• A recent two day exhibition in the Mission Hall entitled Painting for Pleasure was a marvellous showcase for the artistic talents of a group of local ladies. The title might have been meant to apply to the ladies themselves who obviously enjoy their painting, but the varied pictures on display were certainly a pleasure to behold. Pat Bellis, Pat Haine, Judy Backwell, Dot Emblen, Judy Willis, Maureen Morris, Pat Dawson-Harris, Maureen Crib, Sara Knight, Caroline Crisp, Evelyn Donnelly, Linda Walsh, Barbara Harrison, Inger Barnes, Anne and Elaine all had reason to be proud of their interpretation of a wide range of subjects and styles - still life, village scenes, acrylic, botanical and much more. There even were monkeys in charcoal and close up of a cow, bravely produced by Anne, which made me laugh out loud. With tea and homemade cakes to enjoy this really was an afternoon to savour. The group meet in the Mission Hall every Friday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm. Every fourth week a guest artist attends. If you would like to know more, give Judy a call (833349).

• On Saturday 29 June the Four Halls Garden Party will take place in the Rectory Garden (off Sutton Road by the Scutt Hall DT3 6BX) between 11am and 3pm. There will be lots to do for all the family with hours of entertainment for everyone, especially the children. Crafts and Arts (indoors) will be on display and you might have the chance to try some hands on art yourself, plus many and varied stalls selling cakes, plants, bric-a-brac and much more. Cream teas and other refreshments will be available all day – last time I enjoyed a burger and a pint and Andy Nineham’s conjuring, really meant for the children! Entry is only £1 and children are free. Funds raised will be split between Scutt Hall, Preston Village Hall, Mission Hall and Church Rooms. See you there.

• I am reliably informed that the question of allowing vehicles to use the tracks above Sutton Poyntz will be on the agenda for the DCC Roads and Rights of Way Committee meeting of Monday 1 July. Let’s hope that the application is rejected.