The English Bridge Union (EBU) has agreed to use the new Memorial Hall at Wellington Heath to run a series of club director training courses. The first two courses will be held from 10am-5pm on the following dates: Saturday, March 22, (Essentials) fee £27, Saturday, April 26, (Book Rulings) fee TBN. There will be two further courses during the September-December period. The dates have yet to be determined. Anyone interested should contact Chris Brown on (01296) 317200 or fax (01296) 317220.

"Bridge for All" courses have been running for a year at Wellington Heath and it is now hoped to start another beginners course under the scheme on Monday, January 13, (10am-noon) provided there are enough enrolments. A new improvers Bridge Club for beginners is also being set up initially from Tuesday, January 7, to April 8 (2.30-5pm). Anyone who has completed units 1 or 2 of the Bridge for All scheme will be particularly welcome, but others with a basic understanding of Standard English or Acol may also apply to join. Anyone interested can ring Neville Shorrick on (01531) 633475.

Other courses taking place next term at the Memorial hall include: Pilates fitness sessions (Wednesday evenings) and Aerobics (TBN - mornings or afternoons - provided there is sufficient support). Anyone interested in enrolling for these two courses should contact the tutor, Joy Pearman (01432) 820484. Painting and drawing (from January 13 - Mondays 1-3pm), further information can be obtained from the tutor, Elaine Bentley (01684) 892532. Closing date for enrolments December 28.

Services at Christ Church on Sunday, December 22, and on Christmas Day December 25 there will be a family communion at the usual time of 9.30am. There will be a midnight service at Pixley Church starting at 11.30pm, then mulled wine and mince pies.

Twenty eight people gathered on Tuesday evening to sing carols round the village led by Dave Evans. They were fortified with refreshments at the Old Rectory by Helen and Gavin James and by the time they arrived at the Farmers Arms the collection for Save the Children amounted to £100. Tin rattlers included Anna and Becky Brown, Luke and John Mayall and Katrina and Rhianna Lee Buxton.