NINE people from the United Benefice, representing the churches of Powick, Callow End and Guarlford with Madresfield, joined the United Games Evening at Somers Park Avenue Methodist Church Hall last Wednesday as part of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

Although not all reached the finals, the finalist for table tennis was Phil Bunyan (who lost), for ludo was Joy Bunyan (who lost) and Reverend David Nichol reached the final of the clergy contest of snooker (and he also lost). It was an evening of fun. Others taking part were Margaret and David Allen, Patricia and Paul Wyatt-Davis, Jo Walker, Rita de Boer and Meg Allsopp. Nine churches in the Link Group competed. The overall winner was St Joseph's. The table tennis final was won by Anthony Wiseman, the ludo final by Catherine Wiseman (both of St Joseph's) and the final of the snooker was won by Captain Steve Smith of the Salvation Army.

Have you purchased your tickets for the St Valentine's dinner and disco on Saturday, February 14? Tickets (in advance) are £15 to include a three-course meal, or £5 only for the disco from 9pm onwards. The meal starts at 7pm for 7.30pm and a choice of menus is available from Sue Overton on 01905 831273. The event, to be held in Powick Parish Hall, is in aid of Powick Playing Field Association.

Severn people plus Tilly the dog, walked around the Coddington - Wellington Heath area last Tuesday. Starting at the Farmers Arms, the five mile circular walk took in woodland, pasture and country lanes. The weather was cloudy but mild and the terrain dry except for a couple of muddy patches by farm gates.

The route led past Woofields Farm, past stables and across fields to Coddington Church and on through Coddington Vineyard where the vines grew in serried ranks up the slopes. A few catkins and early snowdrops were in flower and the first shoots of daffodil were growing in the banks.

A trek up Oyster Hill rewarded the ramblers from Powick Ramblers Group, with views towards the Malverns, the Cotswolds, west into Wales and north to the Clent Hills and Shropshire. From there the footpaths led through the Hope End Estate where Robert Browning built a house for Elizabeth Barrett-Browning.

The original house built in 1809 burnt down but was later rebuilt. It could be seen through the winter trees. A fine walled garden was seen, complete with glass houses and neat vegetable plots. The walk concluded at the Farmers Arms, Wellington Heath with a welcome drink and a sandwich.