n Methodist News: Bishop's Castle Methodists made an early start with their Advent and Christmas programme, using the theme Get Ready To Get Going!

The morning service on Stir up Sunday was conducted by Mr Wilf Overton.

Afterwards coffee was served in the hall, with Miss Hilary Morgan as steward.

Everyone helped to stir the Christmas pudding mix, ready for the church's Christmas lunch. Wilf reminded them of various traditions connected with this task.

There was no evening service, and so one or two members joined friends at Hyssington for their service.

Final preparations are being made for the Circuit Christmas fair, due to be held in the Methodist Hall on Saturday, December 4.

It is to be opened at 2pm by the town's Mayor, Jane Carroll.

There will be a variety of stalls, activities for children, and teas will be served.

This is the first Christmas fair since Bishop's Castle became part of the new Marches Circuit. Proceeds are for Circuit funds.

n DEATH: The death of Peter Williams, a prominent business man in Bishop's Castle, who died in a Birmingham hospital on November 5, aged 49, came as a great shock to his family and very many friends in the town.

Peter leaves his mother, a brother, and three children (two living in Australia). His father died several years ago. The funeral was held at Bishop's Castle Parish Church on Wednesday.

n COFFEE MORNING: Coffee and chat continue on Fridays, in the Methodist Hall, Station Street from 10.30am until noon. Everyone welcome, proceeds for charities.

n ABBEYFIELD HOUSE: An enjoyable coffee morning was held at Abbeyfield House on Thursday, the last in 2004. Look out for 2005 dates.