DESPITE some of the horrors occurring on the other side of the globe, I do hope all readers had a splendid festive season and that 2005 will turn out to be a rather better year for Chineham and the world.

So, happy New Year to all readers of this column.

PARISH council: The first meeting of 2005 takes place in Chineham Village Hall today.

As ever, residents of Chineham are welcome to come and share their thoughts on local issues with the parish council, and will have an opportunity to speak at about 8pm.

The borough council will be holding a consultation day on Wednesday, January 19, from 10.30am to 3.30pm, in Chineham Village Hall car park, to share with residents the details of proposed enhancements to some play areas, and ideas for the long-awaited kickabout area near Simons Close.

It is really important to use this opportunity to find out what is intended, and then to express your views, positive or negative.

EVENTS: Competing with the Chineham Parish Council meeting is bingo in the lounge bar at Chineham Village Club on Monday, from 8.30pm.

On Wednesday, the fellowship group meets at Christ Church, at 9.45am.

L'cole Franaise sessions are starting again this week. Call 352434 for more information.

On Thursday, the mobile library will be in the village hall car park, from 4pm to 4.20pm.