VILLAGE FETE - Takes place on August 18, with a fun pet dog show (entries £1 on the day), scarecrow competition based on a nursery rhyme and car boot sale at £5 (please call 01544 340645 to book space). Donations for stalls are welcomed - books, bric-a-brac, bottles, cakes, plants. Further details to follow.

OPEN GARDENS - August 17, 11am to 6pm. As part of the Almeley village weekend, the open gardens will feature at least 12 gardens in and around the village - some large, some small, some from previous years, some new additions. The list includes The Old Villa, Corner House, Stonewell Cottage, Demesne, Newport House, Station View Farm, The Friends’ Meeting House, Manor Cottage, Batch Cottage, 1 Church Terrace, Demesne and Clarkesfield at The Meer, Woonton.

All this will be thirsty (not to mention hungry) work and refreshments will be available throughout the day at St Mary’s church, as will the maps and entrance tickets. Tickets and refreshments will not be available at the individual gardens.

Tickets/maps will be £5 and accompanied children are free.

No dogs please.