From the Leader

Winter has passed and with the spring comes a fresh start and new challenges.

With the effects of the economic downturn still being keenly felt, we are having to make tough choices to weather the storm. This edition explains how we are balancing the budget to make best use of Council Tax contributions and reduce the impact of cuts.

We also also have an article about Popular children’s author Ali Sparkes, who has lived in Hampshire her whole life. She talks about how this beautiful county has inspired her work and why she loves meeting fans during visits to schools and libraries.

Read the moving account of a local couple’s experience of adoption and find out how you might be able to offer a loving and stable home to a child.

Hampshire Now can help you discover a world of excitement and adventure with an article on how outdoor education centres are providing learning and fun in Hampshire and beyond; perfect for adventurers of all ages.

You will also find the regular features, such as the Walk which is at Sherfield-on-Loddon near Basingstoke, and the Ask the expert article about what happens to our recycling.

Councillor Ken Thornber, CBE
Leader of Hampshire County Council