ELY Ely Cathedral SERVICES for November 19 - 25 THURSDAY: 7.40am – Morning Prayer; 8am – Holy Communion; midday – 2pm - Ely 900 Service of Celebration; 5.30pm – Evensong. Friday: 7.40am – Morning Prayer; 8am – Holy Communion; 5.30pm – Evensong. Saturda

ELY

Ely Cathedral

SERVICES for November 19 - 25

THURSDAY: 7.40am - Morning Prayer; 8am - Holy Communion; midday - 2pm - Ely 900 Service of Celebration; 5.30pm - Evensong.

Friday: 7.40am - Morning Prayer; 8am - Holy Communion; 5.30pm - Evensong.

Saturday: 7.45am - Holy Communion; 1.30pm - Ely 900 Moving on in Mission event; 5.30pm - Evening Prayer.

Sunday: 8.15am - Holy Communion; 10.30am - Sung Eucharist; 4pm - Evensong.

Monday: 7.40am - Morning Prayer; 8am - Holy Communion; 5.30pm - Evensong.

Tuesday: 7.40am - Morning Prayer; 8am - Holy Communion; 5.30pm - Evensong.

Wednesday: 7.40am - Morning Prayer; 8am - Holy Communion; 5.30pm - Evensong; 7.30pm - USAF Eve of Thanksgiving Service.

St Mary's Church

SUNDAY: 9am - Holy Communion (traditional service) with preacher Piers Coutts; 10.30am - Family Communion (contemporary style) with preacher Piers Coutts; 6.30pm - Prayer Ministry training - all welcome.

INFO: www.elyparishchurch.net or call the church office on 01353 659550.

St Peter's Church

SUNDAY: 9.15am - Sung Eucharist with celebrant and preacher Canon Laurie Blanchard.

Tuesday: 10am - Holy Communion with celebrant Rev Eric Rowland.

The Olive Tree

THE Sunday morning worship included the marking of the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, with news of the plight of many brothers and sisters in other countries. We noted too that pressure and harassment is beginning to restrict Christians in European nations as well, including this one.

Sunday worship at 10.30am This will be our first Africa Sunday, with worship and sharing of news from a number of African nations with which we have links.

On Friday the Open Door Caf� will offer a pleasant setting for meeting and making friends while enjoying refreshments. 10am till midday.

Countess Church

LAST Friday (13) Mike Petty organised a visit from Ely-born Wing Commander Ken Wallis, 93, who gave a talk about his early days in Ely and his wartime exploits in the RAF as a bomber pilot, as well as his adventures in the RAF after the war.

Paul Coghlan led the family service which focused on the role of family particularly for children. A number of young people took part in a drama related to valuing the child and Paul reminded us of the attitude of Jesus in welcoming children. Jasmine and Eloise Booth were welcomed into the church by dedication and their grandfathers read and prayed for them.

In the evening Rev Gordon Lowman spoke on Jehovah Shalom, the Lord is Peace.

This Sunday services are at 10.30am and 6.30pm with Messy Church at 4pm. All are very welcome.

City of Ely Flower Club

THE club held its monthly meeting on November 12 at the City of Ely Community College. The demonstrator was Julie Woods and her theme was 'Christmas Tidings'. A vote of thanks was given by chairman Grace Bent.

Next month, on December 3, an open meeting will be held. The demonstrator will be Nick Grounds of March with the theme 'Christmas Carols'.

All visitors welcome. Tickets available from Grace Bent on 01353 661457 or on the door at the college.

University of The Third Age (U3A)

THE Maltings was the venue for a meeting of the 46 East of England branches of U3A. Representatives from the eastern counties met to discuss and learn about running successful U3As. A new branch is started every week in the UK. The Ely and District branch was started 18 months ago and has more than 300 members.

Meetings are held every month, with a speaker, and there are 30 interest groups which meet either weekly or monthly. These range from mah-jong to walking, art appreciation, bird watching and many more.

U3A is a self-help organisation open to anyone not in full time employment. Members learn new skills, share knowledge and enjoy the social aspects of meeting together. Visits to concerts, gardens, sanctuaries, houses, museums and the theatre are all part of the programme of learning.

INFO: Rob on 01353 778098

Ely Northwold WI

PRESIDENT Rosemary Green was re-elected at the annual meeting of Ely Northwold WI held on November 11. The committee members are Florence Jones, Rose-Marie Lawrence, June Bevan, Lia Conder, Chris Cheale and Christine Dickens.

Two visitors, Daphne Brown and Sharon Owen, were welcomed to the meeting.

