Topleft to right: Judges Heather Greenhalgh, and Barclays employees Phil Bateman, Trish Hartley, Peter Cottage (and the winning guy aka Barbie - top right!) photo: Bob Hammett.
Top
left to right: Judges Heather Greenhalgh, and Barclays employees Phil
Bateman, Trish Hartley, Peter Cottage (and the winning guy aka Barbie - top
right!) photo: Bob Hammett.
IT was a perfect night for Linton’s firework display and about 3,200 of us
thought so, gathering expectantly on the infant school’s playing field on 8th
November.
The event kicked off with the Guy Fawkes competition. Out of fifteen or so
excellent entries, Barbie, created by Hannah and Emma Filby, won. The blonde
pony-tailed Guy/girl, dressed in a pink sequined t-shirt and jeans was hoisted
up to the top of the massive fire, built by Peter Thomas, aka Pete the Pyro.
Pete lit the fire, which he had spent all day building, and everyone watched as
it began to cast its glow across the field, Barbie didn’t last long! Soon it was
keeping us warm while we saw the first of the brilliant displays light up the
sky.
Several members of the fireworks committee scurried back and forth on the other
side of the Granta carefully setting off the massive number of rockets, shooting
stars and explosions. Everyone responsible for setting off the fireworks has
attended courses organised by Essex Pyrotechnics based in Newport, who also
supply the £3200 display. They are one of the biggest manufacturers in the UK.
The committee says that when they put in an order for the fireworks they specify
that they want to try to have the quietest fireworks without minimising the
impact of the display. It is not an easy balance to obtain.
The fifteen guys, yes they are all guys (come on ladies, the only prerequisite
for joining is the ability to attend meetings at the pub and downing four-five
pints), who make up the committee are made up of PSA representatives from the
three schools in the village.
The event originally began as a way to raise funds for the school, and this year
each schools will receive £2,100 from the profits. Additionally, the Guides,
Scouts, Air Training Corps and Fire Service, who also help out on the night are
given donations.
This year it was again generously sponsored by Camgrain and Barclays Bank
matched four members of staff’s hard work on the food stalls with a contribution
of £1,800. Over the fourteen years this event has been going £65,000 has been
donated to the three schools.
This is a big event, probably the biggest in the village’s yearly calendar, and
it costs! The fireworks themselves, as Jim McNicholas, the compere, told us,
totalled £3,200, but on top of that, add the safety equipment, the lights, the
music, the stalls and more.
The display ended with several massive rockets going off over our heads. Some
people headed home or to the pub, some warmed themselves at the embers of the
fire, while others downed a last mulled wine and grabbed a burger from a stall.
The next morning, I happened to walk through the field with my dog (the effect
the bangs from the fireworks have on my dog is another story!), and watched in
awe as a whole bunch of people were hard at work replacing the scorched turf.
Thank you to everyone involved for a lovely evening.
Mandy Honeyman
LAST month’s Linton News included the results of our Village Survey. Have you
thrown yours away (in your green box, of course)? Or, are you still curious
about any of the findings it threw up?
Well, maybe you should be, because these results are going to come up again and
again as the Parish and County Council respond to aspirations for our village
over the next few years.
About thirty people were inquisitive enough to join in the Action Planning event
held at the LVC in November. It was organised by the Parish Plan Steering Group
in order to analyse the survey results and move towards the next stage in the
process, drawing up a first-draft village plan.
They split up into five groups: Highways and Traffic, Environment and Wildlife,
Education and Employment, Village Facilities and Planning and Development.
Unsurprisingly, the first two of these were the most popular; they were also the
tables closest to the door, but, surely, that had nothing to do with it?
David Lines, from the county council’s transport department, bravely answered
questions at the traffic table. The good news is that there is a clear majority
view from the village; the one way option for the High Street is wanted. This
means that, at last, there is a decision that will enable the Parish Council and
County Council to move forward to the next stage in getting the Village’s
traffic problems sorted out. How’s that for a result! Moreover, to do nothing,
is simply not an option. The other clear favourites from the survey were traffic
lights at the top of the High Street and a roundabout at the Bartlow Road/A1307
junction.
Over at the environment table, Helen Sharman, the county council’s bio-diversity
project officer, emphasised that in order to get anything done the village
needed a conservation group to co-ordinate applying for funds and organising
activities. And guess what? At this table it was agreed to set up the Linton
Environmental Action Group, which Andy Booth and Alan Lawley will chair. As it
grows, this group will become the liaison between Helen (the money) and
sub-groups that will focus on different environmental issues affecting us, like
a riverside walk, rights of way, bulb planting, Pocket Park conservation and a
whole lot more.
Watch this space, because, yes you’ve guessed it, they are going to need YOU.
At the other three tables the relevant results from the survey were closely
analysed, and with the help of additional information, various ideas were mooted
that will provide a basis for trying to fulfil the village’s wishes for the
future. These include the overwhelming favourites: a swimming pool, small-scale
business support, ensuring the ongoing success of the Linton News and minimising
the impact of new housing. At future meetings these issues will be discussed at
greater depth with the help of specialists.
The purpose of the Parish Plan is to prioritise issues of concern and to get the
Parish and County Council responding directly to the residents’ agenda and
aspirations and to include everyone in planning and making decisions, none of
which can happen without that involvement.
There was an error in the Survey Results printed in the November edition of the
Linton News. The correction is given below.
Household Composition:
Single 60+ (live alone):
10.0% or 128 people
Couple 60+:
19.0% or 243 people
Local people pay tribute (photos: Tracey Wilson)
ON Rememberance Sunday, following a service in St. Mary’s Church, there was
a parade to Linton Cemetery where wreaths of poppies were laid at the war
memorial by various Linton groups. The Last Post was played by a member of the
Air Training Corps.
Tracey Wilson
NEWLY formed Linton Junior Badminton Club has just received a grant of £4,999
from ‘Awards For All’ to help develop badminton in the Linton area.
Based at Linton Sports Centre, the club aims to carry on the excellent work
already going on at the Heights and other local primary schools and LVC.
The club is open to those children in years 5, 6 and 7, and aims to develop
children’s skills through coaching sessions, and introduce helpers to coaching
through attending coaching courses. The club meets every Friday from 4 - 5pm at
Linton Sports Centre.
