THE weeks leading up to Christmas were pretty hectic, with most organisations doing something extra by way of celebration.

During the last week of term, all the children, parents and teachers attended the carol concert for Staunton & Corse School, the church was packed and the children read poems, sang songs and said prayers and a number of children played recorders etc. Rosie Miller introduced the items and Canon John Evans led the prayers.

On a beautifully mild evening, the midnight service was held at Staunton Parish Church and once again the church was full with extra seating brought into use. The service was conducted by the Reverend Penny Hamer assisted by Ursula Groves-Smith. The organist, Holly Chapman, accompanied the singing of all the well-loved carols. The collection was taken by Stan Cotton, churchwarden, and his two grandsons, Ben and James Norton.

On Sunday, December 26 a service of said communion was conducted by Canon John Evans and on the first Sunday in Epiphany, there was a good congregation for the family service with Canon Evans again officiating. The address was given by Bishop Derek Rawcliffe, retired, who was the celebrant during the celebration of holy communion, assisted by Ursula Groves-Smith. Margaret Riley was the organist.

There will be a meeting of Staunton Parish Council on Tuesday, January 11 at 7.15pm in the lounge at Johnstone Close Flats.