These PCSOs (Police Community Support Officers) have just sorted out a couple of cowboys who pulled up opposite the War Memorial. The Cowboys needed directions to the Abbey Buildings.

PCSOs have become a common sight, particularly in the town centre. A new web site can tell you all about them. Their locally defined priorities are to tackle

1. Anti-social behaviour
2. Gangs of young people
3. Underage drinking

Nothing about sorting out Cowboys!!!

To find out more …

At Preston Road Community Centre last night was rabbit racing. It was put on to raise money for respite care for children with severe illnesses – the appeal is dedicated to Rosie who had a brain tumour.

The evening was organised by the Buffs (The Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes).

The Town Crier came today to announce the opening of the new sweet shop in Stert Street, where Poldeli used to be.

They sell traditional sweets in jars, and packets, and if they have not got the one you want, they will try to order it. They also have locally made chocolates (from Henley), and today were giving away hot chocolate drinks.

Thanks to John for sending this picture of St Michael’s, Park Road. It shows the interior recently cleared of old pews before extensive works to modernise. The pews are to be replaced by chairs – as has already happened in many other churches.

Last Sunday as I passed the Conduit Centre, next to Trinity Church, I heard St Michael’s congregation and cantor singing their mass – the Conduit Centre is their temporary home.

Each Sunday, there are two churches meeting on opposite sides of the Trinity Church lawn. The two congregations will finally join up together as one for the Harvest Festival. As the not so eminent theologian Father Jack Hackett was taught to say: “Yes!” and “That would be an ecumenical matter!“