THE Martinstown Guides would like to thank all who came to their Christmas Bazaar, which naturally turned out to be a most enjoyable social occasion.

A shame that it did not get the local support that the hard working Leaders well deserve for the dedicated service they have given over the years.

A COFFEE morning in aid of Shelter will be held at the Rectory on Saturday, December 12, 10am-noon.

This is an opportunity to support those who are homeless and in dire need of housing.

THE Christmas season is fast approaching with the Christingle Service at St Martin’s Church, on Sunday, December 13, 6pm.

The collection will be held in aid of the Children’s Society.

Then on Sunday, December 20 Carols by Candlelight, at 6pm, and the Crib celebrations will be on Christmas Eve also at 6pm.

NOT to be outdone, the Brewers Arms will be hosting a Beer and Carols evening on Saturday, December 19, at 8pm.

Hopefully all will journey home safely for tradition has it that whoever falls into the Winterbourne stream is automatically elected as the Mayor of Martinstown.

If my memory services me correctly we did have a Mayoress at one time.

IT is indeed excellent news that Dorchester and surrounding villages will once again be served by the excellent Scout Post service, which raises money not only for the local Scout fund but also other local charities.

Deliveries will be to postal areas DT1 and parts of DT2 only and the suggested rate is 10p a card minimum or 50p for four cards.

The service will be operational from Saturday, December 5 until Saturday, December 19 and collection boxes will be located in the Martinstown Village Shop during shop hours, thanks to Alan.

The other Valley collection point is at Church View Guest House, in the porch from 8am-8pm.

Last collection at both points will be Saturday, December 19, 1pm.

ALL THAT IS LEFT TO SAY IS TO WISH ALL A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND ALL GOOD THINGS FOR 2010.