If you would like your child to attend, or to offer your help with organising
the club, please contact Mark Wilson at the sports centre on 890248
Mark Wilson
John Lill with Linton Music Society committee members at the inauguration
recital of the new piano
UNLIKE violins, pianos do not improve with age. The Music Society has a
remarkably fine track record over the past 40 years of attracting nationally
famous soloists in its enterprising musical seasons. A replacement for the old
disintegrating Bechstein was therefore long overdue if standards were to be
maintained.
Thanks to tireless fund-raising efforts by the friends and members of the
Society, almost enough money has been raised for the purchase of a splendid new
Yamaha.
There could not have been a finer recital for its first appearance than that
given by John Lill on Saturday 15th November.
Since he won the prestigious Tchaikovsky prize in 1972 John Lill has been a
pianist of world-wide renown.
During Saturday’s concert he introduced with helpful clarity and good humour a
programme of sonatas by Mozart and Beethoven and the Brahms ‘Variation on a
Theme’ by Handel.
There was a full house. The audience, spellbound by the performance, left full
of gratitude for such an exhilarating, profound and exciting evening.
Juliet Abrahamson
THE Cambridge Youth Orchestra, under their conductor Peter Britten will be
performing a concert in aid of the piano fund at 3pm on Saturday 6th December at
Linton Village College.
The programme will include Stravinsky Movements from La Baisée du Fée, Arturs
Makats’ Tango and Bruckner Symphony No 4 in E flat . There will also be a sale
of Christmas goodies!
Tickets are available on the door and further information is available
Juliet Abrahamson
ALL of the fire cover in South Cambridgeshire is provided by Retained Fire
Stations. That’s five stations wholly crewed by part time firefighters - one of
which is Linton.
Retained Firefighters are men and women who are on-call at certain times during
the week. They may be on call in their own time or in work time (with the
support of their employer).
Retained Firefighters can expect to attend fires, road traffic accidents and
support all kinds of other incidents and are able to provide a service to
friends and neighbours in a very practical way.
Unfortunately, this service is not running at its full capacity, which can lead
to delays in attending fires. We rely upon people in the local community to keep
this service running and are in urgent need of Retained Firefighters for Linton
and the surrounding areas.
We can offer a satisfying, exciting and varied career as a firefighter with the
aim of: "protecting people and property from fire and other hazards in the most
safe, competent and effective manner". To be eligible you must: be at least 18
years of age (there is no upper age limit but retirement is at age 55), live or
work within five minutes travelling time of your local fire station, be
medically and physically fit, have good eyesight and hearing and be literate and
numerate.
You will be paid an annual retaining fee (fixed) and a payment for each call-out
or additional duties. The fees are currently: firefighter annual retaining fee
(1-3 years service) £1,809.00, turn-out fee £13.41, attendance fee £7.28, drill
night attendance fee £11.76, extra duties fee (hourly) £5.97.
Recruitment is on-going and we hold approximately five recruitment courses per
year. A holding list of suitable candidates runs for two years, and vacancies
are filled by people from the holding list. Initial training is a two week
course at Huntingdon (Monday to Friday each week), for which loss-of-earnings is
payable if you need to take unpaid leave from your employer.
Retained Firefighters must attend a two-hour training session (drill night) once
a week, which is on a Wednesday in Linton. Your community needs you.
For more information or if you have any queries or would like to receive a copy
of our information pack please call %01480 444539 or 376253 and leave your
details. Alternatively, please feel free to attend a drill night and talk to
Sub- Officer Alan Baker. Kevin Smith
OVER the Christmas period, Linton Sports Centre will be closed only on
Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. For full details of opening times
call 890248.
During this time you can either come and use the sports centre during the day on
a casual basis, or children can join in the multi sports mornings from 10am -
12.30pm.
For more information call 890248.
Mark Wilson
TRICIA welcomed visitors, including a few brave husbands attending the WI
November open meeting. An inscribed carafe was presented by Brian Wingfield in
memory of his wife Margaret, a former WI member.
Volunteers who had helped at the October jumble sale were thanked and although
it was hard work, £155 was raised towards funds.
Eileen Impey read her report on the Autumn Council meeting where guest speaker,
Jenny Bond spoke of her 14 years as BBC Royal Correspondent.
Business over, Mike Petty, well-known Cambridge Evening News reporter was
introduced. His enthusiastic talk on Cambridge at War 1939-1945 included slides
of newspaper reports throughout these war years. The town received many
evacuees; some were killed in the first bomb dropped on Cambridge. Students left
to join the forces and college laboratories were utilised to develop war
weaponry. The Leas School was used as a military hospital and the students
evacuated to Scotland.
Many changes took place in Cambridge and despite much sadness and great loss of
life during this time, Mike Petty was able to find many amusing incidents to
lighten the talk. Anne Simpkin thanked him and mentioned her early years in
Cambridge during this time.
2nd December is the next meeting (the Christmas Dinner) and members are asked to
bring along a wrapped Christmas present.
Cynthia Norris.
Dear Editor
Anyone with an ounce of common sense must surely realise that a firework display
and zoological gardens in such close proximity are not in any way compatible.
Once again, we were sad to see that there was no consideration for the residents
of Linton Zoo or other people and animals in the village.
Perhaps only when we present people with the carcase of a rare Siberian Tiger or
a Grevy’s Zebra, or of a baby zoo animal that has smashed itself to bits, will
people finally consider moving the event further away.
I am sure, within reason, no one has a problem with the prettiness of a display,
but it seems that fireworks have to get unacceptably louder and louder to
impress and attract.
Kim Simmons
Linton Zoo
Dear Editor
I have never been so cross about anything in my whole life.
My anger started when my front window was broken two weeks ago by a catapult, so
I had to call in the police. Adding to my anger is the fact that the new wheelie
bins are only emptied once a fortnight, so I have two weeks of dog poo mounting
up in my bin as the dog bins around Linton have been destroyed by an arsonist.
But the last straw has been the change in the bus service.
I have worked at the Junior School in Abington as a lunchtime supervisor for 11
years but now may have to give up a job I love (and a position that will be
difficult to fill) simply because I cannot get there any more
– and I know I am not the only person with this predicament.
Linton and Abington are no longer linked by a bus service, as the 13, that goes
through Linton, bypasses Abington, and vice versa with the 13A. I have to walk
up to the Police Houses to catch a bus to work, which is a good 20 minutes walk
(not so bad in summer, but hard in winter) then take my life into my hands by
crossing the A1307. Surely there should have been some consultation between the
Stagecoach Head Office and us, the local users of the service. The drivers (who
incidentally are as confused by the new timetable as we are) have disliked
Linton High Street for a long time, but something needs to be done, now, to stop
this nonsense. It’s fine if we want to travel to Haverhill or Cambridge, but
Linton and Abington have had strong links for a long time and there is a real
danger that the link will be broken.
