Volunteers of Gretton Youth Group and the youngsters were delighted to receive a grant from Corby Borough Council.

Children and young people who attended were asked for suggestions as to what the money should be spent on and so have bought a Wii with some games including guitar hero. These will be available for the next meeting. The volunteer youth workers will also purchase some more arts and crafts materials and sports equipment.

There is an urgent need for more adults to volunteer their time to the group. The group needs helpers over the age of 18 to give about four hours a month to keep the sessions going. Children and young people really enjoy their time at the sports club playing games, listening to music, doing arts and crafts. Now the days are longer the club will use the recreation ground to play sports. It is the only opportunity for them to attend a youth club in the village and so they need your help.

A CRB police check will be made, but otherwise the club only require a desire to support the club and keep it going in the future.

For more information about volunteering call Sara on 01536 771449 or Cinzia on 01536 770728.

Dates of the group over the next few months are Thursdays, May 7, 21, June 4, 18, July 16, 30.


WI

Gretton Women's Institute met on Tuesday April 14, and welcomed three visitors. Speaker for the evening was Graham Worrell, from the Woodland Trust, who gave a fascinating talk with slides of the wildlife in local woods. With spring upon us, members were motivated to get out and explore the countryside more. Carol Wheeler gave the vote of thanks and Ailsa Dempster won the raffle.

The next meeting will be Tuesday May 12, at 7.30pm in the village hall when the speaker will be from The Samaritans. Please go along and join them.


Stickholders

The April issue of Gretton Association of Stickholders Tin and Lightermen newsletter recounts their visit to Stamford for the Easter egg hunt, when 40 members made the trip.

Many thanks to William Lawson for his prompt and competitive service thus enabling a brilliant day out. Tea and biscuits were served at headquarters on return.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary there was a formal Stick inspection and awards were presented in various categories, the winners were: longest stick, Big Bob; Straightest Stick - Barrie C, Crookedist Stick - Allan C, Stick with most original design, Stewart F; most eye catching, BlueBell Jimmy.

Many thanks to all members for their continued interest and input. Forms are available in the BlueBell regarding information on membership.


Church services

St James Church, Family Service at 9am; Parish Communion at 10.30am.
Baptist Chapel, Morning Service at 10.45am; Evening Service at 6pm.
Gretton Fellowship meet at the Village Hall at 5pm.


Scottish entertainment

Sunday April 26, there is a rare opportunity to see one of Scotlands premier traditional bands, The Tannahill Weavers. A mix of topical songs and ballads for young and old alike. The music starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from the post office.


Parish council

The next meeting of the parish council will be May 11 in the village hall at 7.30pm. Residents are welcome to add items to the agenda, please contact the Clerk - John Hindle 770580.


Paddock park

The Paddock Park is maintained by a group of volunteers who spend a few hours once a month working together. New volunteers are always welcome, the next workday is on Saturday May 2, from 9.30am. There is also a monthly social meet in the Hatton Arms. For more information contact Bob Dobson 770734


Monthly lunch

The village hall has its next monthly lunch on Tuesday May 5 at 12.30pm. Freshly prepared food for just £3.50 per serving. There is also an optional raffle. Proceeds to the hall's refurbishment.