PLANS FOR A POOL IN LINTON PROVE PROBLEMATICAL - AGAIN
Our community has long expressed a wish for a pool in this area and for over
30 years there has been an ongoing campaign for a pool to be built in Linton.
In 2000, Linton Area Pool Project (LAPP) was founded by Ron Amsden and was given
charity status.
For many years it has been proposed that the pool should be built in the grounds
of the Village College and this proposal has always been fully supported by LVC.
In 2003 it was announced that a special needs school is to be built on the LVC
site. It is to include a small heated pool.
This news, and the results of the Parish Plan, have given fresh impetus to the
community’s hopes for a pool that can be used by all. But are these hopes to be
dashed yet again?
It is probably well known by now that South Cambridgeshire District Council
declined to give matching funding to the County’s £5,000 towards a full
feasibility study and business plan for a project to try to build a community
swimming pool in Linton as part of the development of a Special Needs School on
the Village College site.
County could see the potential of a pool from both an educational and community
point of view. Even the willingness of the Parish Council to allow their £1,000
donation to Linton Area Pool Project to be used towards the survey, which would
mean that the SCDC would only need to find £4,000, was not sufficient to
persuade them.
The matter was hard fought, through both cabinet and via call-in, through the
Scrutiny Committee. If you would like to read the precise reasoning behind the
decision it is available by logging on to www.scambs.gov.uk and accessing the
minutes of Scrutiny Committee for 23rd October or the earlier cabinet minutes.
LAPP members were very discouraged by the decision of SCDC but felt they must
fight on, as the results of the Parish Plan show that a pool is truly desired by
the community. Indeed, the results demonstrate that a local swimming pool has
the top importance rating of 7.7 out of 10. Amongst sporting facilities that are
wanted or which the community thought could be improved, it rated 80%.
County are still willing to provide their share if we can find another source of
funding. The advantages of a pool being integrated with the planning and design
of the school could lead to savings and improve feasibility. However, the study
needs to be done far more quickly than we could raise the money because it is
planned to open the new school in 2006.
Those of us at LAPP have therefore made an application to "Awards for All" and
we hope the outcome will not be prejudged - as we felt had happened at SCDC.
In view of the Parish Survey results and in case this application fails, we have
also requested that the Parish Council should consider a further contingency, or
set aside sum, of £4000 in next year’s precept.
Until we can get the study done, LAPP members feel unable to proceed with local
fund-raising because the project will also require appeals to major funders. In
turn, these major funders will not consider a bid unless the project is
under-pinned by a full and independent feasibility study and business plan.
A positive outcome to any feasibility study will, of course, also give our
community a sound basis to sustain what would have to be the main focus of local
fundraising for the next few years to get the pool built.
However, when at last the feasibility study can be undertaken, whatever the
findings may be, at least we shall have a definitive answer to what has been a
long-held desire of this community.
Joan Smith
EVERY TUBBY TABBY HAS HER DAY
"I’m ever so cute. You don’t really want to put me on a diet, do you?"
The tubbiest tabby in the world! Well, at least in Linton anyway. (photos: Val
Urwin)
IN an attempt to find a good home for an overweight tabby cat, Dr Valerie Urwin
of Linton veterinary surgery organised a ‘Guess the weight of the cat’
competition at the St Mary’s Church bazaar, on Saturday 29th November.
When showing Bumble, the over-weight moggy’s, picture to prospective
competitors, 10-year-old Catherine Richardson asked if they would like a new,
friendly but dieting pet.
Not one of more than 50 entrants could offer the cat a home or guess the correct
weight of 13lb.10oz (6.2Kg). Mrs Diane Simmons from Linton Zoo won the prize for
guessing 13lbs (5.9Kg). She said, "I remembered the size and weight of our
smallest lion cub and thought perhaps an overweight cat could be about the
same."
Mrs Simmons has plenty of cats already but let’s hope that by now Bumble has
found a new home.
Kate France
FULL DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTIONS THIS JUNE
AT the AGM of the Linton and District Branch of the Liberal Democrats, the
main focus of the meeting was on the South Cambridgeshire District Council
elections in June.
These elections, which will be held on the same day as the European elections,
are particularly important because for the first time in many years, all the
council seats come up for re-election, instead of just the usual one-third.
The branch Chairman, Andrew Gore, reminded members that with the successful
re-election of Sam Agnew as the councillor for the Bartlow, Horseheath and Camps
seat, the Liberal Democrats hold four of the five district council seats in the
branch’s area, and that the aim for next June was to make it a clean sweep with
five out of five.
The chairman was re-elected, with County Councillor Terry Bear elected as
secretary and Jill Phillips as treasurer.
For details about branch activities, contact. Terry Bear
FROM WHERE I’M SITTING by Tony Smith
WE are delighted to welcome Tony Smith as a new, regular columnist to the
Linton News. His first article introduces us to the season of Glumner! LNT
WITH Christmas over, excess and merriment quickly gives way to a new season I
have invented; ‘Glumner’. It represents the months of January to late March, a
time where there seems to be little to get excited about. I notice Easter eggs
are already in the shops; hot cross buns have been plentiful all year.. Is it
only me that has trouble seeing Christmas as a special time? Chicken, turkey,
nuts and all that was so special when I was a child seem now to be a year round
normality. Examples of how time has changed, people have changed, lives are
different. In the past, communities have thrown a protective ring around their
towns and villages, coming together to resist, argue, fight against change but
now, it seems, it is everyone for themselves. The older times have passed and
peoples’ lives encompass the modern age we now find ourselves in. The demands of
modern thinking, changes in the way we live, travel, work and shop, mean that
the very people who may be against change are contributing to the necessity of
it. If we do not build new houses, where will our children live? Yet, if we
build new houses, we stand to lose our beautiful countryside. The arguments for
change are the responsibility of us all, whatever our ages, where we live, how
we live. The Parish Plan has been an attempt to bring some of our views
together, and we must never let the decisions of the future fall to people who
know little about us, or our village.
I dream a lot these days. Apart from a recent flight of fantasy about eating a
giant marshmallow and waking to find my pillow had gone I had one dream that
gave me a sight of a very different Linton. The Infants’ School was part of a
new housing estate on Balsham Road. The fire station was on the corner of
Bartlow Road, along with a satellite ambulance station. The Co-op had moved to
the old fire station site. Pocket Park was a flood plain, incorporating a
fishing lake, with a visitor’s centre, car park and picnic area. In addition to
all of this, disabled and elderly people could actually visit the Parish Clerk
in her office! The High Street was closed to all traffic except bicycles and
wheelchairs. This, of course, was only a dream, but a dream born of many
people’s comments to me over the past year. Was this a dream or desire? We’ll
see.
In an exclusive to the Linton News I am happy to bring you my weather
predictions for the coming month.
The first couple of weeks in the New Year will bring rain, followed by sunny
spells and showers. There could be a period of particularly heavy rain and very
strong winds on 2nd or 3rd January. During the last week of January it will be
mild, but quite windy. If, like many of us, you would like some snow, you will
have to wait until the middle of February, but more of that next month! Any
variations to my very accurate forecast mean that there has been a sudden change
in the wind pattern in the Azores. Either that or my seaweed has fallen down. A
happy New Year to you all!