I am letting your readers know how upset I am, in the hope that it will prompt
some residents to write to the local MP.
I love living in Linton, but my husband is threatening to move us out, just to
stop me from moaning!
Name and address supplied.
Dear Editor
What a shame Mr Crofts failed to read my letter correctly.
I am not suggesting the High Street should be closed. What I and the majority at
the public meeting voted for was to close the High Street to through traffic
which, coupled with the construction of a roundabout would allow through
traffic, a safe access on to the main road and avoid the village centre.
M R K Holden
Dear Editor
Linton Granta Playgroup and Toddlers had an amazing response to their appeal for
a computer and now have a computer up and running. It is already a big hit with
the children and will be of great benefit to the playgroup.
We would like to say a big thank you to all those who made offers – especially
Sue Lambert of Saffron Walden, Pat Cropper of Hadstock, Kate France of Linton
and Will of Hadstock.
Liz Crump
Dear Editor
The Linton and District Branch of Save The Children would like to thank all
those who have supported their recent events. £673 was raised at the
concert in West Wratting church and the coffee mornings and sale of Christmas
cards and gifts raised £331 in Hildersham and £283 in Linton.
Judith White
Anne Bradley takes on the clarinet challenge
DID you know that a local piano teacher, Anne Bradley, who also moonlights as a
violin player in the Cambridge String Players is taking part in a
‘Grade-one-a-thon’ for charity?
The task is to learn a new instrument (Anne’s choice is the clarinet) in just
eight weeks, then take a Grade 1 exam and perform in a concert on 29th February.
The participating musicians, who are mostly teachers, are raising money in aid
of East Anglia Children’s Hospices (EACH). They hope to raise a lot of money
that will be used to help care for terminally ill children, and help their
families through bereavement.
If you would like to sponsor Anne you can contact her at 4 Symonds Lane or go
online at www.justgiving.com/bradley. Anne says "the task promises to be great
fun" and adds, "it will also be an interesting
exercise to remind us of what we put our pupils through every lesson!"
Please give generously to this worthwhile cause.
Anne Bradley
WE now have a new online discussion forum at
www.linton.info.
There are already a number of things being talked about, like wheelie bins,
traffic problems and the firework display.
The idea of this forum is to give everyone a chance to talk about anything,
particularly anything to do with the village.
Log on and have your say. Each month we intend to publish a summary of some of
the subjects under discussion in Linton News.
For the time being Mandy (www.linton.info editor) will be keeping an eye on the
discussion, but if anyone else would like to take on the job of forum moderator,
please let her know.
Don’t be left out... speak up and join in today.
Mandy Honeyman
MY wife Colleen and I are professional advisors to ‘Children in Distress’, a
charity set up in 1990 to help children in Romania who are dying of AIDS.
We have just returned from a visit there, where we found a small centre that has
just opened in the mountains, providing holidays for under-privileged children
from the cities.
They are desperate for Wellington boots and waterproof coats for the children,
who are aged from 6 to 16 years.
If there is anyone in the village who has such items that they no longer need,
and would like to donate them to this centre, we would be very grateful. Colleen
and I will ensure that any donated items do get to the centre.
Please telephone us. If there is no reply when you phone, please leave a message
with your name and contact number. Thank you.
Dr Derek Lockstone
WE can’t help noticing that there has been a decline in articles being
submitted to the Linton News recently. Do you have news to share, an event to
publicise or an achievement you want everyone to know about? Then why not send
it in to us?
The Linton News is the village’s most widely used source of information about
events and occurrences within and around Linton. It is delivered free to every
house in Linton as well as in Hildersham, Hadstock and Bartlow.
You can write about any subject that will be of interest to our community,
whether it be a sponsored bath in a tub full of maggotts or a day in the life of
a retained Fireman (now there’s an idea!).
We prefer the articles to be written by you so that the paper better reflects
individual personalities but if you would prefer us to help, we will!
Articles can be placed in the Linton News box at the post office or emailed to
the Editor at LNeditor@linton.info.
The deadline for the January issue is 8th December (due to Christmas holidays).
So come on, tell the village your news. We look forward to hearing from you! LNT
Many people enjoy the fresh produce available at the market
A YEAR of success has followed the decision made by Steve Barker and Charlie
Baker to start up a Farmers’ market at Chilford Hall.
Following the huge success of the Farmers’ market in Long Melford, Steve,
and Charlie, (who readers may have visited at his organic farm on the A1307 at
Abington) decided to bring the same facilities to the villages around
Linton. The biggest problem was finding a suitable venue, but the central barn
at Chilford Hall has proved to be just the place.
Since starting the Farmers’ market in September last year, numbers of visitors
have steadily increased, from around 200 to over 500. The market operates from
10a.m. until 1p.m. on the first Saturday of the month and December’s market will
provide local people with the opportunity to pick up a few original and unusual
presents for friends and family for Christmas.
The stalls incorporate a large range of products from fresh fish, meat,
vegetables and cheeses to organically baked bread, fresh herbs and deliciously
made cakes and preserves. "We had hoped it would be successful", said Charlie,
"but it has become a popular trip for many people who enjoy really good,
unprocessed and wholesome food."
Jan Lupton
HOW often do friends recommend a book as a ‘really good read,’ and you mean
to track it down but don’t quite get round to it? Since joining the Linton
Reading Group I’ve enjoyed several books I would never have chosen myself.
I became interested in the Group when I heard they had read Jules Verne’s
‘Around the World in Eighty Days’ which had led me on to ‘Twenty Thousand
Leagues Under the Sea."
I visited Wigan Pier to see why it was a Music Hall joke as a result of the
Group recommending Bill Bryson’s ‘Notes from a Small Island,’ but I found John
Grisham’s ‘The Firm’ rather frightening.
The six-weekly meetings in the Dog & Duck (next meeting 7th January, buy your
own drink) are fairly casual and are for discussing the current two books and
suggesting ideas for the next library loan. Members read either or both books,
providing the library can obtain sufficient copies.
Everyone is welcome providing they hold membership of Cambridgeshire Library -
joining is simply a matter of visiting the library with identification and
completing a short form.
The chosen books are loaned to members for a six month period – presumably
Cambridgeshire Libraries think we are very slow readers!
