CHRISTMAS celebrations began on December 16 with the dedication of the new vestry at St James' Church, when the Bishop of Dudley Rt Rev Walker blessed the new vestry. He gave thanks for the life and generosity of the late Rev John Pumphrey in his bequest, and gave thanks for those who designed and built the vestry. The reading by Digby Wood. Among the visitors attending were Rev John & Joyce Ilson.

Congratulations to Tom Wells, his choir and team of readers and musicians who brought Christmas cheer in seasonal words and music to Callow End last Thursday. Held in the village hall, the event proved as popular as ever and was rounded off with coffee and mince pies.