DEVELOPMENT: Most Chineham residents look upon the intensification of housing in the area as generally a bad thing.

However, it does bring the modest benefit of some extra money to improve local facilities.

Such developments as the replacement of the Q8 petrol station have resulted in funds being available to enhance some local play areas.

Consultation will now take place for schemes such as enhancement of the Simon's Road play area.

It also appears that it will be possible to provide the long-awaited kick-about facility adjacent to Simon's Close and enhancement to the facilities at Meadowland, especially addressing the problem of reductions in dogs' mess and litter.

READING Road: Some residents have been querying why the southern end of Reading Road has been dug up yet again.

This work relates to providing a surface water sewer to service the new Upper Stroud Close development.

It is not yet clear whether this will also help to alleviate some of the flooding problems in the same stretch of road.

CHRIST Church, Reading Road, seasonal events: A crib service takes place today, at 4.30pm.

Later on this evening there will be a Midnight Communion, which will start at 11.15pm.

The Christmas Day service begins at 10.30am.

DECEMBER'S entertainment programme for Chineham Village Club: Tonight, members might like to be ready for an evening of partying at the club's Christmas Eve family night!

Entertainment will be provided by Chris Ashford, kicking off at 8pm.

On New Year's Eve, the club is hosting a party.

There will be a buffet, and entertainment provided throughout the evening.

Tickets are available to members only.

MOBILE library: Will be in Chineham Village Hall car park between 4pm and 4.20pm on Thursday.