’TWAS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY
Left to right: Peter Thomas, Kathleen Mitchell, Gloria Fidler and Anne
Parry-Smith. (Photo: Ron Pitkin)
IF you heard any revellers in Linton on the evening of 9th December it could
have been the homegoing Gardening Club members. Cynthia’s mulled wine magically
appeared even though she was unable to attend and members enjoyed a glass or two
with mince pies whilst socialising during the break.
We were entertained by slides from home and abroad of spectacular scenery and
striking gardens accompanied by the travellers’ sometimes humorous commentary. A
fondness for bovine creatures was reflected in one set of pictures, while a
garden in Scotland boasted a strange looking sundial dating from the time of
Charles I which purported to tell the time in all known countries of the world.
Thanks to John Keeble we were also able to see a selection of scenes from
Thailand on a computer screen with which some may be familiar from his
presentations at fund-raising events. An excellent quiz produced by Ron Pitkin
had us all guessing, and was won jointly by Kathy Hopkins and Brenda Smith.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to a fun evening.
For all keen photographers, the categories for the July show will be: a flower
or flowers on a single stem; gardens of historic houses; a local village event;
a tree or trees; water. The children’s subject will be: my favourite photograph
taken by me.
The meeting this month will feature a talk on the care of houseplants by Lamorna
Thomas. A happy New Year to all.
Gloria Fidler
AN EARLY CHRISTMAS DINNER
CHRISTMAS came a little early for the Linton WI but we soon entered into the
festive spirit. Members arrived to a hall with tables bright with Christmas
arrangements and crackers.
Forty-one members sat down to a festive meal of turkey or beef with all the
trimmings and with our party hats and a glass of wine the evening began to feel
merry and bright.
Feeling well satisfied after our meal, we were entertained by our two drama
queens Tricia Lewis and our President Margaret Clark. Tricia did a reading on
Church Flower Arranging by Alan Bennett, enacting the inebriated part extremely
well and Margaret one on Earl Grey and Nancy, both very entertaining. This was
followed by music, both modern and classical, played on flutes by 16-year-old
Sally and 10-year-old Victoria, both very talented granddaughters of Tricia. A
few carols completed the repertoire.
The evening came to an end with Christmas presents, brought along by each member
being distributed.
The next meeting will be held at the Linton Social Centre, Coles Lane at 7.30pm,
on Tuesday 6th January 2004 with a talk on the ‘Christian Blind Mission’ by the
National Organiser, Dr Bill Macalister. Guests and new members welcome. Cynthia
Norris
POSTCARDS FROM THE PAST
THE ladies of the Hildersham WI met on Monday 17th November and welcomed
their speaker for the evening, Mr E Jacobs. Indeed, it was a very interesting
talk about Cambridgeshire villages.
Mr Jacobs has an extensive collection of postcards dating back many years and we
were able to see how the villages of Linton, Hildersham, Babraham and Pampisford
looked in the olden days. It was nice to see the slides of local baker, butcher,
barber and hardware shops etc. that have now unfortunately disappeared. It was
generally felt that in some way life looked so tranquil and uncomplicated.
Mrs Lynn Hartland gave the vote of thanks and we retired to enjoy delicious
savouries and cake provided by Mrs Jean Morton and Mrs Janet Hill.
Gillian Anderson
TAPAS FANTASTICAS
A FINE time was had by all at the Linton NSPCC Wine Tasting and Tapas Evening
held at Linton House on 22nd November.
Philip Harris of Laymont and Shaw wine merchants spoke knowledgeably and
entertainingly as over sixty guests sampled fine wines from Spain and Latin
America.
After the tasting and a raffle, we partook of delicious savoury treats based on
Spanish ‘tapas’ and conversation flowed as freely as the wine.
Felicity Wilson of Midsummer Wines (based in Linton) was there and guests were
able to buy any of the wines that they had sampled. All proceeds went to the
work of the NSPCC in Cambridgeshire and over £1000 was raised!
Well done to everyone who worked so hard on the event and heartfelt thanks to
everyone who attended, especially Dr and Mrs Bertram who so kindly donated the
use of their lovely house.
Martha Crouch
READERS WRITE
MISSED OPPORTUNITY
Dear Editor
I delivered 200 invitations to the tenants of SCDC in this area to come to an
open day on a Saturday to air their grumbles and have a nice day (free lunch)
with free transport if needed. There were officers to answer questions on all
grumbles and also a £100 draw for all those who attended on the day. Out of 135
people who attended, two were from Linton, one of whom won the draw.
If more had attended, your problems could have been solved and you could have
made a few bob!
Andy Booth
FALSE CHARITY
Dear Editor
There is a company calling themselves Olonex Ltd who are calling on people in
this area saying they are collecting for a charity on behalf of third world
countries. They are not a charity, but are collecting for themselves (or for
their own gain – in the words of Cambridge Police). They have been, and are
still being, investigated by the Advertising Standards Authority.
Please report any contact from these people to me either by or email.
Be careful.
Andy Booth
Cluster Coordinator (Neighbourhood Watch)
IN PRAISE OF CARERS
Dear Editor
I never cease to be impressed by the number of carers who live in this village.
They keep an eye on elderly or ill people. They take them shopping, get
prescriptions, ‘pop in’ on a regular basis. Problems are shared, worries
discussed. The lonely are invited round to neighbours for coffee.
Dogs are walked, cats fed while the elderly are in hospital or on holiday, and
there are many volunteers who take relatives to visit hospital patients.
There are those who watch out each day to make sure elderly neighbours are up
and about.
Families who have problems are helped by ordinary people who just happen to
care. Children are looked after by neighbours and friends in times of trouble.
I regularly see meals which have been cooked and taken ‘across the road’ to
elderly people who can’t cook anymore.
Unwanted goods are passed on to those who can make use of them. Surplus fruit
and vegetables are given to nearby people. Flowers are taken to those who need
cheering up, and cards are sent to those who are sad because of bereavement,
illness or other problems.
There are those who mow lawns and do gardening for those less able. When it
snows, an army of volunteers appear to sweep the snow off paths of those who
have difficulty walking.
Most of these ‘acts of kindness’ are done on a regular basis week by week and
sometimes year by year, usually with no thought of payment.
Joan Swann
NKS
Dear Editor
I would like to say a big Thank You to the man who alerted my daughter and the
couple with a dog who came to my aid on 23rd November when my greyhound, Steed,
broke his leg. It was a nightmare.
Vet Oliver Garrett rescued us and took us to the surgery where Steed stayed
overnight. Next morning he was taken into Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital in
Cambridge.
As well as their expertise, he has received an enormous amount of tender loving
care from Sorrel Langley-Hobbs and her team, including Chris Green who has been
his special carer. They put a bolt down through the middle of his tibia!
The skin has been slow to grow back over the bone – it was torn badly when the
broken bone pushed through, but I hope to have him home soon. He can already
hobble along quite nicely on the grass.
Again, many thanks to my knights in shining armour.
Happy New Year to everyone.
Pat Thomas
Dear Editor
Many thanks to the 168 donors who came to give their blood on 28th November ,
most especially the first time givers.
All the ongoing changes have at last speeded things up and I hope you will all
be able to give again on 2nd April 2004.
Susan Anderson
A DELIGHTFUL VILLAGE WALK
AH Wonderful! A day off from work. What shall I do today? As it’s a Monday,
I’ll enjoy the prolonged racket of the wheelie-bin collection. Seems to take
twice as long as the good-old-black-bin days. Why has the lid on my new bin
already started to break?
