It has been another busy and productive year for our Parish Council, and I am pleased to present this report summarising our key activities, challenges, and achievements over the past twelve months
Council Activities and Governance
The Council met regularly throughout the year, maintaining a full schedule of meetings to discuss planning applications, community priorities, and local services. Attendance from councillors remained strong, and I would like to extend my thanks to all members for their ongoing commitment and contributions. We have continued to review and update our standing orders and financial regulations to ensure transparency and good governance.
Community Events
This year saw the successful return of several community events, including the Remembrance Sunday Service and our Christmas Switch On Event, all of which were very well attended and helped bring the community together. The Parish Hall continued to serve as a hub for local groups and activities, with bookings steadily increasing. We also produced 3 newsletters for the community which is an essential way to keep parishioners up to date with events and happenings in the local community. This is always well received by residents.
Projects and Infrastructure
Among our key projects, the newly installed play area at St Johns Park has been warmly received by local families and well used. The Parish Council continues to support the running of defibrillators at key locations by purchasing replacement pads and batteries when needed. General maintenance of our green spaces and cemetery continues with the highest of standards we have to come to expect. We also set up a dog fouling initative to help clean up our village green and paths. Signage at key problem areas were installed which has seen a decrease in fouling.
Environmental Initiatives
Continuing our commitment to sustainability, we continue to encourage the wildflower planting areas which support pollinators and biodiversity on the village green, these include a rare crocus and blue grass. Litter-picking volunteers made a tremendous effort this year, and I’m grateful to everyone who joined our community clean-up.
Financial Overview
The Council has managed its finances responsibly, keeping the precept increase to a minimum while still delivering improvements for residents. We supported by County Councillor Rhys Burriss who offered funding sources of £3000 to support local groups throughout the parish. The Parish Council itself offered over £5000 in donations to local groups.
Thanks and Acknowledgements
I would like to thank our Clerk and our Handyman for their professionalism and support throughout the year. Thanks also go to our Parish Cuncillors and County Councillor for their continued cooperation, this included welcoming Councillors Rob Geddes, Pauline Adams and for a brief period Tracey Wilson. Also a special thank to all residents who have attended meetings or written to share their views.
Finally, I wish to recognise the sense of community spirit that defines our parish. The efforts of volunteers, local businesses, and residents alike make this a wonderful place to live, and the Council looks forward to building on this success in the year ahead
Councillor Victoria Bell
