At the annual parochial church meeting, Staunton PCC treasurer John Luard gave an excellent report and at the same time made it clear to members present that there was no room for complacency and fundraising must go on even more for commitments to be met fully.

The meeting was chaired by the lay chairman, Ursula Groves-Smith, in the absence of Canon John Evans, priest-in-charge, and on his behalf she thanked everyone for all their work throughout the year.

She reported on the fabric of the church with no major problems, though there are a number of things needing attention during the coming year. Numbers fluctuate at services but all festivals and special services are very well attended. The family service is missed very much.

The ancient and original font which was found buried in the churchyard well over 40 years ago and which was dug up and has stood in a corner of the churchyard ever since is now back in the church. No one knows why it was buried.

All officers and members of the PCC were re-elected. Canon Evans and Rev Penny Hamer were thanked for their ministry, Jane Evans for her warm hospitality at all times and readers, church wardens, PCC sidesmen and women, the flower arrangers who also help to keep the church clean, organist Margaret Riley and Holly Chapman and everyone who contributes to the work and life of the church.

The voluntary working party, which is doing such a good job in the churchyard, will be holding another session tomorrow (Saturday) from 9.30am. Volunteers are always welcome.

Parish communion will be held in Staunton Parish Church on Sunday at 9.30am.

The next morning get together in aid of Staunton Church will be held in the lounge at Johnstone Close on Wednesday from 10.30am to noon. There will be coffee, bring and buy and raffle and lots of time to meet old friends and meet new ones. The last one was very successful and it is hoped other people from our villages will come along for a friendly get together.

Many people in Staunton were saddened to hear of the death of Mrs Adeline Burford, who passed away in Gloucester Royal Hospital at the age of 88. She will be sadly missed by all her family and our sincere sympathy is extended to them. Mrs Burford was one of the longest standing residents in the village. The funeral took place at the parish church of St James, Staunton, and was conducted by Canon John Evans. Interment followed in the churchyard.

Over 70 promises are to be auctioned at a grand auction of promises arranged by Staunton and Corse CE School PTFA and governors. There will be something for all the family, such as family admission to lots of local attractions, party food for up to 15 children, a flight from Staverton Airport over Staunton, also a helicopter ride. Other promises include half day computer training, dinner and B&B at the Holiday Inn, Gloucester, sailing, gardener for a morning, photographic portrait, chauffeur driven car for an evening and many more which will be in the full catalogue to be available from the school nearer the date, which is Saturday, May 17, in the school hall. Doors will open at 7pm for viewing with the auction starting at 7.30pm prompt. There will be a bar and food. It will be a great way to support the school with the proceeds going towards the building extensions. Everyone is welcome.

Staunton and Corse Scout group are holding a car boot sale at the Greyhound, Eldersfield on Sunday at 11.30am.