BIG BASH: At St Laurence's Church last Saturday a 'Big Bash' was held, the proceeds of which went toward the national relief fund for the farming community.

The entertainment was varied, the Rev Hall was compere, introducing organ solos by Darren Oliver and Matthew Penn, singing by the school choir, lead by Mrs Carter, readings by Margery Noise and David Benskins, and items by the handbell ringers, McCarthy Felton Irish dancers, Brown Owl and the Brownies, Ave Maria, sung by Jane Hall, the Bidford School musicians, a piano duet by Jane Hall and Darren Oliver and a solo song by Graham Smith. The choir sang two pieces by John Rutter and the entertainment ended with a community singalong. Strawberry teas were available in the Church room. The proceedings were graced with the company of Gordon and Janet Gatwood representing the charity. The list of credits for raffle prizes and help with organisation are far too numerous to list so a collective thank you to everyone involved is in order.

CHOIR: A new octet of singers has formed in Bidford. Known as Four by Two they sing for the love of singing and plan a charity concert at St Laurence's Church, on July 14, with the proceeds toward the Brian Tumour Fund and the Christmas lights. Mr Straw is the mainstay of proceedings and Mr and Mrs Coles are opening their garden for strawberry teas and Fizz. Tickets are available from Morgan's newsagents.

THE PRAM SERVICE: St Laurence's vicar the Rev Hall held a pram service, which started with the children ringing the bells, one of which had a gremlin and refused to ring! After the bells a song was rendered then Mrs Noise preceded the children down the aisle bearing the cross. A candle was then lit by one of the children and another song was sung. The vicar gave a discourse on Noah's Ark and produced a large wooden ark complete with animals. The children were very good, as was the vicar's story, then there was another song and the candle was blown out. The mothers seemed to enjoy it as much as the kids.