Kate France
AROUND Christmas, people start thinking about what will happen to them in the
next year. Sometimes there are worries for the older adult about their mobility;
maybe the middle aged think everything is ‘heading south’ (not just for the
winter); the younger person may be worried about getting into their swimming
costume next summer. If you come along to The Fitness Suite you will receive an
induction into how to use the equipment and be given advice that is specific to
your needs. So no matter what your age, from 14 - 90, we will help you achieve
your goals for the coming year. You will start to see results within 6 weeks of
starting to do some exercise. For those just getting back on their feet there’s
the GP Referral scheme. If you would like to buy yourself (or someone else) a
different Christmas present, then why not consider membership. Call 890248 for
more information.
Mark Wilson
Tracey Wilson captures a fleeting autumn moment. (photo: Jan Shambrook)
THE spectacular colours and tantalising light of this autumn were captured by
Camera Club members with a wonderful visit to Houghton and Houghton Mill,
between St Ives and Wyton, on 9th November.
The scenes, rich in reds and yellows and including the historic mill, combined
with the kind, if cold, weather to make it another very successful photographic
expedition.
Overall the Sunday morning produced some spectacular pictures – even from those
of us, like me, who are not expert but just ‘point and click’ to see what comes
out.
Houghton, like Linton, has some wonderful old buildings as well as a river. Our
subjects included a fisherman, lady rowers being trained, old soldiers
assembling for the Remembrance Day Service, and a host of other eye catching
subjects.
Members who went on the trip included new member Richard Smith – if you are
interested in photography, you will be very welcome at the Camera Club, which
meets every second Sunday of the month.
Mostly, we get out to take photographs but our next meeting will be at 10am on
14th December at the Social Centre. We will be showing photographs and enjoying
a glass of something seasonal – why not come along and meet your fellow village
snappers?
More information is available from John Keeble or you can see our 2004 programme
at our website at www.camclub.info, or you can just turn up for the next
meeting.
Jan Shambrook
OUR Mobile Warden has been working in Linton for two years now, helping older
people stay independent within their own homes. The scheme is part of Activities
and Care for the Elderly, a charity run by volunteers, aimed to fill a gap in
care provision not covered by the NHS or Social Services. We had originally
expected 20 clients, but with extra funding we were able to increase this to 25.
However, there are currently 29 clients.
The Warden (employed by Age Concern Cambridge, another charity) is trying to
help wherever possible as need arises but there remains a waiting list. New
clients are taken on according to medical or social need, but we do not have the
resource to help everyone. We estimated that each year over 7,000
contacts/visits are made – a hefty workload for anyone! Thanks are due to the
Warden for her hard work and for the difference she has made to so many lives.
The results of the Parish Plan questionnaire gave us good ratings – we were
placed amongst the professional and statutory services, although we are a
voluntary community group. That so many more people responded to the question
than are actually on the scheme, shows that the village is aware of us. However,
if you have concerns or have ideas to help us to improve, then let us know. Next
time we want a 100% approval rating!
The warden scheme is funded by grants from Cambridgeshire County, South Cambs
District and Linton Parish Councils, from contributions from clients, donations
(one of £160 was gratefully received) and fund raising. Many thanks to all who
help us – your help is much appreciated. Extra volunteers are always welcome,
particularly with the social events, so if you could help us contact Enid.
The social events will continue, using funds raised locally, but we are hoping
that the grant applications will be successful.
The next event is a trip to Scotsdales on 11th December, leaving the Social
Centre at 1 o’clock. The coach is free and all older people are welcome. Please
book with Gill/Dawn on 891001.
A meeting is planned for the New Year – light refreshments and a speaker or
entertainment – to add a little joie de vivre post-Christmas. Details will be
posted when we have had inspiration and the effects of the Christmas spirits and
puds have worn off. Enid Bald
HAVE you noticed that all the dog poo bins in Linton have disappeared and all
that is left are bare posts?
To us dog lovers this annoyance is all due to a 10p box of matches in the wrong
hands destroying bins and causing inconvenience to dog owners and, I suspect,
other members of our parish.
To replace all the bins is going to cost over £2200 and the Parish Council is
unable to replace them until next year’s budget.
The first edition of the News had dog mess as an issue and unfortunately 16
years later it is still with us.
Graham Potter
The members of 1st Linton Brownies enjoying their day out
ON 18th October, 16 children and nine adults could be seen piling into their
cars about to make their way to Wimpole Hall and Home Farm. This group of people
consisted of the families and members of the 1st Linton Brownie Pack.
The day was a great success, thanks to the wonderful weather and the enthusiasm
of all the children, who were delighted to spend the morning at the Home Farm,
seeing the feeding of the pigs, goats, chickens and many other animals. The
group then went on to Wimpole Hall, learning about the historical elements of
the building and its grounds. The children were able to take advantage of the
outdoor equipment as well as enjoying the Victorian toys inside the house.
Everyone said what a fantastic time they had.
1st Linton Brownies would welcome any other girls aged 7-10 years; the pack meet
on a Monday evening in the Linton Infants School hall from 6-7.30pm. If you
would like more information, come along to one our meetings. Sian Thorne
SEVENTY-ONE year old Andy Booth, known to many Linton children from his days
as Lollipop Man at the Infants’ School, is becoming a Master Rotter.
When he heard of his elderly neighbours’ reluctance to accept the new green
wheelie bins, he thought of starting a communal compost heap in his front
garden.
Andy applied for Master Composter training sessions with HDRA Consultants,
working in partnership with Cambridge city, district and county councils. He
attended Hinchingbrooke Country Park to learn the theory of composting as part
of waste management and visited Ryton Organic Gardens near Coventry for a
practical session on techniques of home composting.
To gain a Master Composter’s Certificate Andy now has to give 30 hours community
service promoting composting by talks, demonstrations or practical help.
He is therefore keen for people to contact him by phone , or by e-mailing him at
andy @frank-booth.freeserve.co.uk or to call at 9 Chalklands, Linton.
Andy can show videos, provide literature and help start a home compost bin. He
says his neighbours need never use the green wheelie bins and could produce
useful compost in their discarded dustbins.
Kate France
MORE than 20 teams took part in a Quiz’n’Cakes afternoon organised by the
Friends of Linton Heights last month. Over £220 was raised, to be contributed
towards computer equipment and extra-curricular activities.
Keith Savill, quizmaster, set a series of questions on subjects from general
knowledge to song lyrics, including a particularly challenging ‘mystery face’
round.
