Christine Pinnock has recently taken over as our eyes and ears in the village following the retirement of Franklin Waring (80) who has been the Gazette’s correspondent for around 16 years.

He is stepping down due to other commitments elsewhere in the parish.

“I think Christine will make a good correspondent. She is on the parish hall committee and is a member of the parish church,” he said.

“I would like to thank all the residents and I hope they will continue giving their news to Christine.”

Mr Waring, who has lived in Hawsker for 21 years, said as part of his role he has enjoyed dealing with Bernice Smith, the Gazette’s editorial assistant and compiler of the paper’s Community Noticeboard and Down Your Way pages.

Christine (67), who has lived in Hawsker for five years, is looking forward to the challenge ahead but is still adjusting to her new role.

She said: “It is all a bit confusing. I’m still finding my feet but it’s something that has to be done.

“It’s a case of pricking up my ears and anything else I hear I shall note down in my little book.”

Mr Waring, a well-known figure in the village, says he will continue offering Christine the benefit of his experience if she needs it.

She said: “Franklin came round with his old papers and said any time I need any help I only have to ask him.”

Anyone with any village news for Hawsker should now contact Christine on (01947) 880724.