It’s fairly mild for early December, so I’ll go for a walk. What local delights
might I encounter on the way?
How delightful! The kids have rearranged my wing-mirrors on their way to school.
At least the one who used to stub his cigarettes out on my wall has grown up and
left.
Along the High Street, and a quick glance reveals that the recent rain has at
last been sufficient to swell the river to carry off some litter.
There seems to be a low rumbling noise, but I can’t quite place it. Onwards,
passing a group of people doing a spot of orienteering... or are they just
attempting to catch a bus to Abington?
Something becomes clear as we approach the Co-op. No, not the stunning chewing
gum mosaic all over the pavement. The kids who need driving to school from
within the village apparently live so far away that their parents need to park
on the yellow lines in order to stock up on supplies to ensure they make it
home. I’m puzzled that not only do they have to travel vast distances to get to
school, but they live equally vast distances away from each other and cannot
possibly take another child on the way.
I spot the source of that rumbling noise now. The Co-op delivery lorry has had
to park on the pavement outside what was the Princess of Wales pub. It seems
that the illegal parking outside the shop means that it cannot turn. It looks
stuck. As does the bus. And that van. And all those people in their cars who are
unable to make a five-minute walk. So the noise is the collective music of about
twenty stationary vehicles.
Eventually, we arrive at the Balsham Road turn and... the same scene! Some poor
soul has had to park at the fire station to visit the Post Office. Must be very
important business.
The conversation in the Post Office queue is about the dog-mess bins being
attacked by an arsonist. A mindlessly stupid act, not at all like the blocking
the roads on a daily basis by inconsiderate, dangerous parking.
Walking back past the Co-op I think cheerfully of the youngsters who will be
hanging around outside later on, waiting for their older friends to emerge with
their drink. Must remember to get up early to clear up the broken bottles
outside the house.
And how sweet that ‘knock down ginger’ has made a return. Such a fun game to be
a part of.
Morning, noon and night, I do enjoy my walks.
Name and Address Supplied
TUNEFUL CHARITY UPDATE
FURTHER to my article in last month’s Linton News, Tracy at the Dog and Duck,
and Ann at the Post Office, have kindly agreed to have sponsorship forms on the
premises to collect the names of any of you generous Lintonians donating to the
very worthwhile charity, East Anglia Children’s Hospices for the
‘Grade-one-a-thon.’
My clarinet-playing for this event will begin in earnest after my one and only
lesson on 4th January so beware strange sounds in Symonds Lane!
Anne Bradley
HELP WANTED
WE are still in need of a person who can spare a couple of hours each month
to distribute the News to deliverers. If you can help please email on the left
LNT
TWO FROGS ON THE POND
THIS month we read about Linton from the perspective of
Aude & Richard Redon, newcomers to the village who have recently moved from
France.
OUR first impressions of Linton coincide with our discovery of the English way
of life. We arrived in May to work in the UK as scientists and during our search
for a place to live, we were captivated by a delightful small house with a large
garden, in Linton. And so we decided to set up our home in this charming
village.
Our first amazing surprise was that Linton is packed with footpaths. We could
head for the Co-op, the newsagent’s or the post office, by following the
pathways that seem to go through almost every part of the village. We could also
walk to the recreation ground, the peaceful church or charming ford.
This summer we took advantage of sunny Sundays to walk in the countryside around
Linton and we enjoyed great round trips through Hildersham, Hadstock, Bartlow
and Rivey Hill.
We were also surprised the first time we received a copy of the Linton News, a
few days after our arrival. It was the perfect way to get a first glimpse of the
full range of activities available in Linton. We had never received free local
papers like this one before. We were amazed by the range of sport on offer. It
is really impressive considering the size of the village (and we support the
prospect of a swimming pool 125%!)
With this first Linton News issue we discovered the Linton Parish Plan and were
baffled by the wide range of issues addressed and the details of the questions.
We are sure this survey will be very useful to better consider peoples wishes
for the future of the village and its production and publication shows Linton as
a dynamic and democratic community.
It appeared to us that one of the aspects that most worried the inhabitants of
Linton was the concern about traffic. We were surprised by the extent of this
problem, not only in Linton, but in the whole of the South of England. We lived
in Strasbourg before moving to Linton. It is a large city and very busy, but the
efficiency of the public transport allowed us to leave our car parked at home
for the whole working week. Sometimes we didn’t use our car for up to a month.
Public transport seems very different in England!
The thing we most enjoy about living in Linton, however, is the friendliness of
its inhabitants. People are ready to share enjoyment here. For example, we went
with a nearby family to the duck race organised by the Dog and Duck in July. It
was a pleasure to share the excitement of the race with a range of villagers,
aged from 7 to 77; even though we were a bit disappointed to lose our favourite
ducks during the race.
And a few weeks ago we really enjoyed the fireworks that were organised by the
village. We noticed that this event was full of families and friends; it seemed
to us that almost all of Linton was gathered together to enjoy a drink and a
chat. This warm atmosphere reminded us of fireworks events in France that are
organised to celebrate the revolution. It seemed that people were happy to relax
and share in the spectacle of the fireworks and the sumptuous bonfire. We
realise that the noise and the lights can frighten the animals at Linton Zoo but
it will be a shame if some compromise cannot be reached next year.
What has definitely won our hearts is the spontaneous friendship of people we
have met. It is almost impossible to purchase a newspaper or a pound of carrots
without being greeted by a joke, a friendly chat or at least a smile. Everybody
seems willing to help, even though our English is not perfect at the moment (but
we are struggling to improve it, we promise!).
Most of all we are grateful to have received the warmest welcome we could have
ever wished for from our neighbours who said, "If you need anything, just ask,
we are here to help." It’s been a great start to our new life.
LINTON IS A LOVELY VILLAGE, BUT THIS ONE ISN’T OURS
Janet has deja-vu
A bridge over Linton beck (photos: Janet Annett)
The lower footbridge over Linton beck (photo: Janet Annett)
The Parish church of St Michael and All Angels (photo: Janet Annett)
LAST year, while carrying out a web search on the word ‘Linton’ during a bored
moment on a Sunday afternoon, I discovered that there are at least 10 - and
probably many more - other places named Linton in the UK. As often happens to
people during these odd moments, I was seized with the idea of visiting every
other Linton in Britain, and perhaps even the world!
Luckily for my boyfriend, who didn’t really fancy using all his holiday up on
this particular venture, I was easily distracted by the much more attractive
(and definitely warmer) prospect of a holiday in Bermuda.
However, I didn’t entirely forget the whole idea and ran an article in the
Linton News asking whether anybody had actually visited other places named
Linton. Janet Annett soon replied and sent me a few details and photos of her
trip to Linton-in-Craven (known more commonly as ‘Linton’!) in North Yorkshire.
Linton-in-Craven is a much smaller village than our Linton and Janet says she
cannot remember seeing any shops. Upon further websearching I discovered the
following description on a holiday cottage website: For most supplies
Grassington is only a five minute car ride away, and the historic market town of
kipton is about nine miles away." This seems to confirm Janet’s memory that
there weren’t many shops in the village. Nevertheless, the website goes on to
say, "Linton is one of the prettiest villages in Upper Wharfedale and is a
ramblers’ and country lovers’ paradise...All roads and footpaths from Linton
lead to the beauty of the Yorkshire dales." And as we can see from Janet’s
photos, it is a very picturesque village.
