• ON Remembrance Sunday many people gathered on the village green, for it was an occasion not only to recall those who had lost their lives in world wars and conflicts but also those who are still serving in the armed forces today.

The expertly played Last Post and the Reveille proved to be an emotional reminder of those who whom we owe our freedom.

The Evening Prayer in St Martin’s Church was attended by people of all denominations including those from the Dorford Baptist Church and Holy Trinity RC Church, in Dorchester.

With such a common ground of faith it saddened us all to think of world conflicts carried out purely on religious differences.

  • NO such differences when the village hall buzzed with the Advent Sunday activities, which started with a good English breakfast at 9.45am.

This was necessary in providing the energy to cope with such things as making Advent Rings, Dressing the Jesus Tree and other crafts based on St Nicholas and St Lucy.

This was followed by an informal celebration in St Martin’s Church at 11am where the children of Years 3 and 4 of Winterborne Valley First School presented their Ikons Project.

  • THIS year the popularity of the Martinstown Craft Fair has increased to such an extent that the organiser actually had to turn applicants away, as there was no more room.

As there were refreshments for elevenses, lunch and tea it turns into a special social occasion to meet up with old friends.

The minus side of the fair was the absence of Dennis Legg and his magnificent sales stall of nest boxes and bird tables. At the moment he is not in the best of health, so all good wishes to him for a return to normal.

  • THIS year the Benefice Christingle Service will be held in St Martin’s Church at 6pm on Sunday, December 12.

An event which really kickstarts the Christmas season run-up.

  • IT is good to see that residents in our care homes will enjoy carols and readings, when no doubt they will be joined by some of the locals.

On Friday, December 17, 4pm, at Steepleton Manor, and on Tuesday, December 21, 3pm at Park House, Martinstown.

A Crib Service will be held in St Martin’s Church on Friday, December 24, at 6pm.

  • THERE will be a Coffee Morning at the Rectory on Saturday, December 11, 10.30am-noon, in aid of Shelter.
  • SCOUT Post will take place from Saturday, December 4 to Saturday, December 18, the last collection will be at 1pm.

Suggested rate 15p per card or £1 for six cards. Local destination on yellow flyer, which is obtainable from the shop.

  • 1ST MARTINSTOWN Guides Christmas Fair, Sunday, December 5, 11am-4pm, in the village hall. Light lunches, noon-2pm. Raffles, craft, cakes, tombola, etc.