PARISH COUNCIL -- Terry Holden, who has given many years of service to Almeley Parish Council, as its chairman, has had to resign because of his very heavy business commitments. John Hope, a former chairman, has succeeded Mr Holden as the new chairman. Members of Almeley Parish Council are John Hope, Stewart Anthony, Walter Edwards, John Plummer, Claire Price, Martin Skyrme and John Smith. The new council's first meeting was on Tuesday, June 17.

WHIST DRIVE -- The penultimate whist drive in the current fortnightly series, was held in Almeley Village Hall on Tuesday, June 10. Sandra Payne who, with her husband Alan, has organised the series, announced that the whist drive to be held on Tuesday, June 24, will be the last until September. Rick Harris acted as door steward and was assisted by Bryn Thomas as MC. Prizes were presented by Mrs Payne to Ann Preece, Mary Gates, Margaret Kerrigan, Marge Drew, Audrey Lloyd, Betty Lane, Gwen Thomas and John Allen.

SALE -- There will be a sale of ex-catalogue goods from the Connaught/Blitz Company, in Almeley Village Hall on Thursday, June 26, from 7pm-9pm. Admission is £1.

GARDENS -- Almeley School has organised 10 gardens to be open in the village on Saturday and Sunday, June 28-29. The gardens will be open from 11am-5pm. Lunches and cream teas will be served. There will be indoor and outdoor plants on sale and arts and crafts. Tickets will be available to purchase at the village hall or the car park on the day, at a cost of £3.50 for adults, children free.The organisers are now collecting together the plants for the plant stall. Please contact Catherine (01544) 327199 if you have any plants ready and collection will be arranged.