The EPTA scales competition was an excellent occasion. It was very well attended and everybody enjoyed it very much. To anybody who didn't come along because they thought that an afternoon of scales would be "boring", let me say that it was anything but. There was a small prize for everybody who took part, and a larger prize for the actual winners. Joy Austin, an examiner for the ABRSM, gave a very interesting talk about how to practise scales and how to increase the exam mark in the scales section. Every one of my pupils who took part in this has really benefited hugely. And then, of course, there was the wonderful tea with delicious cakes. A thoroughly enjoyable and useful afternoon. Thanks to everyone who took part and to everyone who helped out. Especially to the Garcia family, who made us so welcome in their house.