FIRSTLY, may I take this opportunity to say a big thank you to Patrick Russell, who has been doing this column in my absence – he’s done a splendid job.

One of the first things I do each week before writing this item is to check the village website for news, and I noticed this morning that the village hall committee is still looking for new members.

A great deal of time and energy has been spent over the last few years in renovating the building and making the facilities a very useful village resource – that most of us take advantage of at one time or another.

However, the committee does need some new members; particularly someone to take over the role of either the treasurer or the secretary (a current member is happy to do either, but not both!).

Do give it some thought, and if you think you might be interested in getting involved (one meeting a month), please contact Jenny Close on 567895 to have a chat about either role.

A St George’s Day dinner in the village seems to have become an annual event and this year is due to take place on Friday, April 27, at the Brewers Arms.

All profits will go to the charity The Malvern Hills Community Foundation, who are as usual, organising the evening.

If you are interested in attending please contact Sue at the Brewers (568147) – the menu is also on display in the pub if you are keen to see what’s on offer!

You may or may not be aware, but each of your district councillors has been allocated up to £1,000 to spend in supporting worthwhile community initiatives.

Councillors Luna Deller (578430 or luna.deller@malvernhills.gov.uk) and John Raine (565052 or john.raine@malvernhills.gov.uk) are keen to hear of any ideas you may have about how this money can be used effectively by any local groups, projects etc.

Obviously any amounts received would not be large, but could make all the difference; so it’s well worth putting forward some suggestions.