CONGRATULATIONS to local schoolboy Tom Rowell, who, I hear, has been selected by Gloucestershire County Cricket Club for an 11 week coaching course.

Tom is a member of Staunton & Corse Cricket Club and a member of their Under 11's team. Coaching is provided for both boys and girls up to the age of 18 throughout the summer and are coached by the club's coach John Forsey.

I went to look at the new equipment in the children's corner at the playing field at the weekend and jolly good it looks with swings, and colourful slides for both toddlers and older children, they look very inviting and although the corner is not yet complete children are already using them. Also nearby is a netball goal which was also being used.

The Lent Discussions will be held for all who are interested at Gadfield Elm, Staunton weekly either on Monday lunch hour or an Wednesday evening whichever suits people best. They start on March 5 and will follow the Diocesan Lent Course 'From seed to harvest' as the basis for the group's thoughts and prayers.

There is already a Monday Group in the three parishes of Staunton, Corse & Hartpury which is held on alternate Mondays in various members homes from 1pm to 2pm when subject discussed are on religious, social and ethical subjects. Further information can be obtained by ringing Canon John Evans (840302) or Rev Penny Hamer (700314).

Staunton Church Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 20 at 7pm in the church when parishioners will be welcomed to attend.

Staunton & District WI will be holding their next meeting on Wednesday, March 14 at 7pm in the lounge at Johnstone Close when the speaker will be from BBC Radio Gloucestershire. Visitors are welcome.