A PACKED congregation listened to former Portesham vicar Rev Roy Wyatt describe himself as “bookends” to Jack Elwin’s ministry, as he spoke warmly at the special service to thank Jack for his many years of service here at St Peter’s.

Friends from Abbotsbury and Langton Herring joined the congregation for this special united benefice communion and more warm words and thanks were given by Richard Jefferis and Margaret Connolly to both Jack and Ann on Jack’s retirement.

A magnificent cake with an edible picture of Jack on the front was shared as many people stayed after the service to add their thanks.

A REMINDER that our PCSO, Sarah Pilcher, hopes to be in attendance at the village hall coffee shop on Tuesday, 7 June from 1030 – 1130 am.

Weymouth Concert Brass will be performing at a special concert to mark the 90th anniversary of the formation of the Royal British Legion on Friday, 10 June, 7.30pm at Portesham village hall.

There will be a raffle and the RBL women’s section Abbotsbury and Portesham branch will be serving refreshments in the interval.

Tickets are £6.50 and available from any Abbotsbury and Portesham branch committee member or 3 Frys Close, Portesham – 871346.

Any proceeds will be shared between the RBL poppy appeal and the women’s section benevolent trust.

LOCAL author Joy Reid is hosting a party to celebrate the launch of her latest book on Saturday, 11 June, 6-8pm at Portesham village hall.

Signed books and refreshments will be available.

THE annual Portesham WI outing will be to Wilton House and Salisbury on Tuesday, 14 June. There will be free time either to shop or visit the flower festival at the Cathedral where several ladies from the village, representing St Peter’s church, will have arrangements on display.

The coach will leave the village hall car park at 0930 am.

DON’T forget the school community lunch on Thursday, 16 June, 1 pm at Portesham primary school.

The freshly prepared menu will consist of roast beef with all the trimmings followed by cherry and almond crumble and custard and costs £5 per adult.

Order forms available from the school office and soon from the village hall.