CONCERT - Pilleth Church Restoration Fund has benefited by £200 from a choral concert by the Dolau Mixtures and Prestgang Children's Choir. It was held at the Assembly Rooms and directed by Marion Rowlatt.

RURAL STRESS - Some members of Presteigne Community Support committee have been increasingly concerned by the increase of personal stress within rural communities, particularly by farmers and their families, but also by those affected by economic difficulties.The committee decided to support an initiative which could lead to developing a local help network, and as a first step were planning to meet with workers experienced in the field of rural stress. They hope to investigate the possibilities, and in due course to invite more interest and support.

BRYAN'S GROUND - During the next few weeks a remarkable display of new irises can be viewed in the gardens of Bryan's Ground. Some 10,000 Siberian irises, propagated by Simon Dorrell and David Wheeler, who own Bryan's Ground, are coming into flower for the first time, and many garden enthusiasts will be keen to see them. Bryan's Ground is open at weekends throughout the summer, on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays from 2pm until 5pm. Teas are available and there is ample car parking.

DAY CENTRE - The trustees management committee of East Radnorshire Day Centre heard that the former caretaker's house near the centre was likely to be made available by Powys County Council. Although the legal and financial details had not yet been received, the trustees considered it time appoint a sub-committee for the expansion programme. Chairman Evelyn Davies and three other trustees agreed to serve on it, with power to co-opt for special expertise as necessary. In line with local authority charges, the centre charges were also being raised by a small amount. Vicki Ball said the clients considered they represented good value and transport provided by a local taxi firm came in for particular praise. The annual meeting of the centre was planned for June 19 at 7pm and the public will be welcome. The centre was caring for clients from community council areas from all over East Radnorshire.

CHAMBER OF TRADE - The annual dinner at the Bull Hotel was presided over by the new chairman Joyce Pitts, and attended by a large number of members. Guest speaker was Emma Conway, standing in for Tania Parry who had to cancel, and she gave an interesting review of tourism in South Powys. She particularly mentioned the Judge's Lodging, which had proved a valuable visitor attraction.

BUSINESS EXPANSION - Joyce Pitts, who had built a successful business of locally knitted classic woollens at her High Street shop Woollies, was now expanding her outlets and the ranges of garments. She would divide her time between the shop and travelling to Brecon where she would direct a team of six machine knitters, all ladies from the farming community.