AT the moment happiness is not just about winning the Lottery or even smoking a certain brand of cigar, but the joy of being able to walk Fern up a beautifully cleared bridleway. Thanks to the West Dorset District Council for doing this and maybe to a certain district councillor who always has local interests very much at heart. No prizes for guessing who deserves my vote of confidence - well done David.

  • MARTINTOWN WI members decided that there was more to life than toiling away in their gardens or making jam. Yes, some of us still turn out that highly desirable product which finds a quick sale at any event. What better way to reward these activities than to enjoy a get together over a lunch within walking distance of most members, including Sheila and her buggy, while supporting local trade. So it was a case of livening up the Brewers Arms where an excellent choice of menu made self indulgence a highly viable proposition.

MEANWHILE, there are a great many gardeners working overtime to put on a good display for Martinstown Open Gardens weekend from 12pm-6pm, July 11 and 12. Entry by programme obtainable at the village shop, Brewers Arms and other local sources.

  • KAY DAWSON says a big 'Thank You' to all those who bought a quiz sheet in aid of Winterbourne Valley Toddler Group funds. It raised £100, which really is good news. The winner will be announced in September.

AUGUST will be an exciting month in the history of the village hall when hopefully the equipment will have been moved into the new annexe and the kitchen area will be enlarged and updated.

This is most necessary in order to cater for the demands made on the hall by increased bookings. After all this has been accomplished Ann and Ron say they will take it easy. but I doubt I am not alone in taking this with a large pinch of salt and everyone will thank them most sincerely for all the hard work they have done unstintingly for all these years.

  • BANK Holiday Monday, August 31, is the date of the fete held at the Martinstown cricket field, from noon onwards, in aid of Cancer Research UK. Details to follow.

MARTINSTOWN Cricket Club is doing well with their 1st team through to the Dorchester Evening League Cup Final when they will play Bere Regis on Friday, July 17. Sadly their 2nd team lost to Bere Regis in the semi- final otherwise it would have been an all Martinstown Final and what a night that would have been!

Still with sport in mind, should anyone wish to revive the Short Mat Bowls they should get in touch with Ann for all the equipment is available.