ALI Baba: The Silchester Players’ panto starts on January 31, in the village hall, and continues on February 1, 7 and 8.

Tickets cost £8, concessions £6, and can be purchased by calling 0118 9815600.

ROMAN talk: Professor Fulford will speak on February 14, in the village hall, with news of findings at the summer dig. Tickets £3 adults and children £1. Arrive at 7.40pm for 8pm start. This may be the last year of a “Silchester Dig”.

POST Office: Jay’s Stores, in Pamber Heath, which hosts the Post Office Counter, reports that improvements are to be made to services and opening hours.

The Post Office will close from 12.30pm on Saturday, February 8, and reopen at 1pm, on Monday, February 17. The shop will remain open during alterations.

VILLAGE Market: Takes place on Saturday, February 1, from 10am to noon.

VILLAGE Hall: Work proceeds slowly due to the inclement weather but it is hoped that the Club Room will be back in full use from January 27.

The village has waited a long time for this extension and look forward to a finishing date and new facilities.