FAMILY ACTIVITIES - Summer fun at Madley Environmental Centre.

Today (Thursday): 10am feast and forage – find out what would've been eaten in the old days and cook on the open fire; 1pm den building – make and play in dens in the woods.Tuesday: 10am, pond explorers – pond dipping and creature craft; 1pm float your boat – make and race bark boats and elastic band and candle powered craft.

Morning sessions are 10am-noon and afternoon sessions are 1pm-3pm: full day £10, half-day £6, adults free. Children must be accompanied by an adult and booking is essential. The centre, a registered charity, has activities every Tuesday and Thursday until August 15.

Ring 01981 512561 or visit mesc.org.uk for details and to book.

PARISH COUNCIL - The last meeting was held on July 2 in the parish hall. Simon Turner, of Golden Valley Scouts, attended and invited ideas of ways they could get involved in the community or help with local activities The parish council is still looking for a volunteer parish paths officer. Anyone who enjoys walking regularly and would be willing to provide a short report at the monthly parish council meetings can contact the clerk on carlaboyles@ talktalk.net or 01432 271209.

The condition of Claypits Lane was discussed. The clerk would contact BT and Welsh Water which both have premises accessed by the lane to request a contribution towards upgrading the lane. There is a vacancy on the parish council for one parish councillor; for more information, please contact the clerk. The next meeting is on September 3 at 7.15pm in the parish hall. All welcome.