WE had a wonderful time at St Christchurch Matchborough Christmas lunch.

The youngsters from Ipsley Academy had worked hard to set the tables and chairs and laid them with crackers, balloons, napkins and sparkles. The students met us at the door on arrival and showed us to our seats, helping with coats and bags then offering us a drink once seated.

The excellent turkey with all the trimmings was prepared and cooked by the ever helpful team of volunteers from Matchborough Church and served by the Ipsley students, ably supervised by Councillor Juliet Brunner and the teachers. It was a joy to watch such an efficient operation.

While we ate lunch, the choir sang Christmas songs and carols and we had a visit from Santa with a gift for each of us.

Arrow Vale Academy students arrived and it was announced the piece of paper with a number on was a ticket for the hamper draw.

Each item had been bought, wrapped individuall, and put into a box which had been decorated as a train.

We were lucky enough to have our number drawn.

The students and staff from both academies need a big pat on the back, as do all the people who worked so hard to make it a wonderful start to the festivities. With youngsters like this I don’t think we have anything to worry about in the future.You only hear about the ones who cause trouble not the ones who are so very very A-OK.

KATHY and GRAHAM COURT Greenlands