ROCK BOTTOM is hardly an apt epithet for this community, but it may be a sign of things to come. A lot of mumblings preceded the Valley’s first rock concert last summer; people feared the misdemeanours of Reading or the mud of Glastonbury, or both.

In fact the sell-out event went smoothly and in very orderly circumstances. None of the feared traffic chaos or rowdy lawlessness transpired to disturb residents more than at an acceptable level of minor short-term inconvenience.

Not at all surprising, then, that the Playing Field and Friends of Burford organisers are planning the second event in late summer this year.

Obviously, there was intense dismay and criticism expressed when the Rose Carnival ended after 50 years, and indeed its loss was deplorable. But, to be pragmatic, it was becoming increasingly difficult to organise and its financial rewards had not kept pace with either inflation or the effort required.

Two main factors needed to be preserved from the old order; a good day out to reinforce the community spirit, and a predictable source of income for the two beneficiaries.

If Rock Bottom can serve those two aims, it may well be different, perhaps reflecting changed social habits, but it has a chance of providing the fun and financial benefit that will keep us going.

I’m not an obvious target visitor for a rock event, I always enjoyed the Rose Carnival, but times have changed. In many cases, the loudest complainers at that change very possibly included those who were least prepared to put effort into maintaining the old traditions.

A successful public gig does not necessarily have to mean rock bottom.

AFTERNOON tea is catching on as an appealing social activity, in two senses.

Diana Bond has combined the Tiffin followers’ enthusiasm for stimulating chat over a cup of char with fruitful fundraising for charity. With the help of the Barn Club, she will be hosting her next event on April 30, between 2 and 4.

Home-made scones and cakes and tea will raise money for Age UK. I can see this one becoming a valley staple, well worth supporting. Maybe I’ll see you there – after you with the jam.

BUTTERFLIES have been bringing welcome signs of spring. Bob Hufflett has reported a peacock patrolling his garden last week, and I caught sight recently of that traditional harbinger of warmer times, the Brimstone. It is said that the word butterfly is a contraction of the original butter coloured fly, itself a probable reference to the Brimstone.

Interesting that both these species are ones that hibernate here, so they are ready to greet sunnier weather more or less immediately.

THE BARN Club can be relied upon to generate national fervour by celebrating St George’s Day. They never miss the chance to fly the flag.

On April 23, from 7.30pm, members and guests can enjoy a truly English dinner of roast beef with all the trimmings and fresh vegetables. Good old apple pie and custard to follow.

The interior of the club will be transformed and decorated to suit the occasion, and there will be music too.

Last year’s event was very popular, and sold-out, so early booking seems a prudent move.

Remember, as she had only just arrived a year ago, Shelley’s reputation in the kitchen had still to be established. Since then, Barn Club eating has acquired a reputation that has regularly been attracting unprecedented numbers.

If you are not a club member, or do not have a friend likely to introduce you as a guest, membership is well worth considering.

That celebration meal will cost £17.50, and you are very unlikely to regret the investment. If beef is not your thing, Shelley offers a truly delectable fresh salmon alternative.

LIVING in Marlow Bottom, away from the town centre scene, it would be easy not to notice Marlow Museum. I was interested to get news that last week it greeted its 10,000th visitor since it opened in May 2009.

In fact it was Rachel Hall who visited with her husband, Steve and children Milly, Charlotte and Max. Mrs Hall received a certificate to mark the event, two books about Marlow and one year’s membership of the museum.

The Hall family had come to see the current exhibition, Famous People of Marlow, which brings to life the people commemorated by the blue plaques on Marlow buildings.

Della Fitzgerald, the museum’s Honorary Secretary, can tell you more about the museum, on 01628 482515 or email to della.fitzgerald@marlowmuseum.org. Why not see more by visiting www.marlow museum.org MARLOW Bottom Valley Residents’ Association (MBVRA) plans its AGM on April 28 at 8pm in the Barn Club.

Typically, the old committee is prepared to remain, but the organisation, like any other, does need new blood. If you are new to the community, or just feel that some things need to be done differently, then now’s your chance to let your influence be felt.

Just come along and make yourself seen and heard.

EVERY parish council has a statutory duty to hold an annual meeting. It’s not the same thing as the AGM of the council itself.

Anyone can attend, but only registered electors may speak or vote.

Two prime objectives of the Parish Meeting are the council’s opportunity to inform us what it’s been doing and the chance for any local organisations to present their aims and activities.

Come and be informed from 7.30pm on April 24 in the village hall.

NEXT week there’s news on possible new verges, a new drive for businesses and even a new church. Intriguing!