Our meeting in May was held at Woodstock. Sian Newland, our local policewoman, came to speak to us. Sian with a small team of other officers is responsible for our village and an area around Stockbridge, The Wallops and beyond. Some of our members found it hard to believe that someone so young and energetic was in fact a police officer. Sian told us how her job as a beat officer has changed over the years, areas have been enlarged and resources reduced. She remains confident that we should be able to make contact with a police officer at any time even if we had to speak to someone at central control in Netley.

We heard some amusing stories that have arisen in her work. Sian was able to assure us of the dedication of our police and also indicated ways in which we can help keep ourselves and our property safe. The key word in safety is vigilance and keeping an eye out for our neighbours. In essence that is what Neighbourhood Watch is all about. In Longparish we have an advantage over many other areas as we know our neighbours. Should we feel threatened or worried about a matter of safety there never need be any hesitation in ringing 999 for an immediate response.

In June our members visited the refurbished Theatre Royal at Winchester to see a production of Die Fledermaus produced by the Winchester Operatic Society.

This year Jane Young will be co ordinating the Wives Group who will as usual be supplying and serving teas at the Fete. Just in case it has slipped your mind, this year's fete is at the Cricket Field on July 13th.

On July 18th at 7.30 in the village hall Wendy Wood from Kenya Aid is coming to speak to us and show us some crafts from Kenya. A warm welcome is extended to everyone interested in the work and craft produced by this charity.

White Windows garden open Mrs Jane Sterndale-Bennett is opening her garden at White Windows on behalf of the National Gardens Scheme on Sunday, 21 July from 2-6pm when teas will be available and on Monday 22 July 2-6pm, no teas. Jane specializes in hardy perennials planted to provide interest all the year round. She is past chairman of the Hardy Plant Society and her delightful garden has been featured in books, articles and TV programmes.