Bettws Events Committee, under the guidance of the Community Link, have worked relentlessly throughout the past year arranging the 2007 carnival.

This has been achieved by just six people with the help of the city council arts and crafts development officer.

Youngsters did a grand job producing paintings and crafts depicting the carnival theme of Oriental China.

On the day 150 children and parents left Don Close Nursery at 11.45am and proceeded along Lambourne Way to the start. They joined other walkers for the procession around the shopping area and then back to the council fields for the judging, which was carried out by Paul Flynn MP and Rosemary Butler AM.

The mayor and mayoress arrived at 1pm.

At the fields there was a ride for the youngsters, bouncy castles, vintage cars and various stalls.

The procession was led by a samba band who were drumming away merrily.

The highlight was the colourful flags, banners and oriental clothes.

My own particular favourite was Mike Manley who arrived as Fu-Man Ah Tishoo.

Thanks must go to all those who took part - the teachers at the nursery, Bettws Police, the shop owners for donating raffle prizes, the stewards and other helpers, Bettws in Bloom for lending their meeting quarters, Granville John who helped with the arts and crafts, and the filmmakers.

Thanks also to Ann, Hilary, Joan, Gail and Mike for making it a day to remember. The weather was beautiful and everyone enjoyed the day.

RETIREMENT: Three years ago I wrote to congratulate Ian and Linda Baston on their 20 years as managers of Forbuoys Newsagents at the Bettws Centre.

The have now however decided to retire and will be leaving the business in mid-September.

In all that time they have achieved much respect and built up close relationships with their customers.

Linda said: "We put it down to hard work, early mornings and talking to people who are really friendly."

With a newsagents they have to start early supplying the delivery people with their papers, serve at the counter and provide a service for the National Lottery. May we all wish Ian and Linda a very happy retirement.

FUN FOR ALL: Even if you have never played bowls why not give it a try. It is easy to learn, very enjoyable and ideal for any age.

If you have two hours to spare on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1pm-3pm, come along to the Millbrook Community Centre, behind the school, during the first week in September and enjoy a leisurely game of bowls.

If interested either write to me at the above address or attend on the first Tuesday in September.