It looked like a surf board

Poised at an odd angle among the bric-a-brac, the ultra large boots attached to its surface got a few curious stares. Where else but at Post Wobegon's jumble sale would a snow-surfer be on sale on the very day the sport was introduced as a competitive sport in the Winter Olympics? Not only does this annual jumble sale, and hopefully the bulk of its content, move with the times, it is also up-to-the-minute with the times. This one was to raise funds towards providing hard tennis courts for the village. A record number of toys were stacked in the committee room. "Never have I seen so many toys at a jumble sale," said Bev. I was asked to man the men's clothing tables. "It will be quieter for you," I was told. I was secretly relieved that these received the prompt attention of the good-natured dealers and car boot enthusiasts who had been queuing at the door for more than an hour. We are not usually addressed as "madam" said one. "Madam you are in a very posh village and standards of courtesy must be maintained," I replied. I wonder if this prompted these well-built ladies elbowing their way through the pile of men's clothing to load up with even more bargains. I just hoped that these and the unmistakable perfume left over from gentlemen's excuse me's was promptly dissipated early the next morning in car boot sales throughout the region. The next day being cold and wet with rain pouring down, I doubt it. What happened to the snow surfer? It has been photographed, so has a water surfer and a two-man tent and all three are now for sale on e-Bay. No more puns please. The sale has so far raised more than £1,000. Mary needs to raise over £30,000. It will take time. She will reach her goal - she knows which strings to pull. She is married to David, a sports writer for The Times. JILL MARSHALL