The winning team, Drinking Salad, which consisted of members of the Glover,
Omand-Lewis and Orriss families, were presented with a trophy and bottles of
champagne, while the best children’s team won a big box of sweets to share.
Throughout the afternoon, members served mulled wine and a staggering variety of
home-made cakes, which ensured that nobody went home hungry! Tony Kelly
WHAT a difference a week makes! This time last week the
anticipation and to some extent anxiety about the impending Ofsted inspection of
the College was increasing by the hour. Twelve inspectors were to spend the best
part of four days getting into every aspect of the College that they could. They
arrived, along with the rain and the gloomy days of the last week, and set up
their base in the Chilford Room. This meant that several adult classes had to be
moved but they were insistent that they needed plenty of space to meet, lay out
their papers and write. Large amounts of pupils' work was gathered for them and
a detailed schedule of meetings and interviews drawn up to enable them to meet
as many staff, pupils, governors and parents as they felt they needed to.
For the team the early part of the inspection is all about evidence gathering
and they wade through huge amounts from the pupil work already mentioned to
policy documents, the questionnaires and the school's own internal evaluations.
Then the lesson observations begin. Days two and three are largely given over to
these although they can happen at any time during the inspection. Within this
time lots of informal discussions and meetings take place to test out any
emerging themes or issues. In our case a large number of pupils were included in
the discussions and I am delighted to say that the inspectors were very
impressed indeed by their willingness to talk in depth about life at LVC.
So now, as I write this (late again), it's all over and the preliminary findings
have been shared with us. I cannot go in- to detail, that will have to wait
until the publication of the final report in January, but things are looking
very good indeed. And that 'very good is deliberately chosen because in Ofsted-speak
it has a specific meaning. It's just short of 'excellent' which is as near to
perfection as can be achieved and consequently, very rare. It's nice to be able
to say that among all the 'very good' judgements of LVC, there is a healthy
scattering of 'excellent's. So for LVC this inspection has been an uplifting and
confirming experience. Stress levels were very high but the outcome has been
just what we hoped for. I believe the same can be said for the Heights and the
Infant school both of whom have been inspected in the same period.
But (have you noticed there's always a but?) you have to ask if this intense and
time consuming process is really needed for schools that the data tell us are
already doing well. Should not the full monty be kept for those schools that are
struggling and need the investment of time that goes with inspection, advice and
guidance? Is it sensible to distribute the £200 million that school inspections
cost each year, in this way? Answers on one side of A4 to Her Majesty's Chief
Inspector please, not me!
Clive Bush, Principal
AZTEC'S will be holding their popular New Year's Eve Dance at
Linton Village College, eight 'til Late. There will be a disco and karaoke plus
buffet raffle and bar.
This year it will be fancy dress (optional) with a theme of Cowboys and Indians,
so come get your stomping boots on and join in the fun!
Tickets are only available in advance and will sell fast. Contact Peter Belsom
to reserve yours.
Max Penfold
ANDREW Peters' captivating talk on the gardens of Western
Scotland came as a surprise to many who hadn't realised that the area enjoys
special climatic conditions which allow almost sub-tropical planting. Given the
right protection from winds and salt-laden air provided by a combination of
shrubs and managed taller trees, plants native to South America, South Africa,
China and the Himalayas will flourish.
Surprisingly, Ullapool is almost on the same latitude as Leningrad which has
great contrast between summer and winter weather, but the Gulf stream
facilitates a mild and moist climate all year for the west coast of Scotland
where you could be fooled into thinking that you are visiting a garden in
Singapore. Giant redwoods also thrive; indeed all species seem to grow much
bigger than we are used to seeing in England.
Mr Peters, now a garden designer, trained at the Botanic gardens in Cambridge
and can boast a spell as head gardener at Michael Heseltine's private garden in
Northamptonshire. However, his recommendation to visit these islands with
unpronounceable names came with a warning that a good stomach is definitely an
asset when travelling on the ferries!
This month's get-together will be a social evening with members' slides and a
quiz accompanied by mince pies and mulled wine (please bring a glass). We hope
to meet up with all our members, and visitors will be very welcome.
Gloria Fidler
THE winners of November's K-Club monthly draw:
1st (£50) Jackie Hall (No. 117); 2nd (£25) J Rossiter (No. 235); 3rd (£10) John
Harpur (No. 030)
IN all the precious years we've known, can you remember such
gold and bronze and copper hanging from the trees? If ancient Incas and Egyptian
Pharaohs could wake and see, green with envy they would be! The weather experts
claim October was the coldest for ten years, yet also the sunniest. And now they
say look out at night upon clear skies, for a chance to see the Northern lights.
Alas, time has flown and soon we will illume for the sake of peace and Christ.
Some of you have asked me why the leaves change their colours and what produces
such stunning autumn tones. Well, to be honest I could fill the entire Linton
news with the full explanation so here is my concise version. During spring and
summer the leaves work like little factories transforming carbon- dioxide and
water into carbohydrates, like sugar and starch, as food for the tree. Some
cells in the leaf contain that almost magical chemical chlorophyll which turns
sunlight into the energy needed for this process. It is the chlorophyll which
gives the leaf its green colour and masks others, but in autumn and winter this
chemical breaks down revealing pigments such as carotenes, as found in carrots.
Further chemical changes take place creating those brilliant reds, more evident
when cold and sunny but not freezing.
A friend and I have been chasing golden sunsets. Driving here and there to
capture on film the recent spectacular events in the Cambridgeshire skies. For
instance, the clouds change their form with such rapidity in that last twenty
minutes of sundown, but it is then one has the chance to experience a moment of
ultra- splendour as the suns rays skim and highlight the rise of land around
Linton. The long rays of autumn's light paint the trees with changing colours
unlike any other season.
Once again my eye is drawn towards that beautiful old plane tree by The Dog &
Duck, for it reacts like no other tree I know! Little by little without a
whisper it sheds its bark and with it, so some say, all the toxic pollutants
absorbed over the year, thus protecting the main body. As the bark falls away it
creates an exotic patchwork and when the sunlight catches the freshly exposed
surface of bough and trunk, white and dazzling, a veritable masterpiece is born.
Something else I note is unusual about this tree! The winter buds form within a
kind of sheath ready for next spring from which will emerge a hairy leaf. In
some parts of France, at one point in time, it was forbidden to plant a plane
tree near a school. This came about I suspect from concerns over the tiny hairs
that drop from the leaves and fruit believed to cause breathing problems and
give people colds. No fear of that here, as the damp atmosphere soon brings the
hairs to ground. Everything about this tree seems geared to maximise its
survival. One might question why this particular tree above so many has
developed such a complex and elaborate life security system?
