Three Tuns - News

Winchester Is Very Much Open For Business

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:57:12 +0000

DRIVERS in Winchester are set for months of traffic chaos with the closure of a vital city artery today.

A major £8m project to heighten Winchester's railway bridges will close St Cross Road until the end of March, before a similar scheme begins in Andover Road.

The work, part of a drive to increase the railway's freight capacity, is predicted to cause mayhem for commuters, businesses and residents.

Clive Mansell, who manages The Bell Inn and The Queen Inn, said the works could mean the closure of both pubs.

"Access will be a complete nightmare," said Mr Mansell, who also runs The Fulflood Arms.

"With St Cross Road closed, other potential routes into Winchester will be gridlocked.

"As owners we are uncertain that we will be able to survive the winter and could become two of the ever-growing number of pubs to close.

"It is such a pity when we have put so much into the communities we are part of."

Mark Peague, owner of The Frying Fish, said the outlook was just as bleak for his business.

"I think we'll be 50 per cent down on trade and, if it is, I'll be negotiating with the landlord for…

Winchester Catering For The Lucrative Children's Market - Courtesy Of Daily Echo

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:57:12 +0000

A CHARITY shop has joined the growing number of businesses in Winchester catering for the lucrative children's market.

Charity shop cashes in on new trend Two traditional toy shops have opened in the last year, while three sweets shops sprang up in the city within a month of each other.

And the trend has prompted Cancer Research UK in Parchment Street to create its own children's section.

"Cancer Research UK is excited about the growing trend of younger shoppers," said store manager Melody Pritchard said. "Not only does the savvy spender know that charity retail can offer designer and well-known brands at a fraction of the cost, but awareness of funky fashion for children has meant that our supporters and donators are also giving more books, toys, clothes and teen wear."

Chloe Roberts, owner of toy shop The Beanstalk in St Thomas Street, said: "We have seen a change in Winchester's offering for parents and children since we first opened the shop a year ago.

"Our business has recently expanded and we have opened up a second floor to meet the demand of customers and visitors.

"There is a strong desire for children's shops in Winchester, with more customers coming…

Spring Clean Your Business For The Recovery

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:57:12 +0000

With spring upon us, it's an ideal time for a spring clean - and not just at home. All businesses need to keep up to date with trends and technology in order to attract customers and increase sales; and will benefit from stepping back and taking a fresh look at business operations.

Business Link, the free business advice and support service, offers businesses of all sizes and sectors a free business review ‘health check' to spot areas for improvement and opportunities for development. Businesses can start with an online check www.businesslink.gov.uk/southeast/healthcheck which can be followed up with an in-depth, review meeting with a local Business Link Adviser.

Business Link's Deborah Wyatt said, ‘It is so important for businesses to identify areas for improvement and development. Even when you are very busy running a business day-to-day, you do need to look ahead, and this is where an impartial assessment by someone outside the business can be very helpful. Businesses should not try and struggle alone, Business Link is there to support you.'

Deborah explains how ‘spring cleaning' a business will help it maintain health, and retain a strong position to prepare your business for the…

Council Took Away A Board, Says Angry Trader - Courtesy Of Daily Echo

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:57:11 +0000

A TRADER is accusing council bosses of stealing her advertising board and then denying all knowledge.

The clash is the latest chapter of the A-boards row between Winchester retailers and Hampshire County Council.

The local authority wants to remove all signs on public land on health and safety grounds.

Retailers say they are vital to attract customers in the recession. They include Jane Gregory, who runs Jane's Salon in Parchment Street.

She placed a board in St George's Street nearby, which cost £240, and has now vanished.

"The council didn't even give me any warning that they were going to take it," she said.

She added that the council was unable to give a clear answer on whether their officers took the board.

The authority has confirmed that it has confiscated signs from three other traders, who face a £90 fee if they want them back.

She added: "I'm really cross about it. They should give the board back to me and I shouldn't have to pay for it."

The New Midas hair, beauty and tanning salon, also in Parchment Street, did receive a council letter saying their board had been taken.

Lyndsay Sheldon, who runs it, has not bought…

Safety Advice

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:57:11 +0000

WINCHESTER: PubWatch has produced a leaflet with tips on staying safe during the festive season.

Backed by Winchester BID, the 'Christmas Party Survival Guide' comes packed with handy details.

Along with tips on staying healthy, it included the phone numbers of taxi firms, support groups and emergency services.

Copies are available at several pubs in Winchester, and can also be ordered from Winchester City Centre Partnership on 01962 841000.

Earlier this month Winchester PubWatch came second in a national award scheme chosen by industry experts.