Florence May Fullegar (1922–2013) came to Swanmore after the Second World War and was possibly the first woman in Swanmore to wear trousers – “slacks” – as she worked as an aircraft technician looking after aviation instruments and climbing up into an aircraft “she didn’t wish anyone to be looking up her skirt!” 

 

As a girl she had won a scholarship to Eastleigh Grammar School (now incorporated into Barton Peverill College, although its building is now used by Eastleigh College) before qualifying as an aircraft technician during the war. She went on to have three children – two boys and a girl.  

 

For many years May worked at the local apple farm while also being active in numerous village clubs and societies. Along with her husband, George, May was instrumental in the setting up of the “Friday Friends,” which raised money for local good causes. May was treasurer of Swanmore Village Hall, secretary of the Swanmore branch of the Royal British Legion (Women’s Section), and helped with Swanmore’s Saturday dance group and Senior Citizen’s Club. May was also active in organising the annual village carnival, bingo teas and was part of the team providing Christmas lunch for the senior citizens of the village; continuing to do the cooking when she was well into her 80s. 

 

May was also involved with Droxford Rural District Council, which was absorbed into the new Winchester City Council on 1st April 1974 (along with Winchester Municipal Borough and parts of Winchester Rural District) under the Local Government Act, 1972.  

 

May was a much-loved character, a stalwart of the village and a familiar sight to many as she walked her dog around the village. May died on 24th November 2013 and her many contributions to village life were recognised in a thanksgiving service held at St Barnabas Church on 5th December 2013.