• The Spring and Autumn Jumble Sales in the Scutt Hall are two of the prime fund raising activities for the Weymouth East Scouts and Guides. For as many years as I can remember they have been organised by Betty Hennessey, and she and her loyal band of helpers have raised many thousands of pounds in that time. Recently Betty has been finding it increasingly difficult to carry out the work. However she contacted me the other day to say how delighted and relieved she was that Mo and Dave Martin have volunteered to take on the task. They are to be commended for their public spirited response to a real need in the community, and I am sure everyone will give them all possible support. The Autumn Jumble sale will take place on Saturday 1 October, so put the date in your diary. In the meantime they would be grateful for any saleable items that you might care to donate. If you were thinking of clearing out that packed wardrobe, cupboard or groaning loft then now is the time. Gather the items together and ring Mo & Dave (836332) or Betty (833614), who will be happy to explain when the Scutt Hall is open for deliveries. Your support will help to maintain the Hall for the benefit of all our local youngsters.

• In the 14 days between Tuesday 26 August and Monday 8 September the Police reported 10 thefts from property/motor vehicles in the Preston/Sutton Poyntz area. Since then all has been quiet. I am quite sure that there are all sorts of possible causes for this spate of criminal activity, and it would be is intriguing to speculate on what these might be. Not of course, that I intend to do so!

• Questions have been asked, as they are every year, about the real reason for the many noisy flocks of overflying geese. After reporting many theories, the RSPB provided me with the answer some years ago. The geese have a migratory instinct, and whilst they do not now fly away to distant parts, they still get the urge get away for a while. They don't go very far, and usually fly in a large circle to arrive back where they started. A bit like teenagers - you think they've left home then they come back to live with you!