A ‘TREASURED landmark’ is well on the way to being restored after being ravaged by a fire last year.

The thatched bus shelter in Hurstbourne Priors has been described by some as the 'pride of the village', but a lorry fire on the B3400 saw it engulfed in flames and burnt down in May of last year.

Now, the team from Andover Down Sawmill is working to restore the landmark using English Elm reclaimed from the wreckage of last year's fire.

The damaged wood has been cleaned, treated and reused as far as possible, and a thatcher is due to finish the job before the end of May.

Parish council chair, Clare Read told the Advertiser: “The parish council are really grateful to Mark of Andover Down Sawmill for his time and patience in recreating such a treasured village landmark.

“It has really lifted spirits during such a difficult time for our community which saw the cancellation of our annual May Fair and restrictions on celebrations for VE Day.

"We hope that passing drivers will also be cheered by its reappearance.”

A formal ceremony is planned for when the restored shelter is complete.