Charlecote Park

Christmas came to Charlecote with Victorian style decorations, a wind band and Christmas singing. Father Christmas paid his usual visit, and, of course, the weather looked seasonal. The deer have been given extra rations to help them during this weather.

The New Year will be a busy one for staff who, in addition to the usual thorough winter cleaning sessions, will be helping the National Trust Book Conservator on the first of a 5 year programme of work on the library's unique collection of books.

Although the house remains closed at the beginning of the year, the park is open daily as is the Orangery for light snacks. Why not have a New Year walk and a coffee? The sculpture trail is still in place (large mice don't seem to mind the snow). A little later in the year the bells for the Clock on the Gatehouse are being rehung and will once again be heard across the Park. The work on the Gatehouse itself has been slowed down by the cold, but continues as and when possible.

For further details of opening, events, etc, please contact Charlecote Park on 01789 470277 or visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-charlecotepark .

Wellesbourne Choral Society

The choir have had an interesting but successful Christmas season of concerts. With the snow and very cold weather in early December, this made for a difficult journey to the concert at St. George's Church, Newbold Pacey on 3 December, for both choir and supporters. However, a small but appreciative audience were warmed by coffee and mince pies in the interval and the money raised will be added to the church's fabric fund.

For the concert at St Peter's Church, Wellesbourne on 10 December, the weather was still cold but at least the snow had gone. However, there was a reminder of the white stuff in the audience carol ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ and in several of the festive songs. Another appreciative audience warmly applauded the performance and then were rewarded with mulled wine and mince pies during the interval. The proceeds of the concert will enable the choir to purchase more music with which they will hope to continue to entertain their loyal supporters.

The next performance will be Easter anthems and Vivaldi's “Gloria” on Friday 15 April 2011 at 7.30pm in St Peter's Church, Wellesbourne, with all profits going to church funds.