SEEMINGLY, rain is only the second cause for concern for organisers of fireworks displays; high winds are much more threatening. So, Burford Fireworks went ahead without significant disruption after all, on November 8. Using local weather forecasts, Jason Batten and his team were able to avoid cancellation when, at the last minute, previously anticipated high winds did not develop over this area. The rain did come; but, rather than reducing the numbers of visitors, there was a sudden major surge of customers at the gate. Speculatively, this might have been a reaction to other local displays being cancelled without the benefit of the latterly more encouraging forecast.

Whatever the circumstances, it was a very successful evening for the Burford display, with probably the highest ever numbers enjoying the spectacle.

VALLEY Plus meets on Tuesday, November 25 when David Scott will be enlightening the audience about High Wycombe's contribution to aviation during WWII. If you, like me, would never have dreamt there was a link between chairs and tables and Mosquitoes and Tiger Moths, then this should be a fascinating and educational talk and well worth attending.

The usual place is the Methodist Chapel and the time is 2 pm.

BURFORD School marked Remembrance Day in a very creative and serious way. All the children attended a special assembly in the morning where they learned all about the origins of the day, who and why we remember, and how the poppy became an important symbol. Each child was then able to make their own poppy and plant it around one of the school's trees to create Burford's special memorial, inspired by the display at The Tower of London. At 11.00 the whole school gathered on the playground for two minutes of silence, the end of which was marked by two of Year 6 boys who played The Last Post on their trumpets. It was a very thoughtful and poignant morning and it is very encouraging that the school organised such a thoughtful programme to perpetuate this very important commemoration.

DREAMFLIGHT is the heart of a long-established contribution made by British Airways to the improvement of the lives of severely disabled and disadvantaged children. The airline provides the flights to Florida while a vigorous team of volunteer helpers become temporary carers and an army of well-wishers come up with schemes to provide supporting finance and facilities.

Through Anne Shave's grand-daughter and Liz Neighbour, the valley plays a significant part. Laura, as a long-term BA member, has helped organise the flights for many years, and accompanies the parties on the excursions. Liz, through the Valley WI, helps raise funds locally, recently a knitting campaign.

So, look out for knitted Teddy Bears, and latterly, Santa Bears, on sale in some valley shops. Proceeds help Dreamflight stay air-borne to the benefit of children seriously in need of a stimulating holiday.

PROPER Father Christmas will be greeting children at St Mary's tomorrow at 2 pm for the St Mary's Pre-school Bazaar.