CERNE ABBAS CAMPAIGN to Protect Rural England: The CPRE will be holding a seminar day at the Village Hall on Tuesday, May 15.

It will look at the implications of the changes to the National Planning Policy Framework and also the Localism Act and Neighbourhood Planning for the county.

Speakers will include the organisation’s own expert Kate Houghton, Dr David Evans, Planning Director at West Dorset District Council and Howard Thomas from CPRE who will speak on “Sustainable Communities”.

Furthermore, representatives from the Cerne Valley Parish Council as well as Magna Housing will talk about Cerne’s Neighbourhood Planning Project and how the Localism Act could enable more affordable or rented housing.

For more information on the above visit www.cernevalleyl.org or call the CPRE on 01305 265808 (Tuesday or Thursday morning) or e-mail them on info@dorset-cpre.org.uk.

The cost of attending the Seminar is £ 5 per person to include tea, coffee and biscuits.

An optional buffet lunch at £ 5 per person is available.

MAYFAIR: The Mayfair held by Cerne Abbas First School each year is always a major fund raiser.

It takes place on Saturday, May 19 this year, in the afternoon, at the school playing fields.

Volunteers from in and around the village are now urgently needed.

There are many options: you could opt to sell raffle tickets, contribute to the stalls, donate prizes and also just spread the word!

The following stalls are planned: Bric-a-brac, Adult Tombola, Toys, Plants, Books/CDs, Cakes & Savouries, School Uniform Seconds/As New and many more.

Help would also be appreciated with setting up tables and erecting gazebos.

If you feel you would like to help please pop into the school and see Alex in the office.

Otherwise mark Saturday, May 19 in your diary and enjoy and afternoon out!

“A RIGHT Royal Memories” is the title of a display being organised in the village in honour of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Do you have any stories to tell, any memories of other celebrations of the Queen?

For example, were you present at the Silver or Golden Jubilee?

How do you remember the Coronation or do you have any photographs of any of those events?

In that case Jennie Paterson would love to hear from you!

Call her on 01300 341964.

VOLUNTEERS are asked to come forward now to assist with the once-in-a-lifetime Jubilee Celebrations!

Festivities will commence on Sunday, June 3 with a special Holy Communion at St. Mary’s Church, followed by a Street Party on Monday, June 4.

More details will be printed in this column nearer the time.

In the meantime, if you are able to help, especially during the Street Party, your input would be much appreciated!

There are many activities planned, thanks to Nic and Adam, Abbots represents the contact and information point for the Jubilee Celebrations.

To register your interest in volunteering and to find out more, pop into Abbots or call them on 01300 341349.

On a slightly different note, financial contributions would also make a huge difference.

A grant has been applied for by the Parish Council but your help would nonetheless go a long way towards the cost of music, fireworks etc. – thank you!

Please call Sandy and Alan on 01300 341332 in this matter or leave a donation at 5 Abbey Street.

THEATRE Club: The next monthly meeting will take place at the Royal Oak on Monday, May 14.

It starts at 10:30am for 10:45am and new members are always welcome.

Why not bring a friend also?

The forthcoming outing will be The Swan Theatre’s production of “A Man for all Seasons” on Tuesday, May 22.

For more information contact Chairman Yvonne on 01300 341421 or Secretary Trish on 01300 342058.

CONFIRMATION/Baptism Group: A small group of young people (aged 13 and over) and one adult will be preparing for Confirmation within the Benefice.

Vicar Revd Jonathan Still would like to encourage anyone who has missed out on their baptism or christening and wishes to undertake this “journey” as an adult or young adult.

Alternatively, if you wish to “confirm” the baptismal promises made on your behalf when you were young, you are equally welcome to join this group.

Please call Jonathan on 01300 341251 or e-mail cernevicar@gmail.com.

BUCKLAND NEWTON DOMINEY’S Yard will again open its doors and delight its visitors on Sunday, May 13 between 2pm – 6pm.

With Spring well on its way, come and admire the flowering tree peonies, candelabra primula and early herbaceous.

Azaleas, Camellias, Rhododendren and Magnolias are also in bloom, don’t forget to take a look at the striking Magnolia Globosa with its pink markings on white, hanging flowers!

Children go free, and the arboretum will be open from noon for anyone who wants to bring a picnic.

Refreshments will of course be for sale as well as plants.

All proceeds go to the National Gardens Scheme charities.