APOLOGIES for the lack of news in the villages of Powick and Callow End; this was due to the village voice being out of the country for a month.

Powick Parish Ramblers had a busy month in October. A four-mile walk alongside the River Teme from Bransford Bridge to Bransford Nurseries, onto the Leigh and Suckley Road, to Bransford Golf Course, along Chapel Lane and across fields returning to the Fox Inn was led by Joy and Phil Bunyan. A walk across the West Hams from Powick Old Bridge to Lordswood, on to Old Malvern Road via Kings End Lane and Colletts Green Farm was led by Peter Harris and finished back on Powick Hams and the River Teme.

The highlight of October was a weekend in the Royal Forest of Dean organised by ramblers Isobel and Peter Brant, including a walk on the sculpture trail. Twelve members stayed overnight at Parkend next to the RSPB Nagshead Nature Reserve. A seven-mile walk through the beautiful historic forest of oak, sweet chestnut and beech, was led by guide Alan March of Lydney.

Walks in November have included a three-mile walk around Hanley Swan led by Pat Ash. The next walk takes place on Thursday, November 18, starting at Cradley Church at 10am. This five-mile walk around Mathon and Cradley will be led by Jo Walker (01905) 357764 and Rita de Boer (01905) 830256.

Rehearsals are now underway for singers, including children who wish to sing or play an instrument or read a poem at the village Christmas carol 2004 planned for Saturday, December 18, at Powick (Callow End on Thursday, December 23).

Rehearsals are held on Thursdays in the Powick Parish Hall committee room at 7.30pm and 9pm. More details from Jenny Taylor on (01905) 830913.

The harvest gathering held last month in aid of Powick Parish hall was a great success enjoyed by over 90 people. A sumptuous buffet was prepared by the ladies of the committee and entertainment was provided by the Singing Sous Chefs, alias Will Tooby, and friends plus a young magician. Proceeds of £600 will be used to further improve the hall facilities, including purchase of more tables.

The October meeting of Powick Guild saw John Mason as guest speaker giving an interesting talk on Doodlebugs. With slides and models, he gave a comprehensive picture of the planning, production and launching of the V1, V2 and V3 against England during World War Two.

Some of the company present had experienced the attacks as had John, as he had lived outside the evacuation zone of London. Two gentlemen joined the meeting and would be most welcome at the November meeting on Tuesday, November 9, at 2.30pm in Powick Parish Hall committee room when tunes will be played on hand bells.

Work is now under way at Powick Church for the installation of ftoilet and kitchen facilities. Money is still needed to complete the project. Any donation, however small ,would be welcomed by the vicar or PCC members.

Members of the 7th Worcester Scout Group, Cubs and Beavers and members of 1st Powick Brownies are invited to attend the Remembrance Day service at St Peter's Church, Powick, on Sunday, November 14, for the 10.50am service. They are asked to assemble in the church drive at 10.30am in uniform. Standard bearers and escorts are asked to attend a rehearsal on Thursday, November 11, at 6.30pm at Powick Church. Meanwhile poppies are on sale in the village.

The local branch of the RSPB meets again at Powick Parish Hall on Wednesday, November 10, at 7.30pm.

Powick Badminton Club meets every Wednesday evening from 8pm at Powick Parish Hall (except the second Wednesday in the month).