BE ALERT: With Christmas fast approaching, Captain Tuck, of the local Neighbourhood Watch, reminds us that extra care is needed to safeguard all those expensive presents, particularly by keeping them out of sight and away from windows in both cars and houses. Increased opportunist theft is sadly a seasonal flaw!

STAR appearance: This weekend’s big event is the St Mary’s Church Bazaar, held from 2pm to 4pm in the village hall. Admission just 30p.

Show success always means personal appearances so, following upon her starring role as the Pantomime Cow, the effervescent Ermintrude along with our lovely carnival princess, will be performing the opening ceremony. All the usual seasonal stalls and festive fun.

DIG in for December: Only one opportunity this month, on Saturday, December 12, for three hours from 10am, to join the working party in the Old Churchyard, clearing and tidying up the vegetation.

Contact Fay on 01256 476863.

BASING Singers: This doughty group, fresh from their piratical capers, will be singing carols at Milestones Museum from 6.30pm to 9.30pm on Saturday, December 12.

Enjoy a Victorian-themed Family Christmas Evening where craft workshops, mulled wine and mince pies await all comers.

’TWAS the week before Christmas and Father Christmas with assorted elves and fairies will be visiting the Linden Market in Old Basing on Sunday, December 20, from 11am.

It’s a good time for festive fare and last-minute gift ideas.