brigade in 1855, as played by the original bugler (but recorded at a later date). Another new feature is a Victorian gunshop (recreated above its original location in the present Tourist Information Office) where the elderly shopkeeper, Mr Moody, will be waiting behind the counter.

"The Trust has gone to great pains to replicate him and his voice and will be interested to know from local residents who still remember going to his shop whether they have achieved this!" said King John's manager, Anne James.

King John's House, Romsey's oldest building after the Abbey, has also got some new windows which are more in keeping with its age. A replica medieval window, downstairs, and a new oak oriel window, upstairs have replaced modern windows.

Besides these permanent features, the Trust is arranging an exciting programme of summer events.

At the beginning of May, there are plans to present memories about the 60th anniversary of the ending of the Second World War. It is hoped to feature both VE and VJ days. Anyone willing to loan wartime artefacts for the summer, or share memories of wartime Romsey, should contact the General Manager, Anne James, either by calling in to the office or by phoning on 01794-512200.

In July the complex will be participating in the Romsey Arts Festival. The main attraction for this period will be a display of historic costumes from legendary TV and film productions, such as Pride and Prejudice, The Pirates of Penzance and The Phantom of the Opera. During the festival, there will also be drama performances in the House and Garden.

Other planned events will feature a woodcarvers exhibition, a Viking re-enactment group, displays by local artists and craftsmen, and King John's own annual Open Art Exhibition. The Moody Museum, Miss Moody's Tudor Tea Room and King John's Garden are open all the year round - King John's House itself will re-open for the summer season on Good Friday, March 25th.