Linton-in-Craven was once well known for its hospital, ‘Fountaine Hospital’
which was founded in 1721 by Richard Fountaine to provide almshouses for the
poor. Apparently Fountaine became rich by making coffins during the Great
Plague.
From a further website (www.skiptonweb.co.uk), I learnt that this Linton doesn’t
have a clapper stile, but it does have a clapper bridge which crosses the Linton
beck that flows through the centre of the village. It really is amazing what
information you can find on the Internet!
If any body else has visited Linton-in-Craven, or indeed any other Linton,
please let us know. LNT
VILLAGE FORUM PROVING POPULAR
OUT of the forty-three villages who use this site to host their forums,
Linton’s is already in the top ten most used. Inevitably there is some shyness
about speaking up but the most read topic (110 reads) was "Wheelie Bins". There
seems to be a general consensus that the wheelie bins are not an altogether bad
thing, but with reservations. This months virtual prize for humour goes to Tony
who, it would seem, is working on a plan to build bridges over bins on the High
Street for wheel and push chairs.
A fairly heated discussion got started about the Parish Council, another about
dog bins and also about plans for Paynes Meadows. There is a poll to find out
how many people have seen buses (and trucks) driving on the pavement. So don’t
forget to vote, even if you don’t want to join the discussion.
Many people are using the forum to ask questions whether it’s one needing an
immediate answer, like the opening time for the firework display, or a slow
burner about footpaths. Someone will endeavour to answer your question. Until
linton.info gets a noticeboard up and running, you could also use the forum for
jobs or as a for sale board if you wish. It’s your board, you can do with it
what you will.
Looking forward to seeing you there.
Linton.info Editor (forum moderator until someone else volunteers!)
www.linton.info/forum/forum.htm
NEW DOORS FOR ST MARY’S
NEW south porch doors have been installed at St Mary’s church to provide
wheelchair access and to retain heat in the building.
The doors were designed by Mike Francis, President of the Friends of the Church,
and have been dedicated to the memory of Adam Clackson who was an active member
of the Friends.
Much more work and refurbishment needs to be carried out and the Friends’ next
fund raising event will be a Sherry and Mince Pie morning in the Social Centre
from 11am to 12.30pm on Saturday, 3rd January.
Admission will be charged at the door. Everyone is welcome.
Mrs M Clark
INTRODUCING YOUR VERY OWN POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT OFFICER
Picture Missing will appear when available
Picky Linton’s new PCSO Judi Di Bon
MY name is Judy Di Bon and I am the Police Community Support Officer for Linton.
I have been out in the area now for about a month and have met a number of
people from various aspects of the village – from Council meetings to
Neighbourhood Watch meetings – and I am eager to meet other community groups.
My aim is to be seen around the village, and be involved in its issues. I work
alongside Pc Dave Hall, but as our shifts sometimes differ, I will be seen in
the village on my own. This will give Linton more of a police presence than we
have been able to provide in the past. I will be seen inside and outside
schools, and around when school children arrive back in the village from other
areas.
Although I am not a Beat Officer, I do have the right to exercise certain
powers. These include; confiscation of alcohol and tobacco from a young person,
removal of abandoned
vehicles, seizure of vehicles used to cause alarm, antisocial behaviour,
disorder, cycling on the footway and traffic warden powers.
These are just a few of my powers – so make sure you stop and ask me for a more
detailed description of my job.
Please talk to me when you see me around, and do not hesitate to contact me with
reference to meeting your specific group. I am aware of some of the issues
present in Linton and welcome any information that will assist us in reducing
crime.
My mobile number is 07736 085525. As with Pc Hall and CCO Carol Wilson, this is
for non-emergency use only.
May I take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas.
Judy Di Bon
NEW YEAR, NEW VENTURE?
THE new WEA term starts on Tuesday 13th January 2004. There will be a 10 week
course entitled ‘English Country Houses’ and the tutor will be Ann
Hollingsworth. We meet from 10-11.45am on Tuesdays at the Social Centre, Coles
Lane. New members very welcome.
For further information please contact Leslie Allison.
Anne Parry-Smith
WILDLIFE VERSUS HOUSING?
Picky Paynes Meadow complete with rainbow - which looks better in colour on
the Linton.info website! (photo: Tony Smith)
PEOPLE of Linton, You are losing sight of your hill! But the good news is that
if plans proceed, you will have instead some of the seventy-seven houses needed
at present for those with local connections.
A public meeting, sparsely attended, was held on the 25th November at the Social
Centre to discuss the future of the field above The Chalklands estate.
Enthusiastic residents, mainly from Chalklands and Paynes Meadow faced a panel
consisting of Mr Mike Sugden (Acting Development Officer for South Cambs
District Council), Mr John Barrett and Mr Roger Wilson from the Hundred Houses
Society and our own inimitable and brilliant Enid Bald, chairperson of the
Linton Parish Council.
There seem to be a number of options for the field including the construction of
as many as twenty-four new units. Another option is a much lower density
development to include recreational areas or perhaps allotments. In an ideal
world I would prefer an option of returning the field back to woodland and
reinstate its natural course of water in an effort to establish some semblance
of natural order.
However, if development goes ahead perhaps we should consider and take note of
what has happened to the hedgerows on lower Rivey Lane where buildings have been
erected, backing onto the popular wooded pathway. Judy Rossiter, working
tirelessly for the village plan, was unable to attend the meeting but spoke to
me afterwards, wisely forewarning of the consequences of a development so close
to Rivey Lane.
Some residents expressed how they saw the field as a fire hazard! So shall we
tarmac over every green and open space and crush beneath the JCBs the grass and
trees that give us air to breathe and wildlife to balance our environment? Some
called for more vehicle access if housing development went ahead. So shall we
wrap our peaceful village in more black ribbons of tar and bitumen? Some asked
for more housing for the disabled. Sorely needed I agree, but would it be easy
to negotiate up and down the steep hill in wheelchairs?
Few direct objections were raised for a development of some kind, yet when one
day we have covered in concrete one of Linton’s, and indeed Cambridgeshire’s,
treasured landmarks will we look down from our creation and say "It is good?"
Nevertheless, the fact remains, we are short of housing for our people and Mr
John Barrett indicated his desire to protect the remaining wildlife and
hedgerows running alongside the proposed development, which forms part of the
ancient pathway to the water tower. It is a route that commands our deepest
respect, not only for the living, but also in memory of loved ones whose ashes
are scattered there.
The field itself? Well the artesian spring-land dwellers such as crested newts,
slow-worms, rabbits, hares and deer, have been packing their bags since the
bulldozers moved in to build Paynes Meadow. It is a stony, and sometimes boggy,
piece of land that has tested the farmer’s skill and patience.
Last year I walked through the tinder dry field, then speckled with yellow
evening primrose, recalling my own treasured memories. Accompanied by flocks of
butterflies in the golden sunlight, the only fire hazard I came across was
driven by human failings and thoughtlessness. The exceedingly hot summer and the
diversion of the springs caused the dryness of the grass and thistles.
To conclude, I ask you to help our Parish Councillors’ make the most informed
decision possible. Make sure they hear your thoughts by writing to The Linton
News now with your view on the future of the field, whilst we still have one!