The village firework displays came and went in a flash! I've never quite worked
out what it is we are celebrating. Is it the failure, or the attempt of Guy
Fawkes' plot? How's that for freedom of choice?
Whilst the fires died to but a glow and the air hung heavy with spent gunpowder,
a fitting and natural phenomenon occurred for viewing by night-owls such as
myself. The earth cast a dark shadow over the brilliant moon who dressed in a
triple halo during a lunar eclipse. The full moon for a while could be seen as a
shimmering copper disc which brought us to Remembrance Sunday.
Merry Christmas everyone!
FOLLOWING their successful summer and autumn term pre- and after school clubs, Linton 11+ Club will again be opening their doors to children during the Christmas holidays. Originally for 11year olds and upwards only, the club is now able to accept 10 year olds, with siblings as young as 8 years. For more information and booking on the Christmas and term - time activities, call Mark Wilson
PARISH COUNCIL MATTERS
Top
LOCAL democracy is one of those concepts that is fine in theory, but hard in
practice. People have busy lives, too busy to be involved in all aspects of
local affairs, which is why we deal with these matters. But some issues are so
important that they need the direct input of everyone affected – the residents,
the ratepayers.
As you can see from Mike Gee’s article on policing support, the Parish Council
felt unable to reach a decision on whether to fund a PCSO. We had no overall
view of the efficacy of this type of policing, which would involve a significant
increase in the Parish rate. We also feel strongly that the village is not being
properly policed as part of the underfunding of police services in
Cambridgeshire by central government. It was felt that the opinion of the
village was needed as the impact could be significant and long term. The running
of the village is not just in the hands of the Parish Council, but is the
responsibility of us all; your opinion will help us in this decision. Do you
want to pay extra tax for this extra level of protection?
To meet Quality Status criteria we need to increase the interest and involvement
of villagers in local issues. Parish Council meetings are open to all, with time
set aside for public participation. We have the annual Parish Meeting, and now
there is a suggestion that there should be "surgeries" with the committee
chairmen. Open meetings will continue to be called to discuss particular issues.
For instance, the future of the area of land next to Paynes Meadow will soon be
debated with residents, Hundred Housing and other interested parties. We will
soon be meeting to set the parish precept, deciding how much money is needed and
how this could be best spent. Councillors will submit projects for
consideration, ongoing ventures will apply for support, etc. Local groups can
also apply for grants to fund capital items; requests should be sent to the
Parish Clerk by 9th December, if your group needs support. The running of the
village is a matter for us all, not just when it comes to election time. Your
thoughts and opinions will help us to make the correct decisions.
Enid Bald
Local police officers
A POLICE presence permanently in Linton, and our very own Traffic Warden as
well. Marvellous! Is there is catch? Of course there is but it may just be worth
it.
Police Community Support Officers are the new idea from Government – their job
will be somewhere between a policeman and a traffic warden. At the moment six of
them are designated for 50 villages in the district jointly funded by Central
Government and South Cambridgeshire District Council.
Half a dozen PCSO’s, as they are being called, will hardly make a difference
between all those villages. However, there is the opportunity to have their
presence all the time in Linton – if we are prepared to pay for one or more.
And the cost – just £27,300 a year each! The second catch is a recommendation
that it would be better to have at least two to cover Linton over a reasonable
period of time each day. In other words, a PCSO will need time to do paper work,
have lunch and tea breaks, or dinner and supper breaks, and would not be on the
streets even six hours in every 24.
However, many will feel that the cost may be worth it. At the moment we are
lucky to see our local PC for a few minutes every day if that. There is no doubt
that a permanent PCSO would make a difference to those things which are so
aggravating in the village – parking on double yellow lines, vandalism, underage
drinking, etc. It is important to understand that a PCSO will have limited
powers of arrest, but will be able to levy parking tickets and other fines.
Our precept (the rate charged by the Parish Council) for 2003-2004 is around
£84,000 and with all our obligations there will be nothing left to employ a PCSO.
So basically it would mean a large increase in the Parish rates – around £16.10
per household – for just one PCSO.
The question is are you willing to pay the extra for somebody to help keep the
peace in the village?
LET US KNOW through the Parish Council Tel: 891001, Fax: 891001, email lintonpc@btconnect.com
or call in the office and give our Clerk, Gill Barker, your views.
Mike Gee
Minutes of Linton Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 6th
November.
THERE were ten Councillors and three members of the public present.
In public participation Mr Atkinson (CBO for Fulbourn) wished to seek support
from Council regarding rail renewal, particularly between Haverhill and
Cambridge. He reported on two action groups currently working toward the same
goal, one for the Haverhill to Cambridge extension, and one for the St Ives to
Cambridge line. He advised that a market research campaign is already underway
with over £15,000 raised toward the cost. It is being organised by an
independent company from Norwich and will last 12 weeks. Both groups are trying
to change the policy of CCC with regard to the guided bus project which is very
expensive. Mr Atkinson feels that the renewal of the railway would be a cheaper
option. With regard to usage, Mr Atkinson specifically feels that attendees of
Cambridge Regional College, which number over 16,000, could benefit. He also
reported that Haverhill was the second largest town without a rail link. The
Chairman thanked Mr Atkinson for his comments and sought any questions from
Councillors. These included whether there was much ‘track’ land to buy back;
whether the guided bus system was any more expensive; whether there would be
planning implications. The Chairman then proposed that this item be placed on
the Agenda for a future meeting to be discussed further. This was agreed by the
meeting.
The Planning Committee minutes were considered with no queries.
Within reports from Co-ordinators:- Cllr Clay reported that the footpaths
between Rhugrave Gardens and Bartlow Road, and Bartlow Road and Granta Vale had
both been extensively cleared of overhanging flora. Wheatsheaf Way had been
resurfaced in part, and is much better. Cllr Kenyon reported that on the
recreation ground there was a
Golden Jubilee tree which is broken, a large amount of broken glass, and a child
running round the play equipment with burning paper, close to the Skateboard
equipment. The Clerk advised that the Village Custodian had cleared the glass
that morning. Cllr Rossiter reported a tree down in Rivey Lane. The Clerk has
notified the land owner. Cllr Cox reported that prior to the recent rain
Leadwell Meadows had been in good condition. Dr Rossiter then reported that, in
conjunction with the Parish Plan, she had organised for a Biodiversity Officer
from SCDC to come and appraise certain village areas, including Leadwell
Meadows, with regard to ensuring that any Action Plan formulated for the village
was feasible. Cllr Rossiter also reported that there was to be a public meeting
to discuss the results of the village questionnaire on 19th November, 7.30 pm at
Linton Village College.
