It looks as if the year-long planning saga over the future of Runnings Park is some way towards resolution, with the recent approval of MHDC's southern area development control committee of the latest amended application for conversion of the former health centre and hotel buildings to 15 residential units.

This represents a substantial reduction from the 23 units originally proposed by Coxley Developments Ltd and may go some way to allaying concerns of village residents about increased traffic and pressure on utility and educational services.

Planning approval is also subject to the applicant entering a legal agreement concerning financial contributions towards education and recreation provision, now being drawn up by MHDC. Actual development is therefore still some way off.

Last Sunday's Carols by Candlelight service at St James's Church, conducted by our deacon, Reverend Rosemary Herbert, was the usual happy occasion with the church filled with young and old from all parts of the community, well-read lessons and fine singing from the choir - some recruited from outside the village to swell the praise. Thanks are due especially to John and Susan Raine for musical direction and accompaniment and, of course, to the indefatigable Rosemary, who works so hard to keep church affairs alive while there is no full-time vicar. Not forgetting those who decorated the church and provided sociable refreshments after the service. Even getting to and from the service was a smoother process than before on newly-laid tarmac on the paths to the north door of the church!