THE renovation of the Grand Parade area is now almost complete.

The official completion date is October 17, but you won't see it in its full glory until things have had a chance to grow a bit. A permanent Christmas tree is also planned - all we need is somebody with some really good ideas for lighting it in time for the Hook Christmas Cracker in the first week of December.

If you think you know how it should look and would like to advise - on a voluntary or commercial basis - contact the deputy parish clerk on 768687 or anne.atkins@hook.gov.uk

SPEAKING of the Christmas Cracker, Hart District Council's licensing committee recently decided to support a return to old-fashioned street trading.

On October 7, they will be debating a pilot scheme for a weekly market in Odiham High Street. If approved, this should open in time for Christmas shopping.

A REMINDER to all mums and dads of little ones that Hook Under-Twos has changed its times. They are now starting slightly earlier at 9.15am and running until 10.45am at Hook New Covenant Church on Elms Road. For more details, contact either Emma on 767952 or Cheryl on 767972.

YOU may be aware that there was a fire at the community centre two weeks ago, caused by an electrical problem. This may cause disruption to the normal village events, so please contact the centre on 764000 for more up- to-date details.