"FAMOUS BUCKS HOUSES and Their Families" is the title of a talk being given by Brian Edwards on Tuesday to members of the WI who meet at The Pastures Free Methodist Church. Visitors are very welcome. Go along at 7.45pm for an evening of local interest.

ARE YOU thinking of owning a dog? Have you considered "adopting" a canine friend? Sue Howe has founded DAISI (Downley Animal Information Service Initiative) to help dogs without loving owners find the homes and care they deserve. Sue has a trip planned mid-August to rescue more of man's best friends from people who treat them extremely badly. She would love to hear from anyone wishing to give a neglected dog a happy life. Sue can help by matching your needs with the wide variety of animals she knows personally, or by putting you in touch with someone else if she cannot find the perfect companion for your situation. There are all shapes, sizes, breeds, ages and temperaments waiting for a home.

Please give her a call on 01494 440570 and see the posters at the Le De and Starlight Stores.

MENTIONING returning to school at this stage of the long summer holidays does not go down well with pupils but parents have to think ahead. Uniforms, shoes, rucksacks, books, art equipment - the list can seem endless. Transport to and from the place of education can become complicated. A local lady has come up with the idea of arranging a chartered coach from Downley to the schools at the top of Marlow Hill. Jane Riches has already been in touch with Carousel with a view to organising a daily term time service picking up along The Pastures and Plomer Hill then heading off down New Road direct to the dreaded Handy Cross area. A minimum of 40 travellers is required to ensure a reasonably priced fare. Please spread the word among friends and neighbours who might not see this and get in touch with Jane on 01494 464299 or e-mail riches59.ntlworld.com LOOKING for a local venue remember that Downley Old School has recently undergone decoration and is now available for hire. It has ample parking, kitchen facilities, wheelchair access and room outside for a bouncy castle. Please telephone Pamela Brooks on 01494 436161 for full details.

Pamela also deals with bookings for the Memorial Hall and can offer accommodation there too.