This was a 'have a go' evening when members were given the chance to make a Christmas table arrangement assisted by Christine Dickens. There were some very good attempts and instead of an overall winner, members shared a box of chocolates.

Draw prize winners were Sharon Owen, Sue Eden, Brenda Maton, Wendy Barnes, Chris Cheale and June Bevan.

Next month's meeting will be on December 9 at the Cathedral Centre when the speaker will be Geoff Hales who will share Christmas Poetry and Prose. There will be a Christmas buffet and visitors will be welcomed.

Friends of St Mary's Junior School

THE Friends will be holding a Race Night at 7pm on November 20 at the school in High Barns. Tickets are �5 or group tickets for six people �25. Price includes a fish and chip supper (or sausage/vegetarian option). Bring your own drinks.

INFO: Tracy on (01353) 669265 or Kate (01353) 667321.

CHETTISHAM

Parish Church

MORNING Prayer at St Michael and All Angels on Sunday was led by Piers Coutts. The first lesson was read by Robin Aylott and the offertory was presented by Lee Howard.

Sunday Morning Prayer will be held at 9.15am.

HADDENHAM

Baptist Chapel

THE service was conducted by Rev Jim Mullin. David welcomed everyone and gave out the notices. The Home Groups will be on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. The musicians for the morning were June, Eddie, Alan, Josh on the drums and Ruth led the singing. Happy Birthday was sung to Daniel, Lynn and Jonathon. Jim thanked the four kind donors for the new piano. This was followed by prayer. The offering was taken up by Daniel and Rachel. David spoke about "open doors" and about Christians being persecuted in Orisa, India. Prayers followed and a Bible reading, Acts 12 v. 1 to 18. The theme for Jim's sermon was "Let my people go", followed by more prayers and a song. The service closed with Holy Communion. Pauline gave a prayer and we all said Grace together.

Sunday's service will be taken by Rev Jim Mullin.

LITTLEPORT

St George's Church

ON Sunday the vicar presided and preached at the 8am Holy Communion. She also officiated at the 10am Family Service and Baptism when twin boys were received into the church. John Marshall preached at the 10am service.

Sunday: 8am - Holy Communion with the vicar; 10am - Parish Eucharist with the vicar; 6.30pm - Evensong led by Jane Harris with preacher Rev B. Arnold.

Friday: 6pm - Junior Choir Practice; 7.30pm - Senior Choir Practice; 9pm -Compline.

Saturday (28): 10am to 2pm - St George's Christmas Fair.

Sunday (29): 6.30pm - Advent Carol Service.

Tuesday (1): 7.30pm - Littleport Society Christmas Concert.

St John's Methodist Church

SUNDAY: 10.45am - Morning Service with Duncan Palmer. Giving service for Jimmy's Night Shelter; 6.30pm - Evening Service united at St George's with preacher Rev Bernard Arnold.

Sunday (29): 10.45am - Morning Service with Keith Penn; 6.30pm - Evening Service circuit united at Haddenham Methodist Church.

All welcome.

The Vine Community Church

LIVELY, friendly, non-denominational Christian church meeting at The Regal in Hempfield Road.

All welcome at the Sunday services, which begin at 10.30am. Tea and coffee served from 10.15am onwards. Cr�che for the youngest children is open from 10.15am and older children enjoy a separate meeting during the second half of the service. Afterwards, please join us for refreshments and a chance to chat.

Sunday: the service will be led by the pastor. After a time of praise and prayer, he will continue his series of studies in the first letter of Peter.

On Wednesday (25) ladies of all ages are invited to The Regal at 7.30pm for a demonstration by Karen Gallagher, a qualified beautician. Contact Heather Gee beforehand, if possible.

The men's Tramps' Supper planned for November 28 has been postponed and will now take place on December 5. If you would like details, please ring Don Gee on the number below.

The church is hoping to contribute a Christmas scene to the Littleport Street Fayre on December 4. People are needed to play the part of shepherds and wise men, and also singers. If you would like to take part, let Don know.

INFO: Don Gee on 01353 864690 or 01353 860885 or go to www.thevinelittleport.org.uk

Women's Institute

PRESIDENT Linda Harvey welcomed members and guests to the AGM held on November 12. Secretary Rosemary Coleman summarized activities of the group over the last year. Edna Lister, treasurer, gave her summary of the accounts. Linda then thanked everyone for their help and support over the year. Members were given the opportunity to vote for the new committee members. Rosemary Green, Isle chairman counted the votes. There is no change in the committee and Linda Harvey was elected President for another year.

