EVEN with scattered showers over the weekend, everything went as planned and the countryside was looking lovely for the many travellers passing through our villages.

Unfortunately it was tinged with sadness in Staunton with the funeral of seven-week-old Ashleigh Lauren, daughter of Dan and Michelle Ward, who had died in the Children's Intensive Care Unit at Bristol Royal Hospital. The funeral took place at Staunton Parish Church on Saturday, May 29 conducted by Canon John Evans. Our deepest sympathy is extended to Michelle and Dan in their tragic loss.

The paintings and crafts exhibition weekend for Staunton Church, held at Gadfield Elm House, got off to a good start on Friday evening with a preview super attended by 70 people. There were 151 paintings on view by local artists, which created great interest with many being sold. The exhibition continued over the following three days with many visitors to the garden, which was open to the public. The PCC are immensely grateful to Canon and Mrs Evans for all their magnificent effort and for opening their home.

Both churchwardens from Maisemore and from Staunton churches attended the Archdeacon's visitation at St James' Church, Gloucester and, with others in the Gloucester and North Gloucester Deanery, were duly sworn in for the year 2004/5. The Archdeacon of Gloucester, the Venerable Geoffrey Sidway, conducted the very impressive service. Music was by the St James' Music Group.