As the wild flowers in West Malvern's Community Woodland approach their peak summer show - notably campion, ragged robin and oxeye daisies, close observers may be wondering if autumn has started early, with the appearance of yellow patches on a number of the planted trees and shrubs. Fear not! The marks are sprayed paint, to identify which ones are to be taken out as part of a thinning programme to be carried out in the coming weeks. This will ensure that the best, and best-situated, specimens which remain can develop to their full potential.

Meanwhile, as a late finale to the village's Jubilee celebrations, our tree wardens are proposing to plant a tree, or a small group of trees, to mark the 50 years since the Queen's Coronation. Because tree planting is best done in winter, the actual ceremony will not coincide with the June festival, but be left until the end of the year. Sites in West Malvern suitable for such plantings are limited, especially since Conservators' land in the village is now unavailable, so that the Community Woodland and the Playing Field are the most likely locations, and to some extent the location could influence the type of tree/trees to be planted. As happened with the trees planted round the village 21 years ago to celebrate the birth of Prince William, village residents are being invited to make donations towards the costs involved. The wardens will be happy not only to receive donations, but also suggestions as to the species and siting of the trees. They are Hilary Elgar, Wyke House, Croft Bank (tel 568960), and Janet Whittlestone, Wellcove, Croft Farm Drive (tel 572384). They will also have a stand at the festival weekend fete on June 21.

Summer may be here (at last), but 'spring cleaning day' at St James's Church is planned for next Saturday, June 7. Anyone willing to help should contact Rosemary Herbert on 572497. Following extensive seasonal trimming in the churchyard by Community Service workers last week, Roy Brazier will be organising another working afternoon on the following Saturday, June 14, which anyone is welcome to join between 2-5pm - all hands welcome.