• I got on the No. 4 bus at Overcombe Corner recently, but it didn’t move off for three minutes, despite nobody else boarding. I then alighted at Chalbury Corner, and by the time I had walked to Wyke Oliver Road, 2 or 3 minutes later, it was still idling at the bus stop! In that 4 or 5 minutes it could have travelled along Oakbury Drive, using no more diesel than idling at the bus stops. I have also been told that the service quite often waits at the bottom of Seven Acres Road. If you feel that the bus route along Oakbury Drive should be reinstated, and I know that well over 200 people felt strongly enough about this matter to email David Mannings, then he tells me that the person to email with your concerns is the local First manager Mark Williams, who can be reached on Mark.Williams@firstgroup.com You could also write to the First Customer Service Department, Empress Road, Southampton, SO14 0JW. Let them know what you think about the route change, which adversely affects a great number of potential passengers.

• The Scout & Guide Spring Jumble Sale in the Scutt Hall was a great success. Betty Hennessey tells me that they raised just over £580 which will go towards the upkeep and repair of the Hall, used by so many youngsters. She would like to thank everyone who donated items that they could sell, everyone who helped prepare for the event and those who turned out on the day to make sure everything ran smoothly. I think that Betty herself also deserves a big “thank you”, for she has worked tirelessly over many years for the benefit of our local youngsters.

• Barbara Mills reports that the Abbeyfield Society Coffee Morning was very successful despite the atrocious weather. All the proceeds will go towards the Residents Amenities Fund, and will provide them with much enjoyment in the months to come. Barbara says that they are very grateful to everyone who attended and made the morning so enjoyable.

• The next Team Walk takes place this coming Saturday, 20 April, starting from St Laurence Church Car Park, Upwey at 1.30pm. The route will be about three miles long and sensible footwear is recommended. To enjoy a pleasant afternoon walk in good company in some beautiful Dorset scenery then do go along. Further details are available from Joan on 812818.