YOUTH PROJECT: The next event involving the members of the project, this time the older ones, is a football match to be held on the Cricket Club ground on December 9. Harvington's opponents will be the Hayhill Baptist Church youth team and we understand that they are reputed to be very good. Our team will need support and the event is being published well in advance so that readers can make a note of the date and resolve to be there. Kick-off will be at 2pm. A late lunch in the Baptist Church is being provided for the players after the match by a group of supporters and it is hoped that the whole event will be well received by all who wish to encourage those village activities which involve, particularly, our young people.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY: Continuing the theme of young people it was a joy to see that, amongst the many worshippers in St James' church for the Remembrance Service last Sunday were Harvington's Girl Guide troup. Sixteen of their members were present, accompanied by their leaders Kathryn Evans and Jill Smith. The act of remembrance was included in the communion service and followed a short but moving talk by the Rev Thorniley on the subject of courage and sacrifice and love. The names of the fallen were read out by members of the congregation, after which everybody present filed up to the altar to lay individual poppies, two wreaths having already been placed there by Dennis McKenzie, chairman of the parish council and David Graham representing the British Legion. Traditional hymns were heartily sung by an exceptionally good congregation and it was good to see so many people, of all ages, gathered to honour the dead, remember the suffering and pray for peace. Michael Hemming, unable to present in person, had previously recorded the Last Post and this most fittingly concluded that part of the service. Over coffee and biscuits later, questions and answers were being exchanged on the work currently taking place in church where new lighting has been installed and the pews at the rear of the building removed, with the floor raised ready for carpeting and an area created in which there are to be chairs provided for seating. Mr Graham later reported that the poppy day collection had raised £809, an increase of £130 on last year. In thanking everyone concerned - people who had given so generously and his dedicated collectors and other helpers - he included Sheila McKenzie and Edith Cappell who had helped with the tedious job of counting the donations.

GIRL GUIDES: Harvington Girl Guides meet on Friday evenings in the village hall from 6.15pm to 7.45pm where they enjoy a wide range of activities, many of which involve being of service to the community and to various charities for which they raise money. Currently the group is virtually at maximum strength but with the prospect of one or two of the older girls leaving, there are places for a few more and anyone interested should ring one of the group's leaders on either 870550 or 870133 for details. A new adult helper is also sought, to replace Rachel Alcock who is having to withdraw because of other commitments. The leaders would be glad to hear from anyone who is able, and willing, to give up an evening a week to these enthusiastic young teenagers who have committed themselves to a very worthwhile organisation.