WHAT a weekend that was!

The year's warmest weather greeted the main day of the Arts Festival on Saturday, which saw the upper reaches of West Malvern Road bustling with visitors to the exhibits at the Elim College, in St James's Church and all points to the Brewers Arms. As well as the work of around 60 artists, they could also enjoy classical music from the Korngold Duo, singing from the West Malvern Voices and folk from Set 'Em Up Joe. Meanwhile, down at the Village Hall, the Garden Club's annual show was also taking place. Members were delighted that President Lionel Butcher, who has been in poor health, was on hand to present the prizes to club stalwarts including Chantal Crawford, Lynn Clearwaters and Kathy Frampton - also that Lionel's predecessor Eric Hollands had returned with his wife Rita from their exile in Barnards Green to catch up with old friends. The day ended with a spectacular thunderstorm which dropped around ¾in of rain in 10 minutes and blew down the marquee on the green above the Brewers - from which, luckily, all the art works had been removed in the nick of time.

The pace of activity in the village continues at a high level. Next Thursday, September 3 will see the hardworking Village Hall committee stage their Macmillan Coffee Morning in the Village Hall. from 10.30am to noon. There will be delicious coffee and cakes; a white elephant tombola stall, competitions and surprises! Do try to come and along and support this worthy event. Anyone able to donate cakes or articles for the tombola should contact either Jen Close 567895 or Chan Crawford 568474.

The Royal British Legion will be holding two events next week at its Lower Road Club . This Monday, August 31 from 2pm-9pm, there will be a free barbecue, with skittles, darts, a raffle and bingo plus suitable light entertainment for the Bank Holiday. And next Friday, September 4, from 7.30pm-10.30pm will see a quiz with a £50 first prize, a barbecue and a good raffle - all to raise funds for the church organ fund. Admission (to include food) £5 per person. As well as full teams, individuals will be welcome to make up quiz teams on the night. Enquiries to Richard Hammond on 07432 386378.

Finally, next Saturday evening from 5pm September 5 will see a bitter-sweet occasion at the Brewers Arms – a farewell party for Sue Adamson who with her partner the late and much lamented Trevor Marston have been such wonderful hosts at what is now our West Malvern's only pub. There will be music (“and whatever” - Sue!), with the West Malvern Voices at performing at 6pm. There will be no food on sale, but people will be welcome to bring their own picnics. Lets's give Sue a good send off!

COLIN JACKSON 01684 577604