TEA TIME: Despite the pouring rain, there was a good turnout for the Christian Aid Tea at St Julian's Methodist Church. Newport East MP Jessica Morden called in and won a raffle prize, while a local councillor helped with serving and washing up. The sum of £100 has been raised so far.

Further donations would be warmly welcomed. Thanks to Mary for all her hard work.

FIREFLASH: The Fire Service offers a free home fire check and fits free smoke alarms. There is a very useful booklet available. Better safe than sorry. Ring freephone 0800 169 1234 or go on line www.fireflash.org.

MAGAZINE: The Harvest edition of St Julian's Methodist quarterly magazine is now out. It is always a good read and it is available from the church in return for a donation.

Apart from all the usual features, there are interesting accounts of trips to Bardsey Island, Peaks, Potteries and stately homes, the Poppy Fields of Flanders, Kew Gardens and the World Scout Jamboree.

On a more philosophical note, the Reverend Laurie Campbell's A Life Story told in Aphorisms, recounted by Judith Jones, is very thought-provoking. I particularly liked "Anything is possible if you don't mind who takes the credit", and, one of John Wesley's sayings, "An ounce of love is worth a pound of knowledge".

REMINDER: The St Julian's Senior Citizens' Club in Orchard Lane is looking forward to tonight's concert by the famous Risca Males Voice Choir. (Monday, October 1, at 7.15). There will be the usual refreshments and raffle. Visitors welcome.