HARVEST time: St James' Church was beautifully decorated for Harvest Sunday.

Hops twinned the screen and apples, berries and bright red creepers filled the shelves.

There were huge pumpkins and marrows, nuts and grapes, together with flowers in autumn shades.

The Beavers group were on parade and the children took their harvest gifts to the sanctuary before the service began.

After the service, everyone went to Cross House for tea and coffee followed by a lovely harvest lunch.

There was a sale of produce and what remained went to May Place Hostel for the homeless.

UPSTAIRS - downstairs: Bramley cricket pavilion, at Clift Meadow, was full, for the talk by Brian Spicer.

Sherfield-on-Loddon group of National Women's Register joined with the Bramley group, and visitors from Basingstoke, to hear Mr Spicer speak of his years as agent for the Hackwood Estate.

He described the house and relationship between the owners Lord and Lady Camrose and the staff, in-house, and out, on the estate.

Mr Spicer showed photographs, maps and even a catalogue from 1998 when the estates and valuable contents were sold.

There was tremendous interest, and a vote of thanks was given, after which, Mr Spicer answered the many questions arising from his talk.

PARISH council: There are always small repair jobs for which the council is responsible and would like to hear from a handyman who would undertake these.

If you can help, the clerk will be pleased to hear from you.

A litter-picker is also needed to work a few hours a week to try to keep the village clear of rubbish.

Call 881420 for more information.