A great Chrismas Eve - We started off by going to the carol service at Priors Hardwick - it was absolutely packed and was a lovely relaxed, happy service , with the vicar trying very hard to make people understand the true meaning of Christmas, I think it went over the heads of the majority, but he tried nontheless, and it was great community occasion. We then went on to Huw Derbyshire's who lives in a lovely little cottage in the High Street for a little drinkie, and then on to The Butchers Arms where they were serving mulled wine for all the church goers, (halo's beginning to slip somewhat) It was beautifully decorated and just what you would dream of for the perfect English Christmas - We had also been invited to John's celebrations in the village of Chipping Warden, where we arrived just as they were serving the food - perfect timing and a great ending to a wonderful night - we had spent some time during the evening reflecting on how different things may be in a few years time if the government decide to go with the High Speed Railway, which will cut through our community and force 40% of us to move away - one can only pray and hope that they will see sense and not approve the project which at best will only increase the journey time from London to Birmingham by 20 minutes - at what cost? Not just financially but it will split communities up that have been together for generations - this is just something that cannot be quantified, and no amount of 'research' can put into words the impact it will have on our rural community in the future.

Hey!! The clock says it is just after midnight so HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE - I had better start think about wrapping up some pressies...