THE cubs had a very special evening when five new members were invested.

Congratulations go to Chloe Tripp, Lauren Barnes, Sam Haywood, Alan Kinch and Louis Diment.

The Beaver colony, not to be outdone are now proudly wearing their healthy eating' badges.

Both groups made gifts for Mothering Sunday; the Beavers made paper hyacinths and the cubs marzipan fruits in hand made boxes. One of the brand new cubs made his debut in the district handicraft competition held in Dorchester when the team of three boys valiantly competed against teams from cub packs from around the District.

Congratulations also goes to leader Philip Blyth on completing his training as an assistant cub scout leader and receiving his wood beads.

THE pre school children are very busy. With 30 on the roll it is hard work for the staff but also an indication that a new generation of \Crossways youngsters are staring on their education journey and will now start their school phase in Crossways after waiting so long for the building to be up and running.

The mild weather has allowed the children to play both inside and out which they always enjoy doing.

There have been visitors too, with the Rev Birdseye popping in on pancake day to share a story and a song which, as always, is very popular.

They are looking forward to her next visit as they know she always finds something special to interest them.

People are often surprised to know the amount of paperwork involved these days in a playgroup.

The staff are constantly keeping notes on each child's development in what is called their learning journey'.

Some key skills are developed during the time with the group but the importance of play and socialising with other children is also greatly emphasised. Parents will shortly have the opportunity of meeting with the staff for an open afternoon.

The children were also fascinated to meet two police community support officers - thanks to Vicki and Chris.

Once again they received a warm welcome and lots of curious questions from the inquisitive minds around them.

THE traffic lights in the village still seem erratic to say the least!

The recent windy weather didn't do much for the road layout either. Any residents who spot the lights out of action or problems with the protective fencing around the working area are asked to contact Scottish and Southern on 0845 770 80 90 and if you can give a postcode from the Warmwell Road then they will identify the site easily and get their emergency response traffic light team to sort it.

SCOUT and cub leaders joined with members of staff from the Playgroup and child minders to undertake an intensive first aid training course in the village hall.

It was a shame they had to missed a whole day of winter sunshine but it was well worth it to know what to do if an accident happens.

For some it was their first course but for others they were renewing qualifications previously taken three years ago so now they are up to date.

THE recent car boot sale held by the young people of the village raised the sum of £70 which was a very good effort considering the poor weather on the day which surely discouraged some car booters.

The parish council have been asked to look after the money in trust for future youth development projects.

Kris Hallett was delighted that young people were participating in the fundraising efforts.

FROME Valley First School is certainly not resting on its laurels after its outstanding' Ofsted report.

Headteacher Helen Boyce tells me that they are awaiting a supplementary report which looks at the church school status.

The diocese inspects to look at the ethos of the school and worship in assembly and religious education in general.

I have to declare an interest as a member of staff in an outstanding' RE Department in a secondary school. Have my fingers crossed for more good news from Frome Valley.

It is appropriate to mention the schools next sharing assembly' which sounds a really novel idea.

It takes place on Wednesday, March 12 at 1.30pm. These assemblies are led by the children and they present some of the work they have done during the term to their parents.

Certificates are presented to children who have achieved WOW cards this term.

This is a way of recognising and congratulating the youngsters for their work.

I would imagine the parents' hands will be worn out by the time they have finished clapping! I also wonder if news of the schools fundraising efforts for Barnardos might figure in the proceedings?

The children are currently looking after a hard-boiled egg for a week, checking on it three times a day to make sure it is ok, and raising money at the same time.

It brings home the idea of caring and nurture - and, pardon the pun egg-stremely important to think about those less fortunate.

Some Easter events to look forward to as well - Thursday, March 13 is an Easter fun evening from 4.30 - 6pm and although precise details of the activities are not known by me I have a tip-off that chocolate will feature prominently.

The second event is on Wednesday, March 19 at 6.00pm with a musical evening, with a competition and refreshments thrown in for good measure. Much more information on the school website.