Darryl Nantais
BUSH TELEGRAPH
Now that Christmas is over and the long spring term has begun, it is worth
looking back at the whirlwind of activity that ended last term. Funding was, and
still is, the big issue as far as schools are concerned and as I continue my
year as Chairman of Cambridgeshire Secondary Headteachers, the details of the
local government settlement received in December are still being worked out.
You may remember my writing on many occasions about the unfair position of
Cambridgeshire compared to other counties like Essex which was brought about by
a thing called the Area Cost Adjustment. The ACA channelled additional funds to
local authorities deemed to have a higher than average cost of living, as
measured principally by house prices. Cambridgeshire did not get it whereas
Hertfordshire and Essex did. This was essentially why the LVC budget would have
been £200,000 bigger if we had been located over the next field in Essex! I am
delighted to say that the Government has at last taken notice and included us in
the re-vamped ACA giving Cambridgeshire the second largest funding increase in
the country.
As usual there is a down side and in Cambridgeshire’s case it is a combination
of the damage caused by the last 11 years of underfunding and the fact that the
increase is being phased in. It’s not exactly ‘jam tomorrow’ but it feels a bit
that way. Add the massive overspend of Cambridgeshire Social Services (currently
heading for £3m) and you can see that getting all the gains through to schools
is far from guaranteed. Indeed, we may well be in the difficult situation where
we see a large jump in local authority funding and a need to increase the
council tax by a substantial amount. Before you begin to fume at such a notion,
remember the backlog created by those years of underfunding and the fact that
the present government has insisted on more initiatives and developments being
taken up than any before it - and they all cost money.
Good news on the money front from last term was the agreement reached between
the College, County and District councils to fund the major re-development of
the community sports facilities. This £900,000 project will lead to tremendous
improvements at LVC, including a new floodlit astro-turf pitch, fully
re-furbished changing rooms and a much larger fitness suite with its own
entrance and changing areas. The planning permission has been obtained and work
should commence in the summer.
Also, last term many of you may have heard of the County’s plans to close four
of its special schools and build two new ones on existing sites. Ours was one
such site being considered, albeit at the last moment. Given the end of term and
the speed of the process it was not possible to conduct the kind of public
meetings we would normally have expected and, even as I write the anticipated
decision has not been made. Suffice to say at this stage that staff and
Governors at the College saw considerable educational and financial advantages
to the proposals which is why we put forward a strong supporting case. Time will
tell on that one. Meanwhile, I hope you all had a very pleasant Christmas and
that the New Year brings us all peace and happiness. Clive Bush, Principal
BRIDGING THE GAP
ARE you suffering from the post-Christmas reality gap: knowing that there’s a
difference between the size of your waist and the size of your trousers, but
trying to find a convenient explanation for it?
In fact, you are probably just plain unfit, and it’s often in the aftermath of
Christmas that people come to realise this sad reality. Now is the time to do
something about it, and the Linton Men’s Keep Fit Club is where you can do it.
This really is not a club for people desperate for intense competition, it is
just a group of friends, aged from in their twenties to their sixties, who get
together every Monday evening at 8pm in the Village College sports centre.
Half an hour in the fitness room is followed by half an hour of circuits in the
main hall, then half an hour of basketball.
That’s followed by more than half an hour in the bar- after all, doesn’t
everybody need a reward after all that hard work?
If you’re interested, just turn up any Monday evening at 8pm, . We look forward
to seeing you there.
Ken Leake
LINTON COUNTRY DIARY by Darryl Nantais
Illustrated by Maureen Williams
When I think of large families I can’t help but think of tits, and none more
so than our beloved blue-tit. For this tit produces a clutch of generally six to
ten and often twice a year.
Of all the wonderous tits my personal favourite has to be the blue tit Parus
caeruleus. Their striking plumage of blue and yellow make them easily
identifiable from the much less colourful coal-tit, which has a bright white
nuchal (nape of neck) patch. Watch in envy the acrobatics as it feeds with a
seemingly endless supply of nervous energy. The entertaining visitors swing on a
feeder in front of my kitchen window, bobbing and twitching with aggressive-like
intent as if not a second is to be lost. And, that’s not surprising with such a
large family to support, without baby-bonds or college grants. No wonder they
have bestowed upon them a crown of bright blue (though this is often much paler
amongst the young) for they are indeed the very epitome of dedicated parents.
Our fascinating blue tits may be seen doling out meals and attention in an
unselfish and equal manner; the task of raising the family lovingly shared by
both male and female.
Although they are frequent visitors to our bird tables, how satisfying to see
large numbers of these partial migrants in a more natural habitat such as the
hedgerows of Rivey Lane. Next time you walk this way by early morning or
twilight, listen out for the metallic, shrill tit-call. Walking quietly with
eyes wide, be careful not to snap a twig beneath your boot or the tit will be
gone. What finer seasonal image can there be than branches dusted with fine snow
or glistening in frost and adorned by the blue tit?
This time of year the tits preferred diet of oily seeds become increasingly in
short supply, and soon, before spring appears, the competition increases for our
tasty gifts. However, whilst blackbird, robin, thrush and sparrow squabble and
squawk, the starling appears at times to tolerate our little crowned friend.
They will milk our generosity for all it’s worth, and may even tap at your
window for more. Perhaps those clever clans of greedy little starlings know who
butters their bread?
Many years ago I crowned myself warden of the river. Although this was an
unofficial position to fill bin-bags of riverside rubbish I am pleased to inform
you that Val Irwin and myself now hold half the crown each as joint wardens,
with the backing of the parish council soon to come. For me the riverbeds are
like our veins, and the water that flows over them is like our blood. Slipping
into my waders and into the Granta every so often, like something from
‘Fantastic Journey’, my mission is to extract the bottles, bikes, shopping
baskets, cans and plastic bags. Many youngsters today, being far more aware of
environmental issues than most, know that a bottle or can cast into the river
will come back to haunt them through their own children if not before!
If you have any issues regarding the river please call me. I am no longer
available at the gallery as I now work independently from my home studio at
No.10 Chalklands. Until next time, enjoy those swinging blue-tits and the
silhouette of deer on yonder chalky hill!
REALLY WHEELIE THE TALK OF LINTON
IT does not matter where you are in the village; everyone is talking about
the new wheelie bins. There are a variety of opinions about them and I have come
across the odd person that thinks the system is working well. These people must
have a different lifestyle to my family. Maybe the kids have all left home, they
often eat out, their dog eats all the leftovers and they have a waste disposal
unit (or ‘garbage gobbler’ as we call it). In this case I can understand that
the black bin may be nearly full after two weeks and how it may be possible to
get on fine with the new "improved" system.
Well let’s take my family as another example. There are five of us and the dog
can’t have leftovers as they don’t agree with him. I have put in a garbage
gobbler but we are steadily running out of cutlery as the kids keep dropping
knives and forks into its jaws.
As you can imagine, after just one week our bin is full. I have tried jumping up
and down in the bin to compress everything but of course that doesn’t work. It
just makes me depressed instead. Now, every time I go to Haverhill or Saffron
Walden I take a couple of bin bags out of the wheelie bin and take them to the
recycling centre. Though after a few weeks there proved to be a problem with
this too.
