A SAD LOSS: The area has lost one of its most distinguished residents and a great character in Graham Reynolds.

We were together at Rockfield Nursery, Durham Road Infants, then the "Big Boys" and on to St Julian's High School.

While at St Julian's Graham would play rugby for the school on Saturday morning, football for St Julian's Youth in the afternoon and table tennis for Newport Athletic Club in the evening.

We were together in Form I North and right through until we selected different A-levels, Graham being a linguist. Later we spent four years teaching together at Hartridge. Graham spent his whole teaching career there teaching French and ended up deputy head. He also coached the most successful school football sides in the town.

While still at school he played for Newport County - their youngest player at the time. (Graham was always known as "Tiddler".) He also played for Lovells Athletic, Caerleon and Cwmbran and as a Welsh Amateur football and cricket international. He was a respected scout for Spurs and active in football administration at Newport & District School and Youth and Gwent County level.

As a schoolboy he was offered an apprenticeship at Arsenal but decided to continue with his education. He said he had the best of both worlds with his teaching, his football and, of course, his cricket.

Graham played for Newport and Glamorgan County cricket teams and in 1970 bowled out Gary Sobers.

We were also together at St Julian's Methodist Youth Club and Church. "Graham's Bazaar", held before Monday Club meetings, became an institution as a successful exercise in recycling and fundraising.

The church, local football and cricket and the community generally has lost a loyal and energetic servant and Graham leaves behind a host of friends.

There was a minute's silence at the County last Saturday and at games throughout Gwent.

Deepest sympathy is extended to Graham's widow, Eira, his daughters, Sian and Meryl, and the rest of his family.

CHANGE OF TIME: The Beechwood Neighbourhood Meeting at St Julian's Baptist Church tomorrow will be at 5pm, not 6pm. The fact that the Newport County AFC v Llanelli AFC Welsh Premier Cup final kicks off at 7pm is, of course, entirely coincidental! Those who can't get to Spytty Park can watch the match on BBC television.

WELCOME RETURN: Once again the City of Newport Male Choir returns to the St Julian's Methodist Church for a concert. This is on Thursday, March 13, at 7.30pm. The aim is to raise funds for the Orthopaedic Ward at St Woolos Hospital. Tickets are available at £3 from George or Veronica on 763 834 or at the door. Please come and help swell the coffers while enjoying an evening of splendid music and song.

LENTEN LUNCHES continue to be served on Thursdays at noon at St Julian's Methodist Church. Soup, bread and tea will be served in return for a donation to Christian Aid.

POLICE SURGERY: Thursday, March 13, 11am, Beaufort Centre, Local organisations - let me know your news and future events to share with Grassroots readers.