December and Christmas is just round the corner.   Panic . . . cakes, puddings, presents, cards to organise!

        Once again your Christmas messages sent via the Newsletter will boost both its funds and those of the Manor Hall.    Thank you. Thank you, too, to Debbie for her borders [and teddies] to enhance the messages, also for the wrap-round winter scene cover.

        Congratulations to Isabel and Tolly for their delightful Christmas cards that accompany the News from the Primary School.

        Since the last issue I was delighted to hear from Mike Cottee, who many of you will no doubt remember.   Mike was born in Combe Martin and says:  "I worked for the late Claude Richards in the late '60's and early '70's . . . mainly at Hammonds Farm but on occasions did the milk round in Berrynarbor. I sometimes felt more at home in Berry than I did in Combe Martin."    He was pleased to see that the community spirit in the village is alive and well and remembers, with pleasure, working with Ron Toms, 'a very kind and gentle man'.

        I was sorry to read in the paper, following Walter's article on Gold Hill, Shaftsbury, that it is now on the 'slippery slope' and crumbling due to dispute regarding its responsibility between the Town and County Councils. 

        A warm welcome to all newcomers [and some returning] to the village, we hope you will be happy here. And a 'Get Well' message to anyone not feeling at their best just now - we hope you feel better soon.

        Thinking beyond Christmas, the next issue will be February 2010, the year when the Newsletter will come of age!   Items for February will be welcome as soon as possible and by Thursday, 14th January at the latest please.   February is also time for finances.   With ever-increasing prices, from February, I am afraid advertising charges will be going up:  £5 per ¼ page [£25 for 6 issues] and £10 per ½ page [£40 for 6 issues].

        My sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed not only to this issue but throughout the year and to all readers for your continued support.

        My best wishes to you all, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Peaceful New Year.

Judie