ON a rather gloomy evening after an afternoon of heavy rain, ten members of Staunton and district Rambling Club enjoyed a town and country walk at Tewkesbury.

Passing through Clarks Alley, the Mill Avon was crossed and Tewkesbury Ham was circumnavigated. A pause at the weir was taken where salmon were seen jumping the weir and a Kingfisher was spotted.

Crossing at the mill and going through the park the group walked down Lower Lode Lane and followed the Battle Trail through Bloody Meadow, a field and pathway to the vineyards.

The Abbey bells had been ringing since the start of the walk and at the site of Halme Castle in the vineyards and the Abbey tower, now floodlit, added to the pleasure of the walk.

Return into the town was made crossing the River Swilgate and through three of Tewkesbury's unique alleys, Fletchers with its remnant of the wall of the old 19th Century public toilets, Wells Court and Old Post Office Alley.

David and Gill Redmond led this most interesting of walks with its history, its wildlife and not least it scenic beauty.

Staunton churchgoers were back to normal service after a break when members attended both Hartpury and Maisemore churches, in the first instance for the Rev Penny Hamer's first communion service following her ordination and secondly for the induction of the Rev Canon John Evans as nonstipendiary priest in charge of the benefice of Maisemore now united with Hartpury, Corse and Staunton.

The family service at St James on the first Sunday in August was the family service conducted by Canon Evans. It also included the baptism of Elliot Blake, son of Lindsey and Chris Finch before a large congregation who welcomed Elliot into the family of the church.

Robert Whitestone read the lesson and Canon Evans was the Celebrant during the celebration of Holy Communion assisted by Ursula Groves-Smith.

The offertory was taken by Jo Claessen assisted by little Paige Fardon and Margaret Riley was the organist.

Staunton Church barbecue was a great success and very lucky to have a dry evening if a little chilly but everyone dressed accordingly.

The setting at the Hill was perfect as nearly ninety people of all ages enjoyed the splendid food with our super chef Ben Creese, Ben's wife and Judy Jakeman doing the cooking, and all the PCC members and friends assisting serving salads and drinks, on the gate, selling raffle tickets and choc ices and with lively music arranged by Sheila and Tony Carter to give everyone a good evening.

Staunton church funds will benefit by just over £730.00. Everyone's support was appreciated by the PCC.