Speaker for the evening was David Reeves. He talked about his experiences whilst being on active duty as a police inspector protecting the Royal Family.

Maggie McGowen gave us a report on the recent council meeting attended.

Gladys Rose and Audrey Bent were presented with WI mugs for points received for entering competitions.

Next meeting will be the Christmas celebrations party when the Isle Singers will be entertaining us. The refreshments will be bring-and-share.

L.E.A.D.S

LITTLEPORT Ely and District Spiritualist service is open to everyone and entry is free.

This is held at the village hall in Victoria Street in Littleport on Thursday unless stated in the newspaper or on our web site.

Doors open at 6.30pm for healing which ends at 7.20pm. This is free to all who would like to have healing. If requiring healing please arrive early as our healers are very busy and do not wish to disappoint those who require it.

Our Divine Service begins at 7.30pm.

This week we have medium Colin Anderson to take our service. Next week (November 26) we have well known medium, Pauline Porter.

There is a raffle and a goodwill collection, all donations are welcome.

The evening is closed with tea/coffee and light refreshments again for which there is no charge and you are all welcome to join us for this.

We continue to have new faces joining us and we hope you were made welcome and enjoyed your evening and look forward to seeing you again.

There are places available for Development and Healing Circles. An awareness group is held on the first Monday of the month with a small charge of �2.50. All are welcome.

To view our programme, visit our web site:

www.mjgoodall.co.uk/lead-spirit.htm or for further information contact Wendie on 01353 667300

LITTLE THETFORD

St George's Church

THE service of Holy Communion on Sunday was taken by Rev Margaret Harper with sermon from Tony Harper.

This Sunday the service at 9.30am will be Morning Praise incorporating a Memorial theme to remember loved ones. This service will be led by David Noble. All welcome to join with us in quiet reflection.

Little Thetford Baptist Church

THIS week's service will be led by Liz Herrington. Bible study will continue on Tuesday with Peter Cockerton and this group with attendees from both churches. Wednesday: we will have our second coffee morning of the month at 10am and this will be run by Mary Muir.

Friday: Girls Brigade - 6pm. Jane Dunseath and leaders managing the 20-plus for five-14 year olds.

New children's Sunday morning club to run alongside the adult service. All children welcome.

As a fellowship we would like to encourage any new people along so that we may grow together and reach out in the local community.

INFO: contact Pastor Tudor Parsons on 01353 666109.

SOHAM

Methodist Church

SUNDAY'S service at 10am was led by Terry Day.

Sunday: service at 10am will be led by Rev Edwin Myers and will include Holy Communion. There is no service at 5pm

Soham Methodist Church has had extensive renovation work carried out on the adjoining Sunday school room (hall), kitchen and toilets, including toilet facilities for the disabled, which were paid for with the aid of a grant of �5,000 provided through the landfill tax credit scheme. The churches scheme is only one of several schemes operated by WREN to benefit communities in the locality of its operating company, using landfill tax credits.

Heartbeat Health Walk

THE weekly walk on November 9 attracted 35 walkers who met at the church. Led by David Clarke with Laurie Budd at the back, they enjoyed a walk of 3.2 miles around Soham. A stop was made at The Ship or Sauce megabytes for refreshment.

Over 60's Club

DIANE Wheeling welcomed members to the meeting on November 13. Names and money for the Christmas meal at the college on December 9 were taken and names would be taken for the meal at Brook House on December 15 at the next meeting. Games of bingo were played with Diane Wheeling calling the numbers assisted by Jean Peacock and Jean Wells checking the cards. Peggy Gibbon organised the raffle, refreshments were served and the meeting closed with the singing of the club hymn.

Phoenix Club

THE meeting of the Phoenix Club was well attended on November 11. Janice Kinnear welcomed everyone which included two new members. The speaker was PC Paul Carter who, for the past five years, has been a wildlife crime officer, the only one in this county. Paul gave an interesting and informative talk about his work. Paul also works with zoos and conservation organisations. Janice thanked Paul on behalf of everyone. Refreshments were served and Jill Powley organised the raffle. Two minutes' silence was observed at 11am. Members were invited to talk about their experiences during the war. The meeting was brought to a close with a selection of humorous tales read by Janet Gill. The next meeting is on December 9 at 9.30am. All welcome.

SUTTON

St Andrew's Church

ST ANDREW'S Day celebrations will be held a day early on November 29. Rev Matthew Bradbury will preach at a special service at 4pm. This will be followed by a fish and chip supper in the Glebe. Please let churchwardens know if you will be attending.

