WHITCHURCH became the latest market town in Hampshire to undergo a healthcheck with a special information day at Whitchurch Silk Mill.

Residents were given the chance to find out more about the Countryside Agency initiative, which looks at the environmental, economic, social and transport issues affecting Whitchurch and identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to these areas.

It also aims to revitalise the town, meet the needs of people in the area and provide access to a wide range of retail, leisure, professional and public services.

The day was organised by Susan Flawith, Hampshire County Council's project officer for Whitchurch.

She said: Once the healthcheck is completed, we will be able to create an action plan for Whitchurch, setting out projects that will assist in revitalising the town."

As the healthcheck involves all members of the community, a number of activities were on offer to keep everyone entertained.

Whitchurch mayor and mayoress, Cllr Barry and Sandra Jackman and North West Hants MP Sir George Young showed their support and joined forces to start the duck race.

Sir George said: "This was an exciting attempt to gauge the strengths and weaknesses of Whitchurch and to engage the community in making it an even better place in which to live and work.

"I was interested to see the support for converting the disused railway into a footpath or cycleway and for more affordable housing."