FROM THE VICARAGE STUDY

My dear People,

You will have noticed before reading this that we have a fresh cover for the magazine. It is in fact one of a set of 12 picture covers produced by Church News. We thought it wise to rest our own set of cover photos, after a run of two years, and use them again in a year or two. Another change is a new Inset — the Sign, published by Mowbrays; this may have fewer illustrations than the previous one - but we think it may be more thought-provoking. Comments on these changes (adverse or favourable) will be welcomed by myself and the churchwardens.

Three other points concerning the magazine come to mind. Several people have enquired about Mr. Baldwin's articles on Hartlip. I intend to continue this interesting series just as soon as space allows. Secondly, two of our distributors, Mrs. Stevens and Mrs. Harris, have to our regret given up and we welcome, in their place Mrs. Saxby (Lower Road) and Mrs. Mountford (Munn's Lane and part of the Street); and this leads me to say how much the regular, quiet work of the distributors is appreciated; they are an essential part of the team that produces our Parish Magazine.

The third point concerns finance. It is not easy in a village of this size (with its limited circulation) to produce a magazine of this standard which will pay its way - even with the help of advertisements and a Jumble Sale. Last year the Church Council Subsidised the Magazine account to the extent of £30, rather than raise the price. It is, I submit, extremely good value for 6d., if you consider what you pay each day for your newspaper. One way of avoiding either an increase of price or a lowering of standard is for those who, can afford it to hand a 10/- note to the distributor next month and not ask for change. Several already do this; can you not be another?

May I express the hope that each one of us may strive for and find real peace and happiness in this new year of 1966, both in our community and in the world.

Your sincere friend and Vicar,

JOHN GREEN.