It was reported that due to the resignation of Mrs Read as a Parish Councillor,
the Council had been requested to appoint a new trustee for the Charles and Mary
Anderson Trust. Discussion took place and as a result the meeting agreed the
appointment of Cllr Kenyon.
Council then considered the notes of the Steering Group meeting held on 23rd
September, with a copy of the updated Action Plan. The Clerk then reported on a
further meeting held to update James Paice, MP, on the steering group’s work.
There is to be a meeting of the full Traffic group with James Paice and CCC
officials on 16th January. It was further reported that the proposal for
alteration to parking in the High Street was about to go to formal public
consultation with a notice in the Cambridge Evening News. Consultation will take
three weeks. There were no queries.
A report had been circulated regarding options of where to hold Council meetings
in the future. Discussion took place during which it was noted that to maintain
disabled access to all meetings it was necessary to remain at the Cathodeon
Centre. This was agreed by the meeting.
The payments due list was circulated. Cllr Cox proposed that the payments, as
listed, be made. This was agreed by the meeting. Cllrs Cox and Potter signed the
cheques.
From the correspondence received the following were noted particularly:- A
letter regarding a fire in the cemetery. This was to be forwarded to the local
Police. Linton Music Society had sent two complimentary tickets for a concert -
a note of thanks was to be forwarded to the Society. Zurich Insurers’ copy of a
playground inspection report with no defects requiring immediate repair. A
request from CCC/Libraries for funding toward the ‘Summer Reading Challenge
2004’. This was discussed and as a result it was agreed to fund £100 toward this
project. Cllr Gore reported that at a recent Cathodeon Centre trustees meeting
the library usage figures for Linton had been discussed and were causing
concern. Anything which encourages library usage is to be encouraged.
Under any other business Cllr Gore reported contact from a number of local
residents with regard to the alteration to the Service 113 buses. The main
concern was the lack of inter-village transport. Cllr Clay reported that the
spring bulbs had arrived. He and Cllr Gee are to organise planting.
The meeting closed at 21.15.
I MOVED to Linton 19 years ago in order that my husband could set up a new
veterinary practice for Linton and surrounding villages. Since that time I have
seen substantial development both within Linton and also Haverhill. I accept
that an increase in population does help to preserve existing amenities which
then benefits the whole community. However, I feel that this must be balanced
carefully with the down side. One major negative aspect being the concomitant
increase in traffic which brings with it congestion, noise and air pollution.
I have been a Councillor for over nine years and have always been concerned with
the negative side of traffic. The Parish Council have for many years worked very
hard on traffic issues and in fact one of our successes was the setting up of
the excellent Access 1307 group which came about as a direct result of a public
meeting we organised. Currently, the Parish Council, Access 1307 and the newly
formed Traffic Steering Group are all now working towards improving the traffic
situation throughout Linton.
I feel very strongly, however, that any traffic management alteration must
ensure the character of Linton is maintained and the exceptional conservation
area preserved for future generations to enjoy as we do today.
LINTON is a large community, but we are still trying to catch up with the
developments that have taken place in terms of matching amenities and
facilities. I do not have a particular ‘big idea’ about what should happen –
maybe that will come later – but I would like to help improve Linton as a place
to live and to ensure that good ideas for improvements get supported. I am
particularly interested in environmental issues.
I would particularly like to make sure that our views and needs as a community
are heard, and acted upon, at District Council level.
THERE were 13 Councillors present, with Dr Bear (CC), Mrs Smith (DC) and four
residents.
In public participation resident Mr Lee raised concerns regarding the issue of
light pollution at the new development in Balsham Road. Further to the recent
complaints, all exterior lights had been switched off. This was causing problems
for the residents. Granta Housing have now switched all the lights back on. Cllr
Potter reported that the original issue was the large yellow light placed on the
side of the building, and not the individual security lights for residents.
The Clerk was to contact Granta Housing to try to resolve the situation.
Mr Lane congratulated the Council on the first issue of ‘Parish Council
Matters’, a page within the Linton News, in which he had noted mention of
regular meetings with County Highways officers, under the heading of ‘Linton
Steering Group’. He queried whether he could obtain a copy of the ‘Action Plan’
that this group is working with. Cllr Urwin then gave an update on the Steering
Group’s work and reported that copies of the Action Plan are available from the
office, or could be forwarded by email. Mr Lane then specifically queried the
status of proposed improvements to Back Road/Balsham Road junction. He had noted
that costings for this were £56K. He asked for the timescale. Cllr Urwin replied
that this was one of a number of issues currently being investigated by the
Steering Group. The costings had placed this issue outside of the County’s
jointly funded minor improvement scheme ‘pot’ and it would now have to wait to
be placed on the ‘October List’, the next ‘pot’ of money available, in 2004/05.
The October List, which covered the whole County, was a list of schemes costing
between £25K and £300K. Only two or three schemes were agreed to be actioned
from this list annually, and it would depend where this scheme was on the list
as to when it would be given the go-ahead. The Chairman thanked Mr Lane for his
comments. Cllr Potter then reported that feedback to the Linton News team
regarding the new Council page within the Linton News was essential for its
survival, and he asked residents to make their views known.
Under matters arising from the minutes of the previous meeting the Chairman
queried whether DC Mrs Smith had found a Linton resident to accompany her to
SCDC Scrutiny Committee with regard to the ‘call-in’ of the feasibility study
for Linton Swimming Pool. Mrs Smith reported that whilst it was not essential,
if there was a resident who was able to attend to speak on behalf of the need
for the swimming pool study, they should contact her quickly. Mrs Smith then
reported that at the recent AGM for Linton Area Pool Project (LAPP) it had been
agreed that they would like to utilise the original grant of £1,000 from the
Parish Council to put toward any feasibility study. Discussion took place
regarding the need for a study, and as a result agreed by the meeting after a
vote.
The report from the Police showed there had been 14 crimes reported during
September. Discussion took place during which it was reported that the ‘Calls
for Service’ requests was no longer being shown. The Clerk was to request that
this figure be re-instated. Cllr Hammett queried which number should actually be
called if a resident wished to report any incident. It was noted that for
emergencies 999 should always be used, but if reporting an incident then
residents could ring C. 358966, always ensuring they receive an Incident
Reference Number.
