Sydling St Nicholas

On Saturday, March 1 Elizabeth - The Golden Age is being shown at the village hall.

Having seen the film myself on the Big Screen, I can verify what a stunning performance Cate Blanchett gives as Queen Elizabeth.

Clive Owen is dashing as Walter Raleigh and not only is the victory over the Spanish Armada covered but also Elizabeth's much-discussed love life. She was, after all, called The Virgin Queen and her romantic life the cause of much speculation.

Nevertheless, England enjoyed one of its wealthiest and most peaceful periods under her reign. So don't miss this film which will start at 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm.

The tickets are £4.50 in advance or £5 on the door. To book call Romy Barton (01300 341961) or Mike Fountain (01300 342192).

Buckland Newton

The next Artsreach production is called The Polish Play and takes place on Sunday, March 2.

This fantastic production which starts at 7.30pm is by Farnham Maltings Theatre Company.

It is an evening that starts as a play and ends as a country dance. It is the story of a father and daughter arriving from Poland to start a new life here - a story about belonging, growing up and our place in the world. Tickets for this very topical production are £6.50 for adults, £4.50 for under-18s and £18 for families.

They are available from Fran and John on 01300 345543.

  • Sydling and District Garden Society would like to remind all its members that subscription renewals are due during March.

This is also the time when new members are warmly invited to join. If you would like to do just that, please contact the membership secretary Monica Skilling, Chapel Cross, Sydling St. Nicholas DT2 9PE.

The society's AGM takes place on Tuesday, March 11.

Cerne Abbas

In association with Fairtrade Fortnight from February 25-March 9, St Mary's Church is hosting a Fairtrade Evening on Friday, March 7. It starts at 7.30pm.

Jennie Rake will give an illustrated talk on Fairtrade Craft Workshops in India and Peru and explain what Fairtrade is all about.

Fairtrade refreshments will be offered and products will be for sale.

  • Beating the Bounds: Even though its origins are still unknown, the custom of beating the bounds has been in existence for over 2,000 years.

Cerne Abbas will revive this tradition for the first time this year. Traditionally performed on Rogation Sunday, it falls on April 27 this year.

Cerne Abbas and Nether Cerne boundaries will be walked as they appear on the Ordnance Survey Map.

The walk will start at 9.30am at St. Mary's Church and everyone is welcome.

It will total 14 miles but smaller chunks can be walked for everyone who wishes not to go the full distance.

Lunch will be organised half way in Nether Cerne and everyone is invited to meet at the New Inn afterwards for a barbecue.

This walk not only intends to awaken an old tradition but also strives to unite land and community.

Please note April 27 in your diaries and if you have further questions call Mike Clark on 341082.