VOLUNTEERS: Ten strong men and Katrina did a marvellous job on Saturday, tidying lower common.

They strimmed, raked and swept, and left it looking clean and tidy for the winter.

Twenty people attended the volunteer group AGM on Monday.

Chairman Ted Dowson extended thanks to the 28 individuals who had volunteered their services during the year to cut the grass at the burial ground, gravel pits or lower common.

Treasurer Peter Hopwood reported that, in the five years since the group formed, a cost saving of more than £36,000 had been achieved.

The meeting concluded with a talk by Paul Beevers, from Cliddesden Community Conservation Group.

SECRETS: You can buy a copy of the Villager's Secrets 2007 calendar from Jerry Tibble on 01256 474922, or Rose Taplin on 01256 381417, priced at £6.50.