One time I went to Saffron Walden and the tip was closed. On this occasion I had
four bags in the car. I returned home and left the bags in the car overnight
with the aim of going back in the morning. Morning arrived and as I opened the
car I was nearly knocked backwards by the smell. I drove to the tip with the
windows open and my teeth chattering. This time the tip was open and I got rid
of the bags and drove home thinking that would be the end of it – at least for a
few days. Unfortunately it wasn’t. Something had leaked out of the bags into the
carpet in the car and I cannot get rid of it. Even half a bottle of aftershave
has not managed to mask the smell.
Some good has come out of this. I will now have to get my car valeted so at
least it will get a well deserved clean. But what might happen the next time I
need to take the bags to the tip?
In another desperate attempt to dispose of extra rubbish I have looked inside my
neighbours’ black bins on collection day just to see if they maybe have room for
an extra bag. Unfortunately they never do. Their bins are full too.
I have asked the council if we could have another bin. They said it would be
£25. I said, "Fine, hand it over." Then they said that I first have to wait a
few months to see how we get on with just the one bin before I can call them
again to get the extra bin. Well I can’t imagine what is going to happen in the
next few months. Are we all going to have to have regular bonfires in the garden
to get rid of the extra waste or are the council going to wake up and smell the
garbage and go back to collecting the black bins once a week? And talking of
smell, Linton will be one smelly place in the summer once the sun has been
shining on the little black monsters for a whole fortnight. The village is going
to smell like my car.
Still, the bins do have some advantages. The cats and foxes can’t scatter food
about and hedgehogs may now be safer, if a little hungrier. John Supcik
PARISH COUNCIL MATTERS
View from the Chair
Enid Bald
CHRISTMAS is a time for festivity, but also a time to remember the past and
to recall loved ones. I had the honour of laying the poppy wreath for LPC at the
War Memorial and it was gratifying to see so many, especially the younger
people, honouring the war dead.
However, the Cemetery looked very sad in the dismal weather, with some graves
untended and the trees so bereft. LPC has plans for this area; a map of the
burial areas, more planting of suitable trees and bushes, etc. One problem has
irritated many families for years – the fluid dripping from the trees staining
the gravestones beneath them, caused by the aphids which infest this type of
Lime. Take advantage of their leafless state to note just how big and
overpowering they have become. How would you feel if they were reduced in number
(say, every other one removed), their heights reduced and crowns thinned? This
would improve airflow, reducing the number of aphids and the amount of honeydew
dripping onto the graves. Other trees, mainly conifers, have become senescent
and could be replaced by more thoughtful planting. What do you feel could be
done to improve this area? Remember that it is place for respect, peace and
contemplation, not a play area. Your thoughts are welcome.
The open meeting to discuss the future of the land next to Paynes Meadow was
well attended by those braving the foul weather. Representatives from SCDC,
Hundred Housing and LPC were there to listen to the residents and address their
concerns. It was clear that more housing had been expected, but the number,
type, tenure and provision of facilities were important. That housing should be
for those with Linton connections was crucial, as were the environmental issues.
Residents were not keen on this being a recreation area, with the problems that
this might bring. These views will be discussed at a future LPC meeting and,
should there be any plans for building in this area, we will again have a chance
to influence the development. If you could not get to the meeting – it really
was a bad night! - write to let us know how you think this area could best be
used, by 12th January.
A happy and fulfilling. New Year to you all.
PAYNES MEADOW - THE FUTURE - LAST CHANCE TO HAVE YOUR SAY!
Paynes Pasture
FOLLOWING on from the Public meeting held on Tuesday 25th, the Parish Council
must now decide whether to allow any further development at Paynes Meadow. On a
terrible night, weather wise, around 25 residents managed to attend the public
meeting to make their views known. Below is the notes of that meeting. The
Council still have time to listen to your views if you could not attend. Please
read about the options available to us and the comments already made and let us
know what you think.
Notes of the meeting:- Mrs Bald welcomed residents to the meeting. She explained
that the meeting was being held to discuss possibilities for the Paynes Meadow
open space and that no decision would be made on the night. She then introduced
Mike Sugden, Housing Development Manager of SCDC to give an overview of the
situation. Mr Sugden explained he was responsible for ascertaining housing need,
using tools such as surveys, in each village within the District. Linton had
just recently had an updated survey carried out and he had the figures with him,
although at 23 pages long he had not actually read all of them. He picked out
some relevant facts. There were currently 77 people registered for ‘affordable
housing’ within the village. He further explained that on sites such as that
owned by Hundred Houses, preference was always given to people who had strong
Linton connections. Sites like Paynes Meadow could only be developed with the
Parish Council’s agreement and that they, alongside SCDC, would determine the
necessity, size and mix of any development.
Dr Urwin queried the age groups within the 77 registered for affordable housing.
Mr Sugden stated that the bigger proportion would be young people and they would
be requiring more one and two bed properties.
Mr Nantais queried whether any development would be for sale or for rent. Mr
Sugden stated that most schemes these days were mixed, with some rentable and
some on an ‘equity share’ basis. This was further explained as being a 50:50
ownership basis to begin with which could be added to in steps as the part owner
felt able to progress. He further noted that any development on an exception
site such as this one would have to be for either affordable rented
accommodation or affordable equity share or a mixture of both, but could not be
purely all for sale. A Section 106 agreement would be entered into by the
Housing Association, Hundred Houses in this case, which would ensure that the
properties were always under covenant to remain within the hands of those with
local connections. Dr Urwin queried whether any further development on this site
could be the same as the present dwellings, i.e. excluding the ‘right to buy’.
Mr Wilson of Hundred Houses noted that this would still be feasible, although he
pointed out that the Government did prefer some ‘equity share’ properties in all
schemes.
Mr Fletcher queried how, within a ‘shared ownership’ scheme, properties could be
made to stay only with people with Linton connections. It was explained in some
detail how the legalities work with regard the deeds of the property.
Mr Barrett, in response to a question, reported that Hundred Houses did have
some equity share properties already, one or two of which had increased their
private ownership share above 50% in stages. Mrs Williams queried whether, if an
equity share property holder owned the full 100%, and wished to sell, could they
just sell on the open market. Mr Barrett explained that it would be noted in the
deeds that they must first offer the property back to the Housing Association,
who should then buy it back, but if not the owner would then still have to sell
it on only to someone with strong local connections.
Mr Barrett then outlined the possibilities for the future. He reported that
there were currently 19 units on the Paynes Meadow site. HH had originally
approached SCDC for 40 units, phase 1, and in keeping with the requirements of
the Parish Council had built only 19, with the remainder of the land to be used
as public open space on short-term lease.
Once the original phase was occupied, HH residents approached HH stating they
were not happy with the idea of a public open space. HH had therefore approached
the Parish Council with a lease, asking them to guarantee that the public open
space would not be used after twilight hours. This had been difficult for them
to guarantee, due to the nature of the accesses to the ground and, therefore, no
lease had been able to be agreed. Over the time involved housing need in the
village had worsened, so HH had approached SCDC to ‘test the water’ and see if
perhaps the Parish Council and villagers were ready to consider phase 2, or
indeed, what they did want to happen to the site in the future. He reported that
HH were willing to consider all options – recreational space, development, a
mixture of both, or even allotment land if that was required.
Mrs Simpkin stated that the one access road was a concern. A play area was
needed in the village, albeit a small play area, and should definitely be
provided although she agreed that some further housing was inevitable.
