Thanks to the villagers who are transforming and using the village hall and thanks to local businesses who have supported them. For example: the village hall garden and our bench with a view.

Helen from Arcadia volunteered to improve the garden — do you remember the sad green plastic fence and patchy turf? When Helen shared her ideas with Rushfields Plant Centre in Poynings, they donated the bench! The attractive wooden fencing was reduced on request at AVS Fencing in Woodmancote and put up by Helen and Mike. Helen also planted the flower border and watered it through the driest summer.They were often spotted carrying watering cans down the street after a day’s work. Swains Farm Shop and Garden Centre in Woodmancote offered new turf and more next spring if needed.

People have asked who carved the beautiful lettering on the new bench. This was carved by cabinet maker Peter Jones of Nettledown. He also oiled it and delivered it ready for our shared pleasure.

Do please sit there and enjoy the view and the garden and perhaps be greeted by a passer-by. Or join the many village people who weed and paint and carry to keep the village hall going.

Gill Milner, Old Post Office