JEAN WITHERS: This much-loved lady, who had lived on Woolgreaves for more than 40 years, died, aged 89 and at her funeral, conducted by Deacon Nick Shields, there were many neighbours as well as members of her family. Jean (nee McKelvie) was a true Glaswegian, who passed a scholarship to the famous Auchenlarvie Academy before taking up a career in the civil service. After marrying Denis, director of the Wakefield firm of Walter Crane, she settled in Sandal, working for the NHS, as well as having son, Michael, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Jean was always happy, never more than with her family.

STANLEY SADLER: This great local sportsman is celebrating his 90th birthday and while recognised as much honoured member of Sandal CC his fame is recognised everywhere in the area as not only a really gifted player, but a true gentleman in the game. I played against him nearly 60 years ago as a schoolboy member of the old St Austins team.

CAR BOOT SALE: Will be held at Pledwick CC on Sunday when lots of sellers and buyers are expected.

SANDAL CRICKET DRAW: Winners of the June draw were 1st prize (£100) No 21, 2nd prize (£50) No 17 and 3rd prize (£25) No 58. The next draw will take place in the pavilion on July 25, at 8pm.

SANDAL CRICKET: Tomorrow 2nd Xl are at home to Hensall, start at 1pm, match ball sponsored by Sandal Fires & Surrounds. A big match on Sunday when Pontefract League play York League in a Joe Lumb u17 match. All welcome.

WOOLGREAVES CLOSE: Contacted by Keith, speaking for a group of residents worried at the increasing number of vehicles attempting to leave the estate but missing a right turn along the drive which takes them struggling to get out of the close, I arranged with the council's highways section to erect a post, clearly marking the close as a cul-de-sac and, while in the area, got new Woolgreaves Drive signs provided to replace faded ones.

SS P&P SUZY FUND: The AGM of this great charity based in Sandal, took place last Tuesday when the balance sheet showed the quite amazing year end figure of receipts £46,034 and payments – nothing. Wonderful to find that every penny donated is distributed to help those in need, far and wide, as the gross total after 34 years has now passed £550,000.

THE SPRING: Called in this wonderful asset for Sandal last week for an excellent lunch and as ever unable to resist buying a bargain book and then joined by an old friend, Major Alan for a chat, he is just one of the many volunteers who are working to extend facilities, providing a bigger area for dining, as well as a better display of items for sale.

STRAWBERRIES & STEAM: A tremendous opportunity to spend time in one of the most interesting gardens in Sandal presents itself when a famous railway enthusiast, John Allen of 13 Carr Lane invites everyone to call from 11am to evening on Saturday, July 11. On my preview I was amazed at the attention to detail John has shown in building his railway. Admission charge a modest £4 to cover strawberies and cream with all money raised being for Chapelthorpe Church funds. Don't miss it.

FIRST LADY: Sue Parkin, of Roger Drive, Sandal, has earned herself a unique distinction – she has been elected the first woman president of the Rotary Club of Wakefield. Sue hopes to get more women and younger people involved in the charitable work carried out by Rotary which meets each week at the New Brookhouse Club.

ROTARY CONCERT: The first official event for Sue Parkin, elected this week as Wakefield Rotary Club's first woman president, will be a major fundraising musical extravaganza at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School on Saturday at 7.30pm. It will feature West Yorkshire Police Band, Wakefield Amateur Operatic Society chorus and soloists Victoria Sharp and Graham Campbell Russell from Opera North, accompanied by Keith Swallow. Tickets, £10 each, are available at the door.

SS PETER & PAUL: Last Sunday saw the Patronal Feast of the church celebrated with a summer garden party at church when a large group of happy parishioners enjoyed a great occasion in wonderful weather.

CHARLES WATERTON: A large group of parishioners, led by Deacon Nick Shields, walked to the grave of Charles Waterton ( 1782-1865), an opportunity to pay tribute to a great man, 'father of our parish'.

PLEDWICK CRICKET: Last week this go-ahead Sandal Club organised a great day of Kwik-Kricket for Wakefield Schools. Winners St James A beat St James B in the final and Yorkshire coach Tony Bowery came to present the prizes. A great day was enjoyed by all. Sadly I have to appeal for help, as someone has taken a large tarpaulin sheet which formed an important part of the covers for the wicket. If anyone has any information, the club would love to have a phone call on 07798 810858.