Littleport has always exerted an attraction.

In 1086 AD, 30 people lived in Littleport. In 1676, 556 adults, in 1851, 3,832 - and now about 12,000 call Littleport home – with building going on apace and a thousand plus more houses in the proverbial pipeline.

There has been a commensurate rise in services over time, including two primary schools and another planned, two secondary educational establishments, one of them specia needs, an excellent medical centre, pharmacies, and a superbly equipped leisure complex.

There are pubs, a club and churches, shops, a delicatessen and dine-in or takeaways for every taste too. And a fire station.

But, combined with its bricks and mortar, the air of sociability – and social conscience - must contribute greatly to Littleport’s charm.

For instance, last weekend spring revels at The Crown Inn netted £1,070 for the prostate cancer charity.

While the Ely Roller Skating Club based at the Littleport Leisure Centre raised £915.89p at its Easter Fun Day towards club funds.

This week is no anti-climax as, on Saturday April 6, at the Littleport Ex-Servicemen’s Club, it’s the 70’s again when All Glammed Up play (£3 members, £5 guests) and, at The Crown, it’s country music with the Wranglers, from 9pm, at both venues.

Saturday morning, 9.30-11.30am, enjoy coffee at St John’s Methodist Church, built 1806, rebuilt 1890.

Sunday 7, from 2-4pm, the Friendship Group for the more mature meets at Littleport village hall. Refreshments, cake, free raffle, sometimes singing, often bingo, £2.

Also, from 2-4pm the Adams Heritage Centre, 17 Main Street, has a display of memorabilia, with tea and coffee available.

On Monday April 8, Littleport Leisure offers more country flavour with line dancing class sessions for all abilities from 10-10.45am.

Also on Monday 8, a fun group with altruism at its core – Littleport Crafters meet fortnightly at Feoffees Hall, from 1-3pm. £3.50p includes refreshments.

Organiser Jenny Stevens says: “Bring your crafts – and sewing machine if needed!

“We aim to make decorations for special Littleport events. Donations of wool, materials, and ideas, are gratefully received.”