n Sheppard House open day last Saturday attracted around 200 people and raised more than £1,500 for the day centre. This was slightly down on last year's 10th anniversary event. Sheppard House will go out to tender soon for its £250,000 bathroom extension. Work should begin in the autumn. The day centre was facing a £100,000 shortfall but has sold its garage block off Cleeve Mill Lane to make up the shortfall. It was bought by Direct Autos, which plans to move from its existing premises in the High Street. A new garage block for the day centre's buses will now be built.

n A FIRE engine was among the attractions at the Pickletots summer fete on Sunday. Refreshments, stalls and games, including hook the duck, find Bo Peep's sheep and welly throwing were laid on to entertain children, along with face- painting.

n Newent's Music Appreciation Group, Music Through the Ages, will meet next at the library, on Friday, July 29, at 8pm.