Castlemorton Common Assoc-iation would like to express their gratitude to Roger Jakeman for his many years of service as chairman of the association. Med Snookes is the new chairman and faces the daunting task of managing this blossoming organisation,

The first social event of the 2004 calendar took place last Friday evening at the Castlemorton Village Hall, where a packed house enjoyed a night of ferret racing. This was by way of a diversion for the association and is symbolic of some of the new ideas for fundraising.

Following on from recent gorse clearance, the association is planning a spring litter drive across Castlemorton and Hollybed Commons; a kind offer from a sponsor of litterbags and transport has already been received. Ian Rowat, director of Malvern Hills Conservators, has kindly offered picking sticks and fully supports the association in this worthwhile initiative. What the association now needs is your help. Anyone interested in helping to cleaning up our beautiful environment, and to enjoy a good healthy walk, please watch this space for further information.

You do not need to be living on the commons to be a member of the association. Anyone who is interested in the wide-open spaces and loves this unique part of the country can become a member.

The next event for your diaries is Friday, February 13, which is the annual social supper; besides the supper there will be a bar, raffle, and live entertainment. Tickets are £6 and available from committee members; enquiries on 01684 833870, 833504, 833454.