REEL success: The annual Ellisfield barbecue has always been one of the village's most important summer events.

Being linked - as it was for the first time on Saturday, July 17 - to an evening of Scottish dancing moved it into the premier league. It was a great day.

"Wonderful" was the word used to describe it to me, as I was at a reunion in Bristol.

This is what I was told: "The weather was kind and the pig roast was wonderful, so thanks to Mick Lunn and his team. The food was wonderful, so thanks to Jane and her team.

"Everyone joined in the Scottish dancing, and Bernard, who volunteered to teach residents with the help of Caroline, ensured it was an excellent evening."

I'm very sorry I missed it.

BIG Wheel 10: Hordes of cyclists pedalled or pushed their bikes up Fox Hill on Sunday, July 18, as part of the "Big Wheel 10" sponsored ride in aid of St Michael's Hospice.

For the first time, I believe, Ellisfield was on one of the three routes.

Hospice president Hilary de Ferranti must be very pleased with the event.

Fundraiser Vivienne Woolston-Bass reports a "phenomenal response, with 1,130 cyclists taking part".

WENT to mow: There are four unfilled slots to mow lower common and the burial ground and so far no one at all, I'm told, has volunteered to mow the old gravel pits. Speak to any member of the volunteer group committee.

MAST check: Tim Guinness and Paul Turner are the people who know how matters stand on the College Lane mast.