A COMMUNITY art project has been launched to discover the history of a Hampshire street.

The project, named ‘We found it in Chesil’, has been introduced to help research the past of Chesil Street in Winchester.

The project will engage with local residents, businesses and groups to discover what it is like to be part of this community.

French artist Laurence Dube-Rushby has been commissioned by Winchester City Council to coordinate the project.

She will use contributed stories and photographs to design construction hoardings for an extra-care housing development on the street.

Mr Dube-Rushby said: “It is amazing to discover a wealth of historical facts related to the street as well as personal stories.

“Chesil Street seems like a whole separate part of Winchester with a real identity attached to it. It is definitely worth a visit and a chat with all the wonderful business-owners and residents there.

The project has sparked the interest of several local groups and businesses. These include the junior section of Chesil Youth Theatre, based in Chesil Street.

Working with Laurence and director Corinne James, they have been developing a diverse range of characters from Chesil history.

Chairman of Chesil Theatre Martin Humphrey said: “Chesil Street is certainly a vibrant community and Chesil Theatre this year celebrates 50 years of performing in the listed building of St Peter's Church.

“Our neighbours certainly lend a hand in our activities, recently including props provided by The Black Boy and Richard Steel, fundraising from Chesil Rectory restaurant and always great support from residents.

“We are very proud of our Chesil Youth Theatre and delighted they can contribute to this worthwhile community arts project."

Laurence will also run a workshop for All Saints School on 26 May and a Queen’s birthday celebration with the St John’s charity on 2 June.

To find out more about the project visit We Found It In Chesil.