OLD Basing Festival: The past week has, again, seen the village coming together to enjoy the many pleasures that we have.

The concert and festival preview drew a near-capacity crowd and the church was festooned with a galaxy of flowers.

The weather was just right for the opening of the gardens around the village - there were a few showers and it was not too hot.

THIS weekend: Is a continuation of the Festival of St Mary's.

France comes to Old Basing tomorrow, with a truly continental atmosphere of a traditional boules game.

Those lovely ladies from Le Caf Bienvenu are putting on this sporting occasion. It is for adults and children and will be held in St Mary's churchyard.

The WI is promoting a "Village Trail" with a lovely walk around the village.

THIS Sunday: The Great Old Basing Duck Race really is a spectacle in itself.

These birds are a rare species. How many of you have seen bright yellow ducks with numbers on their bellies?

They will be there, make sure you are. The race starts from Swing Swang Bridge and ends at the Millstone pub. More details in the festival programme.

Don't forget the boot sale in the Millstone car park that starts at 10am.

Basing House will be open all weekend. There will be refreshments in the parish rooms, plants for sale, and the church will be open with a grand flower festival.

Don't forget your festival programme. You will need this for the many places and functions to visit. It is available from the Linden Market at a cost of £5.