I AM pleased to report that restrictions have now been eased for walkers on many public footpaths around the village. However, new red restricted-access notices have been posted replacing the No Entry notices. The new signs ask walkers to observe certain restrictions including not approaching farm animals. Some of the old No Entry signs remain where footpaths cross open fields.

The new signs, in practice, appear to offer few restrictions to the average walkers.

THE Butterfly Walk, organised by Downley Common Preservation Society last Saturday was reasonably attended, but sadly, due to the cold weather only four butterflies were seen. However, Roger Kemp, gave a very interesting commentary on the habitat of butterflies, how they exist and what they feed on and different species of flowers which butterflies like.

NEXT Thursday, May 17, the AGM of the Downley Guide and Scouts will be held at the Guide and Scout Centre, Coates Lane. On the agenda is a review of the past year's activities, the election of officers for the coming year, and a brief report from one of the Scouts or Guides from each group.