BONFIRE NIGHT: Dry weather again blessed the bonfire night held at the Recreation Centre. Nearly 700 people paid to come and watch - and a few didn't, taking advantage of the new free grandstand view from the Pershore Road over the recently lowered hedge! Some gentle persuasion by way of an explanation of what the new Rec project is all about soon ensured that donations were received from all and the crowds watched a spectacular display masterminded as ever by Richard Forrest. The finale was perceived to be better than previous years. The bonfire was considered to be the best for many a year - with only two tractors for rubbish collection this year. Younger members of the community turned out to help the usual collection gang this year, and the Rec Committee and the Scouts and Guides provided soup, hot dogs and baked potatoes and a new addition was chilli from Sarah Fincher.

The good news is that £1,214 has been added to Rec funds. Special thanks have been given to Adrian Ball and Keith Norton, who returned the next day and beyond to complete the important task of clearing the site and returning the Rec to normal.

SCOUTS AND GUIDES GROUP: Saturday - Christmas Bazaar, 2pm in the village hall, with stalls including books, cakes, sweets, tombola, jewellery, raffles, novelties and refreshments.

Small boxes suitable for jewellery are needed, contact Di Singleton.

Monday, December 8 - Carols around the Campfire, 6.30pm to 7.30pm at headquarters, Pershore Road. Tickets from group leaders or Lizzie Ransted (750855 or 077 32673169).

UNDER FIVES: Scalextric will return to the village hall, on Sunday, starting at 2.30pm. For information call Richard Arnold on 01386 751478.

MUMS AND MINNOWS: Meet in the Upper Room at Church for a short service, toys, making and refreshments. All pre-school children with parents/carers welcome. The collection goes to the Children's Society, 2pm to 3pm, Thursday, December 4.

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION: The Remembrance Service was well attended. It was good to see so many of the older RBL members present. Many villagers joined in the open-air service by the village memorial, led by Rev Peter Thomas and curate Biddi Kings. The Wrens association and Guides and Brownies also joined in. We were delighted to have former village police constable Charlie Cavendish also join us. A very moving occasion.

The RBL AGM will take place on Monday, December 1, 8pm at The Anchor Inn.

FRIENDS OF ECKINGTON SCHOOL (FOES): Will be holding FOES Winter Warmer on Saturday, December 13, in the village hall, 7.30pm for 8pm. A gala night of fine food and entertainment. A three course meal - starter, curry or bolognese and a selection of desserts will be served. Only £8.50 a head (bring your own drinks), tickets from Sid on 750039 or Liz on 079 800 223 86.

BRAIN OF ECKINGTON: Another very successful quiz night hosted by Eckington Under Fives. The village hall was packed with 23 teams, the final winners being Four Heads, second place Unintelligensia and third place Half a Mind. Bar Trek walked away with the booby prize and the Blockbuster was won by The e-snails. Thanks to John Mould for setting the quiz again this year and to all the people responsible for a smoothly run evening. Around £300 was raised and this is to be split between playgroup, toddlers and the new Rec Centre.