It's 39 years since the 11-year-old Steven Newing went missing from Fakenham Junior school which means he would have celebrated his 50th birthday this year.

Despite an extensive search at the time, no trace of Steven was ever found.

In October 2001, a votive wrought-iron candle stand was presented to the parish church by Steven's mother Jean as a permanent memorial to her son.

It was made by local craftsman Tom Keeble and has been regularly used since its dedication by parishioners and visitors lighting candles to remember someone important to them.

The inscription on the candle holder reads: "In thanksgiving for the life of Steven Paul Newing. May he rest in peace."

Six months later, Mrs Newing was guest of honour at the opening of the new home for the young homeless in Barons Close which was named Steven Newing House.

Another small landmark in this process of remembrance will be reached on Sunday, April 13, at the 10.30am church service when Mrs Newing presents a sterling silver ciborium which will be regularly used for communion wafers. It, too, will be inscribed with Steven's name.

Everyone is welcome to attend this special event.

• Over the Easter holiday period, two football courses will be run at Fakenham High School.

The first, for youngsters aged eight to 11 years, is from Tuesday, March 25, to Friday, March 28. The second is for 12 to 15-year-olds from Monday, March 31, to Thursday, April 3.

Both courses are from 10am to 3pm each day and are taken by qualified football coach Josh Cooper, a former High School pupil.

The four-day sessions cost £40 and include Easter Egg hunts, prizes and lots of gifts.

As there are only 18 spaces on each course, early booking is advised at Fakenham Sports and Fitness Centre on 01328 850010.

• It was a treat to see the production of High School Musical by students from our very own high school and college.

Over the years I've enjoyed – and sometimes endured – lots of stage extravaganzas in company with the families and friends of all those giving their all to entertain. This one was definitely up there with the best.

The presence of four strong leads made a crucial difference and some of the supporting actors and singers were excellent.

Another notable dimension was the eight-strong band of music students whose drive and energy provided terrific accompaniment.

Such a production was a great credit to heads of music and drama Sylvia Newton and Jenny Soddy. It fully deserved the house full notices which were required for every night of the three-night run. Can we look forward to more?

• Regular readers will know I'm not a fan of the mobile phone which nowadays seems to be a universal requirement. However, did we manage before without them?

Anyway, my plea to all the mums and dads I see walking up and down Norwich Road every day, phones glued to their ears, is simply this: engaging with the lively mobile in your pushchair is far more important than with the static one in your hand.