• The AGM of the Mission Hall Management Trust ran very smoothly, under the stewardship of the Chair, Anthea Heathershaw. She reported that the Hall continued to be used regularly by local organisations and individuals. During the last year it had been decorated, the floor sealed, a new cooker installed and the path up to the orchard had been widened. Eight new gazebos had also been purchased. Treasurer John Allen presented the annual accounts which showed a healthy financial state of affairs, despite much work being carried out. He did warn that a reserve would need to be established for necessary capital projects in the future such as replacing the floor and windows. He and the Chairman thanked all the volunteers who had worked so hard over the year. The entire committee was re-elected en bloc, and John Crisp proposed a vote of thanks to them for continuing to maintain the Hall in such a good condition for the benefit of the whole village. This proposal was received enthusiastically. Over coffee at the end of the meeting there was much discussion of the recent inclement weather!

• During the recent heavy rains I was out at Fisherbridge at 11pm on the Saturday and can report that the new flood prevention work coped admirably. The water was kept at bay and the houses saved from certain flooding, so well done the Environment Agency.

• The July draw of the St Andrew’s School 200 club took place in Mrs Johnstons' year 6 class. Charlotte Cheatle drew the £50 prize for Mrs Sue McNern, Samuel Breaks helped Fiona Vog to £30, and Anna Lawson selected Mrs Lucas for the £15 prize. Congratulations to all the winners and well done Anna for pulling out the Head’s number – apparently it is the first time she has won in 12 years entering! All the money from the monthly draw goes towards facilities for the children, so contact Helen Webb at helencwebb@fsmail.net if you would like to help.

• Caroline Crisp tells me that cream teas, courtesy of the Sutton Poyntz Society, will be available in the Mission Hall orchard on Saturday 21 July, starting at 3pm. They are always excellent value, and there’s nothing like a scone with oodles of jam and cream eaten in the open air in good company. Even if it rains – and it doesn’t do that in Sutton Poyntz often – there is the Hall itself to fall back on. See you there.