Far from being a sleepy village, there are always plenty of things to do in Stanford. You could join the local Quiz night, aptly named “Think and Drink” at the Stanford Art Cafe on Thursday 2 July. The popular Paprika restaurant has re-opened under new management, and has exciting new menus for breakfast, lunch and supper.

Or you could explore your creative side, and join in on a Life Drawing class, run by Nikki Miles every Monday evening from 6 - 8pm at Stanford Galleries.

The library is buzzing, with loads of activities for the children during the holidays - and while they’re busying themselves there, pop into the newly opened Beauty Spot for a treatment.

This morning at 04:00, the Weather Bureau issued a national warning of very cold conditions on the high ground, very rough seas and wave heights exceeding 5 metres. Hikers were evacuated from the Otter Trail on Wednesday, and the trail has been closed until conditions clear. The camp site at Natures Valley reported that lapping waves had reached as high as the top of the wheels of hikers’ cars parked there!

The good news from the village of Stanford, is that the weather will start improving from the weekend, with a warm and sunny week ahead. Temperatures will edge up to a pleasant 24 on Thursday!

Spare a thought for those in our communities who don’t have the luxury of a warm home and snuggly clothes and consider clearing out your old winter clothes….it’ll make you feel warm inside!