GARDENS -- Batch Cottage, Almeley, the home of Mr and Mrs Jeremy Russell will be open to the public on Sunday, May 18, from 2-5.30pm. Admission is £2.50. It is regretted that no dogs are allowed to visit the property. These gardens will also be open on Sunday, June 8, and Sunday, July 13.

CINEMA -- Flicks in the Sticks cinema will be in Almeley Village Hall on Thursday, May 29, the film 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding' will start at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced at £3 and £2.

CHURCH -- Almeley bell-ringers and friends had a most interesting day when they visited the bell foundry at Taylor's in Loughborough in April. The Almeley bell will not be used for some time, but it is hoped that it will be in place for the Harvest Festival. Practices are currently at Eardisley only on Fridays. More information can be obtained from Sandra Payne, 01544 3406454, and John Hope, 01544 340276. The drainage pipe for the kitchen and loo project has been laid and tenders are now awaited for the internal work. To date the project is still short of between £2-3,000, so any contributions to this fund would be greatly appreciated. The appeals co-ordinator is Jeremy Russell, Batch Cottage, Almeley, 01544 327469.