• A RECENT organised morning walk climbed up from Sutton Poyntz to Margaret’s seat, along the ridge to Osmington and back for a brunch in the Mission Hall in aid of breast cancer charity.

Later in the morning those less energetic, less able or injured, like me (well, that’s my excuse), went straight to the Hall to join them.

There the ‘Gnomes’ worked very hard producing a range of starters, kedgeree, croissant and jam or bacon and cheese baps – enough to satisfy the most hearty appetite.

Such was the demand that a fifteen strong party led by Richard Backwell ate outside in the Mission Hall garden.

Over £1000 was raised for charity, and this marvellous result is a tribute to the generosity of those who attended and especially the hard work of those that produced such a lovely meal.

  • Jon Hennessy tells me that he is organising a birthday party for his mother, Betty Hennessy, on Saturday 2nd May and wonders if any close friends would like to attend.

Various invites have been sent out, but he is sure she would welcome people dropping in to say hell, and if they brought a bottle of something to help celebrate then so much the better!

They will be accepting donations to Help for Hero's campaign and for Headley Court where Jon’s brother has spent a long time recovering after his near fatal motorbike accident. Ring Jon on 0777 648 7826 for further information.

  • AT THEIR last meeting the Preston cum Sutton Poyntz WI had just a taste of India – literally, for Nora Arnold gave a demonstration of Indian cookery.

Members were invited to write a monologue on the WI as an entry for the Lady Denman Cup, and to bake cakes for the Bestival at Lulworth and the County Show.

The fairy cake competition was won by Gayl Salt and the flower of the month went to Peggy Pressely.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 6 May at 2.15pm in the Village Hall. Visitors are always warmly welcomed.

  • YOUNG Lindsey Maton is well known in Preston, not least for her appearances as the thigh slapping principal boy in our local pantomime over a number of years.

Lindsey has now volunteered to spend her university gap year teaching deprived children in India, helped by the charity Project Trust.

She has to raise £4,600, and, with the help of parents Ali and Steve, has set about this by organising a charity curry and race night.

This will take place on Saturday 16 May in the Village Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 for adults and £6 for children under 16.

There will be a horse racing DVD plus tombola and auction, and you are invited to bring your own drink along – it can be thirsty work!

If you would like to support Lindsey on what promises to be a fun filled evening, ring 816255 to reserve your tickets.