Tracey and Gwyn hoped for some exotic birds to watch for the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch The first step was setting up the feeder, then watching. We saw ten house sparrows, two collared doves and one each of blackbirds and robin. Perhaps the exotic bird was in a pear tree? So... off we went to a National Trust arboretum and spotted 4 great tits, two great spotted woodpeckers, two robins, two blue tits, a chaffinch and a nuthatch. We also saw two red squirrels.

Today the gang at Parkinson's Cricket warmed up with a game of boccia & then moved on to working on their batting skills.

We finished the session with tea & biscuits, & making plans for future activities.

It was our first session back at Parkinson's Cricket after the bank holidays, and so good to see the gang again.

Today Alex had the team focusing on a variety of bowling techniques, and which kept the volunteers on their toes retrieving the balls.

We all enjoyed a lovely hot drink and some biscuits afterwards.

Gwyn and Tracey popped along to Derbyshire Cricket Foundation's Monday Mates session. We helped Alex to set up the room, and then joined in the fun with jigsaws, games, a quiz and some seated cricket.

There were a few extra seats for the cricket, so Gwyn persuaded Tracey to play for a change, rather than just fielding as usual. We were each bowled three balls, trying to get the highest score, and Tracey was jammy enough to get three sixes.

We'll be back again in February for more fun and games, do come along and join us.

Colin and Pete joined David for the final St Matthew’s session of the year. We worked on general maintenance of individual gravestones while discussing our plans for Christmas 🤶. As we have been throughout the year we were made very welcome. Excellent cake! Happy Christmas everyone!

Tracey and Gwyn met Fr Peter at Peet Street to collect leaflets advising of St Luke's Church's Christmas arrangements. We had one enthusiastic passer-by who took a leaflet as we went along, saving us a journey. I met a friendly cat and we managed to slalom around the 🐕 💩 hazards this time. Tracey provided spoons and bags and I was spoon-fed and had everything in the bag!