CHRISTMAS WORSHIP -- Christmas services at Presteigne's churches were extremely well attended, the ranks of regular worshippers being increased by many others perhaps concerned or even personally affected by the exceptional hardships and anxieties of the past year, both in this country and across the world. At St Andrew's Church a joint service with Methodists and Anglicans on December 23 was conducted by Lay Pastor Les Beers, and on Christmas Eve the Crib Service was led by the Rev. Kenneth Newbonn, with every one of the large crowd of children carrying a lighted candle. The Archdeacon of the Hereford Diocese, the Very Rev. Michael Hooper, conducted the Midnight Eucharist, and the officiant on Christmas Day was the Rev. Peter Matthews. The Candlelit Carol Service at the Baptist Church, with music by Knighton Town Band, attracted very large numbers. At the Catholic Church, Mass on Christmas Day was concelebrated by Father Tim Maloney and Father Paul Emmett, and many parishioners stayed on afterwards to enjoy a social gathering over refreshments. Owing to the sudden illness of Lay Pastor Leslie Beers, the Christmas Day Service at the Methodist Church was conducted by Frank Hooley.

BROWNIES -- The 2nd Presteigne Brownies are looking forward to starting the New Year with their new Brown Owl. The Rev. Suzanne Roberts has been appointed to take over from their popular Brown Owl, Kitty Bradley who has led the pack for several years. The Brownies were sad to say goodbye to Kitty, who with her husband Tony will shortly be moving away to the East Midlands. Suzanne has already been acting as assistant to Kitty so all the Brownies know her well and will be enjoying lots of activities in the coming year. Their first meeting will take place on Wednesday, January 16 at the Youth Centre, 5.45-7.15pm. For details contact 267339.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT -- Presteigne Assembly Rooms was the scene of a seasonal 'party treat' organised by Mid Border Arts, when a packed audience enjoyed a feast of carols, music, poetry and prose. They joined in enthusiastically with singing various carols, along with the Dolau Mixtures, the adult singers group, and the more youthful Prestgang. All were brilliantly accompanied and directed by Marion Rowlatt. Youngest of the excellent solo performers was seven-year-old Amos Rock-Davidson, who played the recorder with amazing self-confidence, skill and enjoyment, not at all daunted by such a large gathering. The Mummers Play was enacted by a group of young people in the traditional folk style with splendid costumes and mock fights, and symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Members of Presteigne Writers Group contributed evocative poetry and prose, Chris Rowlatt read an amusing Father Christmas story, and a fascinating old carol was beautifully read by Barbara Neal. Everyone enjoyed the festive refreshments in the intervals and the audience warmly applauded the wealth of talent both young and old, displayed with such enthusiasm and energy. Specially praised has been Marion Rowlatt, whose sheer dedication and rare ability to inspire her family of students and draw out their musical abilities, contributes so much to Presteigne and district. Over the years her own beautiful singing voice has delighted so many local people. A member of the audience summed up later: "A memorable evening of seasonal celebration for everyone. The theme of many of the poems and carols is vital and relevant to our present war-torn world with its innocent victims of conflict and strife: Peace on earth and goodwill to all. We must hope and work for a more peaceful New Year."