Mr Smith queried whether all of the field was owned by HH. Mr Barrett reported
that the field as far north as the northern edge of the present development was
owned by HH, the ‘top third’ still being retained by the farmer. Mr Smith then
reported that for two years now the ‘open space’ half of the field has been a
hazard with people using it, for all sorts of reasons, who should not be. Any
development would take time – what would happen to make the site more secure in
the mean time?
Mr Fletcher reported that there had already been arson attacks in the woods on
the northern edge of the whole field, with children being the culprits. He
suggested a small green area within a small development on the other half of the
field so that parents could watch their children playing. Mrs Simpkin stated she
would have objection to a play area in the centre of any further development. Mr
Smith re-iterated the fact that the area was in a terrible state at the moment,
with no lighting whatsoever, and small children could easily hurt themselves. Mr
Ogilsby queried whether the land could be used for allotments. There was general
discussion about this but it was agreed that the land was probably not suitable.
Mr Nantais reported his concern over the loss of wildlife habitat, and that more
development going further up the hill was destroying an area of outstanding
natural beauty. Mrs Williams asked how many houses HH were looking to build. Mr
Barrett reported they had come to the meeting with no preconceived ideas at all.
Mr Sugden suggested that the land available would lend itself to perhaps 12-13
dwellings. He further explained that all agencies would have to comment on any
future proposals and it was possible, for instance, that Highways would require
measures such as traffic calming for a particular number of properties. Mrs
Simpkin queried whether HH would wish to open the entrance in the second spur of
Chalklands. Mr Barrett stated that had never been an intention. Discussion took
place during which it was noted that there was a problem with car parking on
this section of Chalklands but it may be worth investigating. Mr Ogilsby queried
whether the Papworth Trust would wish to build any further dwellings. Mr Barrett
confirmed that they had expressed an interest in building at least one more unit
on any further development. Mrs Barker queried the planning and build time
scales of any development. Mr Barrett reported that the planning/lead time would
be approximately 1 year and the build time the same. Mrs Barker then queried
whether the site could be fenced off now until then, to ensure there was less
trespassing and, therefore, less hazard to residents. Mr Barrett agreed to
investigate this. Mr Fletcher then reported, as a current HH resident, that the
current site was an asset to the village. He could personally recommend an
extension to the site with regard affordable housing associations. Mr Smith then
queried whether the current metal ‘bar gate’ outside his premises could be
removed. Mr Barrett would investigate potential alternatives. Dr Urwin queried
whether HH would consider building flats. Mr Barrett reported that they were
‘governed’ by the Housing Needs Survey, but that they had provided 4 ‘flats’ on
Phase 1. Mr Sugden reported that SCDC would want to see a ‘mixed scheme’ as they
work better.
The Chairman then drew all the comments together and reported that it was clear
from the meeting that the site could not be left as it was. It was also apparent
that there was no hostility to some further development. She reported that the
consultation would continue through an article in the Parish Matters page of the
Linton News and then the issue would come before a Parish Council meeting for
decision shortly in the new year. There were environmental issues which would
need to be borne in mind. Housing needs and mix of any properties could be
assisted by the results of the Parish Plan, and a small play area should be
included.
Mr Barrett then reported that HH would welcome further input from residents and
requested that members present keep in touch to ensure their issues were being
considered.
The Chairman thanked everyone for attending. The meeting closed at 21.10.
Andrew Gore
Andrew Gore
Chair of Trustees Cathodeon Centre
WE moved to Linton in 1979. Once our children were at school, Lesley and I both
felt that in different ways we should be putting something back into the
community. One way for me was by joining the Parish Council in 1980. Since then
I have held various positions, including chairman. At the moment I am chairman
of the Cathodeon Centre Trustees, and public transport rep.
As a barrister I often advise councils about legal problems, as well as
residents who are dissatisfied with their council and I am also writing a book
on planning law for councillors, so I see council work from various angles.
Active communities don’t just happen. They have to be worked at. If you’re not
doing something for the community, get stuck in now!"
Esther Cornell
I WAS born in the village 33 years ago and I have lived here ever since. I am
a Production Engineer and I have two children of five and seven.
I was elected to the Parish Council in July this year. I currently sit on the
Traffic Working Party as well as a member of the Access 1307 group and the
Traffic Steering group and have just been involved with the three Linton
school’s successful application to the Safer Routes to School programme.
Although I do take a keen interest with regard to the traffic situation, my
interests do not end there and I love the village (generations of my family have
lived here) and think that it is a great community to live in. I am concerned
that we will not have enough affordable housing for the young to live in and
that we make efforts to maintain or increase the number of village
shops/services. I am a great believer in consultation with the village and have
been on the steering group for the Parish Plan project which is hopefully just
the first stage of getting the village involved in the many decisions that the
Parish Council has to make.
Council minutescouncilminutescouncilminutescouncil
MINUTES of the meeting held on Thursday 20th November 2003. There were 12
Councillors, four residents, two Police Officers, District Councillors and the
press present. Dr Bear (CC) had forwarded his apologies along with three Parish
Councillors.
In public participation Mr King, Chairman of the Linton Firework Committee, had
come to the meeting in response to a letter from Linton Zoo about the recent
display, which the Council had received a copy of. He reported that all
fireworks used at the display have to conform to regulations regarding noise
levels. Discussion took place and it was noted that there were numerous private
displays on the same evening. Councillors noted that it was difficult to
distinguish where the noisiest displays were. Mr King reported that he had a
certificate from the makers of the fireworks used noting that they all complied
with the noise levels allowed.
Dr Urwin requested that the Council be given a copy of this in order to respond
to those residents who had raised concerns. It was further noted that with an
organised display everyone was aware of the time it was to be held and exactly
how long it would last. With the private displays this was not the case. It was
agreed that the local organised display was very well run and Mr King was asked
to thank his Committee for their efforts.
Mr Creedy reported to Councillors that, further to the arson attacks on the dog
bins, the skateboard ramp had obvious signs of an arson attack as well.
Repairs would be required. This had been reported to the Police but Mr Creedy
was concerned that not enough was being done to identify the culprit. He also
feels that this was evidence that the situation was escalating and that someone
would eventually get hurt or worse.
Discussion took place regarding the damage to the skateboard ramp and also the
actions of the Police. As CBO Hall was in attendance, the Chairman requested his
input. CBO Hall reported that extensive investigations were taking place. It was
noted that an item, which had been found at the scene of a dog bin fire, had not
produced any forensic evidence and had been destroyed. The meeting was unhappy
with this situation. There was also an approximate time at which these attacks
were occurring. CBO Hall reported that the ‘modus operandi’ was being
investigated but to date questions asked had received no useful information.
Cllr Potter queried why the skateboard ramp light was still on in the early
hours of the morning. Mr Creedy replied this would be checked and corrected. The
light should go out around 9pm.
The Chairman thanked the members of the public for their input.
The minutes if the meeting on 6th were approved and Cllr Clay reported that,
with regard the bulb planting, this had taken place at the junction of A1307 and
the Clock House. The contractors were to be advised to ensure this area was not
mown too early.
