IT IS WITH GREAT SADNESS that the death is announced of the Rev Jonathan White who was vicar of Holy Trinity, Prestwood and St Mary Magdalene, Great Hampden for 18 years until he retired in October 2002. His ministry and friendship will be remembered by a great many people, and his contribution to church life and the life of the community was unique and considerable.

Apart from the usual church commitments he was often seen in his old Austin and was a prominent figure at the annual Steam Rally. His retirement to Sussex, where he was as busy as ever, often taking two or three services on a Sunday, has come to an untimely end, and he will be greatly missed by both communities. He was a true pastor.

In due course, Holy Trinity will be commemorating his life in a service of thanksgiving.

STRAWBERRIES AND STEAM is at Peterley Manor Farm tomorrow from 8.30am to 4pm and Sunday from 9am to 4pm. Come and see the steam engines while you pick and shop. There will be mini engine rides for children and adults. Pick your own strawberries, raspberries, tayberries, currants, blackberries, veggies and more.

TAKE A WALK around Prestwood Park (the field behind the church) hosted by Virginia Deradour and Tony Marshall on Sunday afternoon at 2pm - meet in the Church car park.

PRESTWOOD THEATRE CLUB present the Ben Elton comedy "Gasping" in conjunction with the Make Poverty History campaign. The play traces the story of the launch of a machine that creates designer air, and the consequences as demand outstrips supply. Performances are tonight at 8pm and tomorrow at 3pm and 8pm. Tickets are £7 and available from the box office on 0709 201 5796 or from Wynyard-Wright Ellis estate agents in Prestwood.

BOUNCE FOR THOMAS BALL at the 24hour trampolining event to commemorate the second anniversary of Tom's passing. This will take place in Great Missenden Memorial Hall from 3pm tomorrow until 3pm on Sunday. Local radio station Mix 107 Summer Roadshow will be broadcasting from the event. The trampoline has been kindly donated by The Entertainer Toy Shop in Amersham and after the event, this will be raffled, tickets will be available during the weekend at £1 each.

PRESTWOOD SOCIETY is organising a visit to The Chiltern Brewery on Tuesday, July 26 meeting at 7.30pm prompt. This visit includes a tour and supper. Tickets which cost £16.95 each are available from Christine Jolly on 01494 865017.