REFLECTION: As the end of the year approaches, this is how Sherfield people remember 2004:

Kathleen Gaiger said: "We remember our achievements, particularly participation in the Village of the Year competition; new friends we have made, and old friends we miss, who will be remembered and toasted at our New Year lunch. Happy New Year to all from the WI."

Gill Austin said: "My 2004 top achievement is the commitment to the Calor Village of the Year competition. Hopefully a repeat of this, at the 2005 village fete, will help the church spire repairs."

Fred Berntsen remembered: "Loddon Sports being presented with the FA Charter Standard Award by John Ward, chairman of Hampshire FA. Attending the 60th anniversary of Operation Market Garden at Arnhem, with my son, Ashley, in September."

Sandy Johnston commented: "I enjoyed another successful village fete, a highlight of which was the arrival and departure of the Chinook."

Donald Dawson said: "St Leonard's Church has welcomed new members as it and the production of the Loddon Valley Link has increased to supply copies to the new houses in the village, especially in Sherfield Park."

Bruce Batting said: "Winning Hampshire Village of the Year was very special and it was wonderful to see such pride when the Hampshire dignitaries came to the official presentation, hosted by us in September."

Lucy Marshall said: "Nobody will be surprised by this - Sherfield winning Hampshire Village of the Year and then topping it by winning Best Village in the South and South East England."

Gill Fearon's highlights were: "Ayckbourn's Bedroom Farce, when Chris had a surprise part; our NWR Indian Evening; Annette Hill's talk on being a ferry pilot and, personally, getting rid of Tetra!"

Peggy Hutchins said: "Happy Faces had a very successful 2004 which brought a brilliant Ofsted report. We had a lovely Christmas party and annual nativity, enjoyed by all."

Jacqui Skillett said: "The 0-5s waved goodbye to members who moved overseas, and welcomed new arrivals. We had a happy year, a great Christmas party and will return on Tuesday, January 11, at 1.30pm. We look forward to seeing you then."

HAPPY New Year from all in Sherfield-on-Loddon - the Hampshire Village of the Year!