An open prayer meeting takes place at St Andrew's every Wednesday from 7pm-7.30pm in The Lady Chapel. Please join us for mid-week prayers in an informal setting where you can either pray openly or silently, or have others pray for you.

An open meeting for parishioners around the diocese will be held in Ely Cathedral on November 30 at 7.30pm for views to be put forward on what qualities you are looking for in the next Bishop of Ely.

250 Club

IN October the �30 prize was won by Mrs G Dick of Sutton.

INFO: To join the 250 Club contact Tony Gillett on (01353) 778458.

Garden Club

THE speaker at the meeting held on November 11 was Timothy Clark from Soham whose talk, supported by slides, was entitled 'plants, gardeners and gardens'.

He discussed the early history of English gardening and showed some of the Italian gardens which, in the 14th Century, influenced the design and planting of English gardens. His fee for speaking will go as a donation to David Lindford's dog rescue centre at Sutton Gault. Mr Clark brought along his own rescue Labrador called Ace to let us see the good work that Mr Lindford does.

The evening concluded with refreshments and the usual raffle.

The next meeting will be held on December 9 at 8pm in the Brooklands Centre Village Hall. Wildlife photographer Edwin Frear will be the guest. This will be the Christmas meeting with mince pies, mulled wine and a festive raffle.

The club has been approached by the Lifeboat Institution to participate in its Summer Open Garden Scheme, which would raise funds for the lifeboats. The club is proposing to organise an open gardens Sunday on June 27, which is at the beginning of Feast Week. Further discussion will take place at the AGM.

Sutton WI

THE annual meeting was held on November 12 and, after a talk by Norman Allen about the Woodland Trust, re-elected the committee. The new president for the year is Rosemary Higgs and the December meeting will be the Christmas party.

Sutton Conservation Society

THE AGM will be held today (November 19) at 8pm in The Pavilion. After the business is settled Cliff Carson, who was the warden for RSPB Ouse Washes for many years, will be giving a talk entitled 'giving wildlife the edge in Middle Level'.

The Non Christmas Quiz will be held on December 17 at 8pm in The Pavilion.

Bronze Age Exhibition

AN exhibition about Bronze Age Sutton is on display at Ely Museum from November 4 until February 2010. It is the culmination of five years of work by a dedicated group of volunteers from Sutton. Funded by the National Lottery and supported by the Cambridgeshire Archaeological Field Unit, the group excavated a burial mound and found an urn containing human remains.

INFO: www.suttononline.org or visit the display at Ely Museum.

The Gingerbread Show

VITAL Communities present the Gingerbread Show, an enchanting family show performed by Rowan Wylie on November 25 at 6.30pm at The Brooklands Centre. Tickets are free, but must be booked in advance.

INFO: Karen Thomas (01223) 715475 or email Karen.Thomas@cambridgeshire.gov.uk

WARDY HILL

Dominoes

THERE were four tables in play at the dominoes held on November 6 in the social club when Mrs M Dewsbery was MC. Winners were: F Tall, R Dewsbery, B Copping, Mrs A Houghton and Mrs M Dewsbery. Highest halves: Mrs O Newell and

Mrs S Saberton; consolation: Miss G Canham; draw: R Dewsbery, B Copping, Mrs M Dewsbery and Miss G Canham.

Whist Drive

THERE were four tables in play at the whist drive held on November 9 in the social club when Mrs M Dewsbery was MC. Winners were: Mrs P Jordan, B Copping, Mrs E Sizer, R Saberton, Mrs D Perrin and Mrs P Brand. Highest Halves: Miss G Canham and Miss M Murfitt; most eights: K Cornwell; consolation: F Tall; draw: K Cornwell, Miss G Canham, Mrs M Dewsbery and R Saberton.

WITCHFORD

St Andrew's Church

VETERANS of 115 Squadron who were based at RAF Witchford (now Lancaster Way Business Park) from 1943 to the end of wartime hostilities returned with families and friends and held a short service of remembrance last Sunday at their memorial dedicated to those who failed to return to Witchford from operations. The service was addressed by Rev Teresa Dixon.

Filip Doms and Erwin Sollie travelled from Belgium to lay a wreath and Squadron Leader Nick Goodwyn from RAF Cranwell, Flight Lieutenant Peter Batson, Flight Lieutenant Paul Hepburn, Flight Lieutenant Kim Coxon, who are serving members of 115 Squadron, and six Air Cadets attended.

After a buffet lunch in Witchford Sports and Social Club, they visited RAF Witchford Display of Memorabilia which is dedicated to men and women who were based at RAF Witchford and 75 Squadron RAF Mepal during the Second World War.