There will be much sadness in Tillingham at the news that the one-time vicar of this parish, the Rev Stanley George Brown, died in Addenbrookes Hospital on February 2.

His wife, Gabrielle, children Adrian and Priscilla and grandchildren Hilary, Fiona and Gregory are arranging a private funeral for February 15, but there will be a memorial service on February 29 at Ely Cathedral.

Only family flowers are requested - donations can be made to the Royal British Legion or the Friends of the Princess of Wales Hospital in Ely.

Donations and enquiries can be made to Ely Funeral Services, Tower Road, Ely, CB7 4HW, telephone 01353 666666.

It is hoped to publish a full tribute in due course.

PARISH PAPER

Technology creeps ever nearer, and those of you reckless enough to throw out your parish paper before the end of the month will be heartened to know that details of all church services in both St Nicholas and St James can now be accessed on the internet, on a website called A Church Near You - www.acny.org.uk When logged in, simply enter Tillingham or Dengie as required and follow the link to church services.

GRAND SPRING AUCTION

This church fundraising event takes place on March 15 in Tillingham village hall at 3pm, with John Barnes as auctioneer. Viewing is from 2pm to 3pm.

It will be an auction of promises for gardening, baby-sitting, ironing, cooking a meal, providing butler or waitress service for the evening etc, or else a sale of furniture, paintings or ornamental objects.

Zanny is hoping people will be generous with their time, their skills or their unwanted treasures, so call her on 779273 as soon as possible so that a catalogue can be compiled.

Items can be delivered to the village hall from 11am on the day, but tell Zanny if you need help with transporting anything.

PARISH COUNCIL ACCOUNTS

The current issue of the parish paper carries a detailed listing of all expenses incurred by the parish council for the past year, and the items of income as well.

Seeing this in black and white makes it clear that running the village is a professional job involving considerable funds. Anyone who is interested in this administration can always attend the monthly meetings at 7.30pm in the village hall, on the third Tuesday in each month.

There is a short opportunity for the public to speak at the beginning, but after that it is not possible to participate in the debates.