KNIT KNATS: Those energetic, enthusiastic knitting experts have been at it again.

On this occasion it is Blankets for Ghana. In addition, they have knitted garments for a nursery in Bettws, also, they are repeating the work for a nursery in Alway.

One is left gasping at the prodigious amount of wool used, not to mention the sheer effort that this group of wonderful people use in helping others.

THE FORT: Once again the off- road biking hooligans have been afforded easy entry to the Fort, cutting up the pathways with their tyres and making what should be a lovely walk into a mud track.

It is quite beyond my comprehension that the authorities leave a gate, not only unlocked but also wide open. This noisy, unnecessary, and wholly unpleasant menace should be discouraged with the full force of the law.

Another thought crossed my mind when I was writing this. What would the Iron Age people have done? A few well-aimed spears into the offending tyres would soon cause the offenders to think before they assault that green and pleasant place.

GAER COMMUNITY CENTRE: Ian Glastonbury, the ever-energetic support worker, has mentioned that there is to be a Spanish taster course running at the centre. However, every course needs people who wish to learn and thus far there are but three students.

As I have stated before, the best way to get the most out of a Spanish holiday is to learn at least the basic greeting and goodbyes.

I am certain that the holiday-makers of the Gaer will respond to the challenge by going along to the community centre, it's on Gaer Road, opposite the shops, and the person to contact is Jane Wheal or Ian Glastonbury on 01633 784068.

In addition to this, a digital camera course has started. However, there is room for more students so why not combine both and make your holiday in Spain not only language friendly, but with expertly taken holiday shots.

PLAYGROUP: The playgroup is looking for more children. This group is run by fully trained staff who are very efficient and caring.

At a cost of only £4.50 per session, from 9.35am-11.35am, you can be certain that your child or children are in safe hands and a safe environment.

For more information telephone the centre on 01633 784068.

VANDALISM: This disease is once again on the increase, graffiti everywhere there is a space, bottles and beer cans littering the centre and the Gaer School grounds, the once-lovely garden now beaten into a wasteland.

This is most disheartening to all who see the mess. All that we can hope is that some of the miscreants are caught and the law fits the punishment to the crime.

A chain gang clearing up the mess was among the suggestions put forward by residents.