THIS weekend, West Malvern will celebrate two much-loved, if very different, personalities. In the 21st century, the nation-wide outpouring of affection for the Queen - a hereditary monarch! – as she reaches 90 has been quite remarkable. And of course The West will not be left behind in paying its own tribute.

This will take the form of a Queen’s Tea Party from 3pm-5pm this Sunday June 12th. Together with St James’s Church, and several local groups and organisations, Malvern Hills Elim Church, will generous host a large picnic, with fun, swimming, games and a bouncy castle. Entry (free) will be through the main gates of the Elim International Centre on De Walden Road.

Hot and cold drinks, home-made cakes, scones and jam and other good things will beon sale, or you can bring your own picnic. The Sugarloaf Café shop will also be open for sale of ice-creams etc. It should be a memorable occasion.

The other event on Sunday is the annual cricket match in memory of late Andy Dakin, who died four years ago and is remembered with real warmth by all who knew him for his good humour and many contributions to the West Malvern community. Andy played a major part in creating the Cricket Club's ground at Mathon Court, where the match, arranged by his family who still contribute so much to village life, will start at 1pm. The overlap of times with the Queen's Tea Party is a pity, but it should be perfectly possible to attend both these events and make an afternoon of it!

Finally, tomorrow (Saturday) will see another Fun Night at the Royal British Legion Club in Lower Road, starting at 8.30pm. There will be the usual mix of skittles, bingo, a raffle, free food and - wait for it! - a game of Killer! As always, everyone will be welcome.

COLIN JACKSON