As he was present, CBO Hall was invited to give the Police report. CBO Hall then
introduced PCSO Judy Di Bon who was to be based at Linton Police Station and
gave an overview of the PCSO’s duties. He reported that they had both spent
numerous hours recently walking the beat in Linton, being more visible. The
PCSO’s main task would be to tackle anti-social behaviour, parking offences,
under-age drinking, litter etc. Councillors queried if there were regular times
when the Station would be manned. CBO Hall explained this would not be possible
at this time. When the station was ‘open’, a board would be placed on the
pavement outside the station to advertise it. It was also queried whether the
PCSO’s would be out alone. CBO Hall reported that there were issues of health &
safety involved, but as there were two PCSO’s based locally, one for Linton and
one for Fulbourn, it was possible they would work together and it was intended
for them to have access to a vehicle at times. Cllr Rossiter then queried
whether one or more officers could be available for the meeting looking at the
next stage of the Parish Plan on Wednesday 10th December at LVC. CBO Hall
reported that they would try. He then gave the Police Report. For the month of
October there had been 13 reported crimes; these consisted of 3 mobile phone
thefts, 1 wheelie bin stolen, letters from a postman’s bag stolen (discussions
were being held with the postmistress), and
milk from doorstep thefts. CBO Hall
then explained that calls for service were placed into differing grades
depending on the severity of the action required. During October there had been
5 ‘A’ grade calls for service; 1 ‘B’ grade and 1 ‘C’ grade. So far in November
there had been 3 ‘A’ grade and 9 ‘B’ grade calls. Councillors then queried
whether the PCSO’s could write parking tickets. CBO Hall reported that both he
and PCSO Di Bon had recently carried out speed gun checks at Horseheath Road.
PCSO’s could not issue speeding tickets, but could take registration numbers
which would then be followed up with a warning letter. They could and would be
issuing parking tickets. PCSO Di Bon then reported that she could stop a
speeding motorist and give advice, which in some cases would be heeded. The
Chairman thanked both officers for their time and hoped that they would be able
to ‘drop in’ more often.
County Cllr Dr T Bear’s written report had been circulated. Cllr Cornell noted
that the comments Dr Bear made with regard the Special Needs School at LVC were
different from those that had been reported at the Steering Group meeting by a
CC officer. Cllr Batchelor explained that different departments at CCC would be
at a different stage with this proposal and this was how the confusion could
occur. Cllr Cornell reported that she was concerned that nothing should be
missed because of this. This was noted by the meeting.
DC Mrs Smith reported that at the recent Scrutiny meeting at SCDC the motion
with regard a feasibility study for Linton Swimming Pool had been lost. She then
requested that the Council consider putting the further £4,000 required toward
the feasibility study . The Chairman reported this request would have to be made
by way of an official request to the Precept meeting and would need to be in by
1st December. Dr Cox queried whether the proposal for a SEN School at the LVC
was still proceeding, as the Council had still not seen any plans on which to
comment. Mrs Bald queried whether older people could obtain smaller size wheelie
bins and how? Mrs Smith would investigate. Mr Batchelor had nothing further to
report at this time.
The Planning and Finance Committee minutes were then considered with no queries.
Cllr Potter reminded all present that the Precept meeting was to be held on 10th
December and all bids were to be with him by 1st.
The payments due were then considered and approved.
Cllrs Potter and Cox signed the cheques. With regard the payment for Glasdon it
was agreed that the Clerk would check on the timescale allowable before deciding
whether to keep the dogbin or whether to return it at a cost of 20%. The cheque
for this item was not, therefore, signed.
Within this fortnights correspondence the following was of particular note:
Linton Music Society’s request for funding which was forwarded to the Precept
meeting. A letter from the Co-op store regarding transfer of the Justices
Licence. Discussion took place regarding under-age drinking in the village, and
although it was not known exactly where the alcohol was being obtained from, it
was agreed that the Co-op should be requested to bring this issue to the
attention of its staff. The Clerk reported a meeting she was attending with the
Area Manager on Friday 22nd. This issue, as well as the traffic issues, would be
taken up there. There were no further comments on the transfer of the licence.
A copy of the revised bus timetable had been circulated at this meeting. Mr
Batchelor reported having taken up the issues which concerned the Council at a
recent meeting with Stagecoach. They were being hard nosed about the revisions
and only seemed concerned with the needs of Haverhill residents. They obviously
felt that Linton was well served with only two buses per hour. The Clerk
reported that ex Councillor Linsdell, who worked for Stagecoach had reported
that efforts were being made to organise a ‘one-ticket’ purchase for residents
of Abington who could then board a 13A bus in Abington village, get off at
Linton Police Houses on A1307, wait for the Service 13 some 12-15 mins later and
travel into the village.
The County Council’s Draft Corporate Plan was on the Agenda for the Policy
Working Party straight after this meeting. Two letters regarding the Fireworks
display had been covered under an earlier discussion.
A request from Granta Playgroup for funding for capital items had been received.
Discussion took place regarding this request for up to £350. As a result Cllr
Batchelor proposed that £350 be granted to the Playgroup. This was seconded by
Cllr Hammett and agreed unanimously by the meeting.
Mr Braithwaite, a resident, had forwarded copies of correspondence between
himself and CC Dr Bear regarding the lack of a footpath on Back Road from some
years ago, now seeking the support of the Parish Council. Discussion took place
regarding this issue and as a result it was agreed that this Council supported
Mr Brathwaite’s request for a footpath. It was further agreed that a letter of
support be forwarded to CC Dr Bear.
A letter had been received from Mrs J Nightingale advising of her appointment as
the LIS Governor for Community Links. Dr Rossiter noted that this Council was no
longer able to appoint a Governor to either the Heights or the Infants School.
The Clerk reported that the power to appoint was being closed. Each school could
now choose its own model for Governors and that the Infant School had already
decided on a preferred model which would include a governor specifically for
Community Links – the first holder of the position was Judy Nightingale.
Discussion took place and as a result it was agreed to write to Mrs Nightingale,
welcoming her appointment, thanking her for advising the Council and seeking an
occasional report. The Clerk then reported on receipt of information regarding
an equity share house in Balsham which was for sale. This house had to be sold
to someone with local connections. Two thirds of the property was for sale, with
the remainder rented. The information had been posted on the Notice Board.
Within Any Other Business the Chairman reminded all present of the Public
meeting regarding the future of Paynes Meadow Open Space which was being held on
Tuesday 25th November, 8pm at the Social Centre.
Dr Urwin reported on the very sad sudden death of ex Councillor John Hall. A
letter of condolence had been forwarded to his family on behalf of the Council.
Dr Urwin then reported on the leaf clearance work undertaken by Village
Custodian Colin Tofts every year. This year the problems had been exacerbated by
the sudden drop of most of the leaves over a short space of time. She queried
whether the Council should consider hiring or buying equipment to assist in this
collection. Discussion took place regarding this and as a result it was proposed
that Mr Tofts should trial a machine which both blows leaves into heaps and
vacuums up dry leaves. Two Councillors volunteered their own machines for the
trial. Mr Potter reported that should some such machine be either hired or
bought for the future, then Mr Tofts would have to undergo the relevant Health &
Safety training. It was agreed that a trial would take place and the results
reported back to Council. It was further agreed that the Parish Council’s own
Grass Contractors would be requested to bring in their industrial machine and
clear the remaining areas of concern for this year. Mr Tofts was to be thanked
for his efforts to deal with the backlog. DC Mrs Smith was also requested to
check which areas of the village should be swept by SCDC machines, how often and
when.
The meeting closed at 21.50.
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