SPRINGTIME always appeals to me. Perhaps it’s the primeval drive of life returning, or the increasing light levels and warmth. Even birdsong seems more relaxed. As I write, a muntjac deer is dozing, not six feet from me, on the other side of the glass.

Mostly, though, I think it’s the sheer number of things happening, and that certainly applies to the next few weeks. So many of the annual national highlights to look forward to – Chelsea Flower Show, the Cup Final, the Eurovision Song Contest; you know what I mean. Now, this year, we have the exhilaration of elections – don’t you wish we could get more coverage on TV? No? Well suit yourself.

LOCALLY, it’s a landmark month and year. After close on 15 years, and even a crisis within the last couple of weeks, the hard-fought-for public recognition of the valley’s most famous and prestigious sportsman is due for unveiling.

On the wide grassy area near the Rebellion entrance, the commemorative sculpture will be revealed by Sir Steve Redgrave on Sunday, May 3, at 11am.

The Resident’s Association points out that, in spite of the delay, all the money donated has been preserved and ring-fenced and will have contributed to covering the cost of the projects. It is hoped that as many of those donors as possible will come to the ceremony on May 3.

VALLEY PLUS holds its AGM next Tuesday, April 28, in the Methodist Chapel at 1.45.

All the current committee are prepared to stand again, but new blood will be welcome for election.

Apparently, the Punch and Judy man will be there – that’s the way to do it!

MARLOW Bottom Valley Residents’ Association holds its AGM on May 18. Current committee members are all prepared to stand for re-election, but new nominations will be welcome at the meeting in the Barn Club Tartan Bar at 8pm on the night.

ALTHOUGH the Barn Club has already celebrated St George’s Day, other celebrations will be offered in May. On May 9 there is a commemoration and celebration of VE Day, with the club open to non members. The party starts at 8pm and will go on until 2am. There will be a barbecue and live music. Fancy dress is encouraged.

COUNCIL works will not extend quite as far as their first aspirations had hoped. Rather, funds will not stretch as far as providing a cycle path all the way to Burford School. The work will end at the village hall.

Listening to many commentators in the valley, it could have saved £350,000 by not starting it in the first place, such are the concerns for safety in the valley. Many are convinced there will be a proliferation of accidents.

DEMAND for Da Luca’s services as a favourite eating place continues to burgeon. To cope with requests, starting in May, the restaurant will open from 10 each day except Monday, for coffee and light refreshments, just like Italy!

NEXT week I will give information about a major new musical enterprise that will offer events throughout May. It is a highly participative festival that will appeal to much of the community; be sure to read all about it next issue. This could be a whole new regular institution.