Can you move faster than a Pelican can? (From Dorset Echo)

Can you move faster than a Pelican can?

4:56pm Wednesday 7th December 2011 in Community

Walking along the Preston Road recently I saw the Pelican Crossing opposite the Village Hall in operation a number of times. It seems to me that it holds up the traffic for an unnecessary amount of time.

I watched a young couple waiting, with a toddler. The lights changed to red for the traffic and the threesome had time to cross the road at slow pace – toddlers aren’t the quickest walkers in the world - and disappear into the caravan park entrance before the lights changed back to green for the cars.

I thought the point of a Pelican crossing was that it sensed when pedestrians were clear and changed the lights promptly. Is some adjustment needed to make it work more efficiently?

Another reminder about the popular ‘Christmas on the Green’ at Chalbury Corner on Monday 19 December, now one of the traditions of the Preston festive season.

This is supported by the local businesses of Chalbury Wine Stores, Get Cycling, Head Style, Goadsby and the Spar Shop and promises to be better than ever.

I have just been told that the present wrapping service which was such a hit last year will again take place all day in Goadsbys, so this is your chance to get that special present beautifully wrapped. Entry forms for the colouring competition can be returned right up to the day itself, and at 5pm the Wicked Witch from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Pavilion, Evil Queen Camilla, aka Sarah Aveling, will appear to award the prizes.

At 5.30pm Santa will arrive – listen out for those reindeers - then at 6.30pm the Preston Pantomime Group will lead the carols under the brightly lit tree, which has been donated by Trinity Street Christmas Trees.

A BBQ and mulled wine will be available to keep you warm while singing.

Money raised will be shared between the Preston Village Hall, in memory of Roxanne Moss who sadly passed away recently, the Claire Clements Trust and the Weldmar Trust, all local causes dear to Preston hearts. So wrap up warmly and join the throng to celebrate Christmas on the Green.

Sutton Poyntz will also resound to the sound of Christmas carols on Monday 19 December starting at 6.30pm.

The singing will take place around the Christmas tree outside the Mission Hall accompanied by the Salvation Army Band. All are welcome afterwards for refreshments mulled wine and mince pies inside the Hall itself.

This is another lovely setting and the event always attracts a large crowd.