WHERE WAS THE ARK? Six local churches held their annual Whitsunday march of Witness. The 100-strong group of all ages walked and sang following a loudspeaker vehicle, but the weather was such that Noah's ark would have been more appropriate.

Members of St Julian's, Duckpool Road, Penylan and Summerhill Baptist Churches, St Julian's Methodist Church and the Newport Gateway Church were involved.

They splashed from St Julian's Baptist to Duckpool Road, where the very damp but undaunted marchers were welcomed with a slap-up' tea followed by an uplifting evening service.

GRAND AUCTION:On Saturday, June 9, there will be a grand auction of household items, toys, clothing and occasional furniture at St Julian's Methodist Church Hall. Lots may be viewed from 10am and the auction will commence at noon. Refreshments available.

The proceeds are for necessary renovation work at the church and for Raven House.

THE CHARTIST MURAL: Although everyone is looking forward to the redeveloped shopping centre, much concern has been expressed about the loss of the Chartist Mural in Friars Walk. Why can't it stay where it is? Why can't it be moved? If it cannot be moved, why can't an exact copy be made?

It is a planning condition that the planning committee must be consulted about any replacement. There has been talk of a contemporary reinterpretation of the Chartist theme.

Contemporary with what? The existing mural was designed to be contemporary with the historic 1839 uprising, and many people have affection for the mural as it is.

Those interested in this matter are invited to a meeting on Monday, June 11, at 6.30 pm at St Mary's Institute, 9 Stow Hill, when various views will be expressed, including those of Oliver Budd, the son of the original artist, and Modus Corovest, the developer.

The meeting is being organised by Accent Newport Trust.

EVIDENCE OF GRACE: A renowned American choir, the Grace Singers, conclude a tour of Britain at St Julian's Methodist Church on Friday, June 15, at 7.30pm.

The choir is drawn from Crossroad, Faith and Southside Methodist Churches, Huntington, West Virginia, and their concert has been a resounding success on both sides of the Atlantic.

Admission is free but there will be a collection for charity.

Further information from Pam (255 058), Gill (667 723) or Eira (776 384).

COFFEE MORNING: The Mothers' Union at St John's Church, Kensington Place, are holding a coffee morning on Saturday June 16, at 10.30 am. You will find a warm welcome together with coffee, tea and cakes, as well as a raffle.