IT is a very strange feeling not being able to get to either Gloucester or Cheltenham without making a long detour with both Maisemore and Haw Bridge roads closed because of the floods and even getting to Newent can be unpredictable with the River Leadon over the bridge at Upleadon.

We are lucky even so, we are not flooded out in our village although some roads do have water over at different times and some of our parishioners have to be vigilant with the brooks so full.

The floods did not stop some people for attending the 'Celebration of Marriage Service' at Staunton Parish Church. Those who were able to attend found it a very moving service, as did those of us who have lost their husbands and wives.

Two couples in the congregation had their rings blessed by Canon John Evans who conducted the service.

The church was filled and there were two christenings, Poppy Ann baby daughter of Julie and Alastair Watkins and James Shaun Alan, baby son of Julie and Shaun Smith. They were baptised with water from the River Jordan and welcomed into the family of the church by the whole congregation. The Lessons were read by Mr Nigel Smith and the Church wardens June Fardon and Ursula Groves-Smith took the offertory. The organist was Margaret Riley.

A buffet lunch was enjoyed after the service at The Barn, by invitation of Canon and Mrs Evans.

On Sunday, November 12 a Service of Remembrance will be held at the War memorial, Staunton, when the two minutes silence will be observed and the laying of a wreath by the Women's Royal British Legion which will be followed by a service in the church.

I am not keen on fireworks but from my window I saw a quite spectacular display by chance of Staunton & Corse C of E Parent Teacher & Friends Associations on their bonfire night, Saturday, November 4. It really was a superb show and there were many fireworks which I had never seen with brilliant colours and quite long lasting. It was held in the Swan Field, a real family occasions with a barbecue. Congratulations to all concerned, everyone, especially the children must have loved it.

The proceeds form 'Marjorie's Coffee Morning' for November was in aid of Cancer Research and raised £70. The event held monthly at the home of Marjorie and Elwyn Jones is in aid of Staunton Church funds except for once a year. Besides the usual raffle and bring & buy there was also a Christmas hamper which was raffled and it was won by Elwyn. The event is always held on the first Wednesday in the month.

A special Christmas Coffee Morning is being held on Saturday, November 18 at Vynes Farmhouse. This is in place of the normal joint Christmas Fair, as Corse PCC did not wish to take part this year, and which Staunton PCC have arranged for church funds. There will be a Christmas gift stall, cakes, Christmas cards, wrapping paper etc and a raffle.

Winners in Corse & Staunton '100 Club' Draw in September were 1 Mrs Langford, 2 Mrs L Houldey, 3 Mrs C Thomas, 4 Mr M Harley. October winners were 1 Mr P Riley, 2 Mrs B Barnes, 3 Mrs E Gough, 4 Mr N Hulls.