THE Hockley Viaduct has been formally christened at a special ceremony in which 40 guests gathered to mark the occasion.

Hampshire artist, Nicola Henshaw, who was commissioned by Winchester City Council to create a series of panels for the refurbished site last year, led the walk from the viaduct to Abbey House, the home of the Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Eileen Berry.

There, Friends of Hockley Viaduct, children from Winchester schools and members of the Winchester Area Tourist Guides Association enjoyed some strawberry tea to toast the day.

Ms Henshaw explained how the project had taken shape and the themes that had inspired her to create the three panels – based on the railway, the city, flora, fauna and cycling – as well as the three-dimensional sculpture.

Cllr Berry said: “As an artist myself I really appreciate the quality and beauty of these sculptures. I am happy to see how many people Nicola has involved in her work, and to know that many more will be able to share the viaduct’s story over the years to come as a result of these sculptures." 

A special thanks was given to the individuals who helped form the project, as well as schoolchildren from All Saints in Highcliffe and All Saints in Compton.

“I would like to congratulate everyone who has played a part in the project,” Cllr Berry added.