Don’t believe the signs: Lindford is open for business and we desperately need your trade.

That’s the message from a trader as ongoing roadworks and confusion over diversions have left a much-loved family firm on the brink.

Oliver Kemp has pleaded with SSEN and Hampshire County Council for help as his Altis Industries firm struggles with the impact of a cable upgrade on Liphook Road.

He reckons the loss of revenue to his hardware shop and tool hire firm will amount to £215,000 by May, with similar stories throughout the village.

While compensation is available for firms affected by ongoing water and gas work, there is no electrical equivalent with calls being made to the government to introduce a pot to help out traders like himself.

But he also believes people have avoided coming to Lindford because of diversion signs in Liphook and Bordon, even though it’s possible to drive from one side of the village to another via Mill Lane and the B3002.

Mr Kemp said: “We just want to raise a little bit of awareness that we’re here but we’re all struggling.

“There’s been a lack of communication and a lack of signage about businesses being open.

“I’ve had people say me saying are we open because they’ve seen the ‘road closed’ signs in Liphook. We need the trade because otherwise they’ll go elsewhere.

“Yes, we’re still open, and yes we could do with support, both financially and through better signs. We’re a family run business, please support us.”