AS always it proved to be truly magical walk along that little country road that leads down into the tiny hamlet of Compton Valence for the banks and verges were covered with snowdrops

This foretaste of spring was further enhanced by the over hanging hazel catkins, or better known as lambs tails.

The little church of Thomas Backet also had its carpet of snowdrops under the yew trees.

Sadly there were no refreshments available on this weekday visit with friends but the problem was easily solved on our return to Martinstown where a warm welcome was forthcoming from John and Jackie at the Brewers Arms.

It may be well worth mentioning that family parties can be assured of a warm welcome here for all ages can be catered for.

YOU never know when a face from the past may turn up, for it was a great joy for me to see “Little Ruth” from distant country dancing days greet me.

This immediately rolled back those years to the days when a Martinstown resident Doris Grote taught us.

What a legacy of memories she left behind.

MARTINSTOWN Village Hall saw the Valley Benefice celebrating Shrove Tuesday with a Pancake Party for all ages.

As it was under the inspirational guide of Dick Corbett-Winder I can imagine the hilarity that ensured with pancake races and tossing, as sadly, I was unable to attend.

LENTEN Lunches are being held in the village hall every Friday at 12.30pm and I may say that there is nothing penitential whatsoever about the fare on offer.

For the sum of £3.50 you receive a bowl of delicious homemade soup, roll and butter, plus cheese and an assorted salad and a cup of tea or coffee.

After covering the modest costs of the volunteers on the rota all profits will benefit the 2010 Parish Charities as follows: A Rocha, USPG Send a Cow, Samaritans Purse, Christian Aid and The Childrens’ Society.

That is the plus side of the event, but the minus side of this first lunch lies in the sparse attendance from the Valley villagers.

Hopefully the word will get round and more will avail themselves of the opportunity to show solidarity with this good cause.

IT was a privilege to have been invited to a party for Ted Ingram (the oldest Echo paperboy).

With so many Happy 90th Birthday balloons on display it was a wonder the Martinstown Villlage Hall did not become airborne.

The birthday boy was far away the most lively of that convivial gathering of family and friends and still had plenty of puff when it came to blowing out all the candles set amid the decorations of tractors and farm animals on a huge cake.

Ted had told everyone that he did not really need presents but would appreciate donations for Cancer Care and research, and I believe that over £200 pounds have so far been donated.

A little bird told me that Ted is still in line for a lady friend and says all hopefuls must form an orderly queue, any who push and show will be disqualified immediately!

THE village hall kitchen has been very busy lately.

As I have heard many appreciative comments, I feel it gives me an opportunity on behalf of all the hall users to give most heartfelt thanks to Ann and Ron Matthews and their friends for all the hard work that they have done to achieve this icon.

Ann, especially, has worked to gold medal standard to make this come true and no doubt has still got some ideas in the pipeline.

Ann, the community salutes you.

MARTINSTOWN WI will meet in the village hall on Monday, March 8 at 7.45pm.

The speakers will be Mrs Una Russell and Mrs Audrey Grindrod on The Manor Houses of Dorset.

Visitors welcome.