History

On the death of her husband, Mrs Ritchie gave £700 to build a village hall in his memory. Dr Edward Duguid Ritchie had been a general practitioner in the village from 1897 to 1912, living at Redthorn, Park Road. He had been choirmaster at St Boniface’s Church, a lay reader and Secretary of the Winchester Diocesan Choral Union. The hall was opened by Mrs Ritchie on 16 April 1914, the dedication being given by the Bishop of Winchester. The building is of brick and tile, and had seating for 250 people. A community centre was added later.

About 1935, the late Ethel Moore started her dancing school holding lessons in Ritchie Hall. The most famous pupil was Philip Catfield, who was given a scholarship to Sadler’s Wells ballet – now the Royal ballet. Margaret Woolridge was also a famous pupil who gained a place in the International ballet company.

Paranormal

There is plenty of history attached to this building… Let’s see what or who we can communicate with. Are you ready Juniors?