ST Helen’s Church at Whitley Chapel was beautifully decorated in autumnal flowers and foliage for the harvest thanksgiving service on Sunday evening.

Guest preacher, the Rev. David Goodhall, joined the Rev Andrew Patterson in leading the service.

Shirley’s Girls sang a collection of songs and children from Whitley Chapel first school joined the congregation singing harvest themed hymns.

A collection was taken to raise money for the Barnabas charity which supports persecuted minorities and refugees. A very tasty supper was enjoyed in the hall afterwards.

THE ladies of Hexhamshire Women’s Institute have been very busy of late. Their social lunch last Friday was a great success.

The ladies have raised almost £200 in September and October for the parish hall refurbishment fund. Come along and enjoy a bowl of warming soup and a roll and bring your friends. The next lunch will take place on Friday, November 6.

THE women’s institute will once again be selling Christmas cakes and puddings as well as preserves at the parish hall Christmas fair on Saturday, November 21. Tables are still available to sell your wares. Please contact Gill Whatmough telephone (01434) 676949.

DON’T forget to reserve your tickets for the leek club’s Hallowe’en ceilidh, which will take place on Saturday, October 31, at Whitley Chapel.

Please contact Michael Atkinson telephone (01434) 673932 or Bob Bennett telephone (01434) 601598.