I have news about a gift for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. All children in Abbotsbury parish under the age of 16 will be given a commemorative mug. I have been asked to ask all those in Abbotsbury Parish, this includes Rodden, New barn, Elworth, East Bexington and Weirs farm, to register their children for this special gift. Please contact East Farm House on 01305 871363 with the child’s name address and age. The mugs will be given out on 5th June at Strangways hall. Details will be confirmed nearer the time.

I have been asked to mention a special event at St Nicholas’ Church Abbotsbury. There will be a United Benefice Service on Sunday 29th April, at which Stephen Dominy, Regional Coordinator for Christian Aid in Dorset, will be preaching. It starts at 10.30am. All are welcome to attend.

I would like to thank all those who attended the Portesham school fund-raising bingo on Friday 20th April. The room was packed with all ages and lots of the pupils were there enjoying themselves also. Ms. Prior did a sterling job as “caller” and the prizes were beautifully presented and amazing. So thanks for all the donations and effort put in, it was a great evening.

Saturday night’s St. Georges day quiz at the Swan inn in Abbotsbury was great fun. Teams of up to four members took part. The questions loosely based around England and English culture were at times quite tricky, but we liked that. A close result which had three teams with only one point in it! The tie-breaker was “how tall is scafell pike?”(3210ft). So thanks to all who came and a big thank you to the Beachcombers for organising it.

Quick reminders about future events; May sale for the Chesil bank preschool will take place on 5th May at Strangways hall 11.30am. There will be a BBQ, music, craft stalls and lots of activities for the children. If anyone would like a table, please phone Julie on 01305 871932.

Also, the next table top sale will be on 12th May at Strangways hall phone 01305 871629 to book a table.

Finally, remember to contact me with any news or local events clare29051@btinternet.com or phone (01305) 871931 Clare James.