GORDON WHITTEMORE: It was with great sadness that all those who have known Gordon Whittemore heard the news last Wednesday that he had died at his home in Finch Lane, in the presence of his family. Even by those who did not know him personally, Gordon had long been respected for the particular qualities which he brought to the editorship of the monthly magazine, the Harvington News, and it was his resignation from that undertaking which first alerted the village to the fact that he was ill.

His memorial service, which will follow a private cremation, was due to take place today at St James' church at 1pm.

ACTIVITY DAY: Many Harvington children were members of the group of 60 who enjoyed a fun-filled activity day at Spitten Farm, Ab Lench, last Saturday when, despite the intermittent showers, they worked enthusiastically on the theme of the making of Noah's Ark. Packed lunches and then tea, provided by members of all four benefice churches, punctuated the working sessions and the whole effort was brought to an end in a music-filled service which owed much to the energy and expertise of Keith Davies.

SHOW ENTRIES: Every household in the village should have received an entry form for the forthcoming competitive show, which is to take place in the marquee at the St James' village fete scheduled for June 18. It is many years since the village had its own agricultural show and a revival at this point seems unlikely, but the fete's organisers would like to make this miniature version a popular yearly event and, to this end, are asking people to enter into the spirit of the occasion and be willing to submit an entry into one or other of the categories.