The Chairman reported that Linton now had its own Neighbourhood Watch Cluster
Co-ordinator, Mr Booth, and encouraged others to get involved.
Dr Bear reported, further to the email from the Clerk regarding the impending
changes to Service 113 buses, that at a recent meeting with Stagecoach it was
apparent that they were being hard nosed about the changes they required. It was
not apparent whether they realised the significance of the changes with regard
to the inter-village connection. At this time, the results of the capacity study
carried out in the previous week, were not available. The Clerk reported no
direct response from CCC regarding the Parish Council’s letter of concerns. Dr
Bear then reported regarding the Police Community Service Officers. This new
post had come about due to the Government decriminalising parking offences.
County Councils could now take over this responsibility and provide their own
traffic wardens. CCC had decided to trial decriminalisation within the City
only, and the results of that would determine whether the other areas within
Cambridgeshire would follow suit. Discussion took place regarding this during
which it was noted there was no exact timetable for the trial; any funding of
Police Authority PCSO’s by government would cease in 2006; all fines collected
within the City would go toward the budget for funding traffic wardens there.
This information was to be borne in mind for a later agenda item. Dr Bear then
reported that he had been selected as a member for the Probation Service Board.
The reports from District Councillors followed. Mrs Smith reported that, with
regard to the ‘call-in’ of the decision by SCDC not to fund a feasibility study
for a Linton Swimming Pool, the Scrutiny Committee would only be deciding
whether the original decision should stand. If they decided it should not, the
issue would return to SCDC Cabinet to decide again. She queried whether there
were any results from the Parish Plan questionnaire regarding the pool which
could be used to assist. Cllr Rossiter replied that the questionnaire data had
now been collated and returned to the group, but was not yet released to the
public. However, she confirmed that the data showed great support for a swimming
pool.
Mr Batchelor reported that SCDC wheelie bins were being delivered in the
village. The first collection day was Monday 3rd November, beginning with the
black bin. Inside each bin was a ‘flyer’ detailing what should be placed in each
type of bin.
It was further reported that within the SCDC magazine, delivered to each
household, was a diary planner showing the relevant collection dates. Mrs Smith
queried whether there had been any problems reported with regard to the Wheelie
Bin Hotline. Cllr Batchelor and the Clerk reported no such problems in Linton.
Cllr Hammett queried whether the survey of the High Street collection regarding
the new bins was complete and requested that the collection of bags from those
premises still using them was carried out in early mornings to ensure the High
Street footpath was clear for school times. Both DC’s agreed to check this.
The Planning and Finance Committee minutes were considered with no queries.
The notes of the Traffic Working Party from 2nd October had been circulated.
There were two recommendations to Full Council:-
1. Letter to CCC regarding the proposal for improvements to the Back Road/Balsham
Road junction seeking urgent attention to this from whatever funding source
possible.
2. Letter to CCC/LEA regarding disabled access from Stantons Lane into LVC,
possibly through Safer Routes to School.
Discussion took place regarding these issues and as a result it was agreed that
the recommendations be approved and the letters sent.
The Chairman then reported on a planning application regarding 38 High Street
which involved land owned by the PC. She then invited Cllr Cox to give the
history of the site. Cllr Cox explained that the Council owned the Market Square
and had entered into a Deed of Easement with the then owners of properties
bordering the site in 1984 granting them certain rights. Subsequent to that, the
owners of 38 High Street had been rented two parking spaces. It was apparent
that the owners were now leasing their property to a small business, along with
the parking spaces. The problem was that the planning application showed three
parking spaces as reserved. A site visit had been made. Discussion took place
regarding this issue and as a result Cllr Gore proposed that the comments should
be that the Parish Council believe that the owners of 38 High Street do not have
rights to three parking spaces on the adjacent parking area. The dotted line on
the plan is incorrect and a correct copy, along with a copy of the original Deed
of Easement should be enclosed. This was agreed by the meeting. It was further
proposed that a copy of these comments should be forwarded to the owners of 38
High Street.
The Chairman then reported that, with regard to Paynes Meadow open space, a date
for a public meeting had now been agreed as Tuesday 25th November. It was to be
held at the Social Centre at 8pm. It was agreed the Clerk would organise
publicity.
A request to assist funding for Police Community Support Officers had been
received. The Chairman had issued a report on the meeting with Cambs Police
regarding the above. During discussion a number of Councillors voiced their
concerns with regard to cost, time spent within the village in relation to the
cost, control, situation if Parish could not fund in the future, lack of
information with regard to present situation in relation to that proposed and
where funding presently in place for traffic wardens was being redirected if not
to PCSO’s. Further to the discussion it was summed up by one Councillor as
‘damned if we fund, and damned if we don’t’. As a result of discussion, Cllr
Cornell proposed that an article be written for the Parish page of the Linton
News giving as much information as possible to residents, with both pros and
cons, and seeking views about the proposal to raise the precept to fund PCSO’s.
This was seconded by Cllr Gee, who volunteered to write the article.
The payments due list was circulated and agreed by the meeting. Cllrs Potter and
Cox signed the cheques.
Of the correspondence received the following was particularly noted: the Audit
for the previous year was complete; a request from a resident of the Heights for
a salt box; an invitation from LVC to attend an award ceremony - the Council
offered its congratulations to LVC on its own award.
Under any other business, Cllr Alper queried when the issue regarding where
Council meetings are held would return to the Agenda. The Clerk reported
investigations were still continuing into what options there were and once these
were complete the issue would come forward again.
Mr Gore, having been away at the last meeting, reported his concern in the
proposed changes with the local Service 113 buses.
Cllr Cornell wished it noted that Mrs Newman, the part time office assistant had
coped very well the previous week during the Clerk’s holiday. This was agreed by
the meeting and would be passed on to Mrs Newman.
The Chairman then reported on the recent spate of arson attacks on street
furniture. The total cost to the local taxpayers of replacement was up to
£2,200. Discussion took place and as a result Cllr Potter proposed that no
replacement of the dog bins take place at this stage. Cllr Gore further proposed
that the whole issue should wait until Precept. This was seconded by Cllr Gee
and agreed by the meeting.
Cllr Potter reminded all Councillors that the Precept meeting had been set for
10th December and that any ‘bids’ for projects for the next financial year had
to be with himself and the Clerk by 1st December.
The meeting closed at 22.22.