PARISH COUNCIL – The annual parish meeting and the AGM were held in May at the memorial hall with Councillor Paul Sheen in the chair. Also in attendance were three members of the public and Community Support Officer Rosina Cathcart. The annual report and chairman’s report were presented to the meeting. The next meeting of the parish council will be held on Tuesday, 7.30pm in the memorial hall.

PARISH FORUM – It was reported that the new footpath gates installed around the recreation ground were working well. Members of the group ‘Walking for Health’ would be suggesting that stiles in some other local footpaths be replaced by gates. There were no matters raised from the parishes of Dulas, Rowlestone and Llancillo.

AGM – Councillor Paul Sheen was re-elected as chairman. In the absence of the present vice-chairman, this election was deferred until June.

STANDING ORDERS – Amendments to the draft standing orders were adopted. Copies will be sent to all councillors.

PLAY AREA – The latest ROSPA report was still awaited. Some of the gates needed attention.

LOCAL SECURITY MATTERS – CSO Rosina Cathcart reported that the neighbourhood watch scheme was being expanded into the Longtown area. The Pact meeting was at Peterchurch on May 15.

FIRST RESPONDER UNIT – Councillor Mrs Overstall reported that the ambulance training had now been completed.

PARISH INITIATIVE – Quarterly visits are planned by the highways team, these are intended to deal with reported minor highways defects. The first visit is due in June.

PARISH PATHS – The parish council has been awarded the maximum grant of £1,200 for the coming year.

PARISH NEWSLETTER – A new editor has to be found for the publication.

MAY MARKET – On Saturday, come along to the memorial hall between 10am and 4pm where cakes, savouries, crafts, china, bric-a-brac, jewellery, plants, produce, local meat and preserves will be for sale and refreshments will be available all day.

OPEN SUNDAY – Barton Hill Farm will be open from 1.45pm to 4pm. There will be a tour of the farm with guide and commentary. This is part of Farm Open Sunday, a national event to enable people to visit a local farm, see what’s happening, look around and ask questions. Come and see cattle, sheep, cereals, pulses, potatoes and conservation crops and management. Refreshments will be served by St Mary’s Kenderchurch and an informal service of worship at 3.30pm will be led by Rev Ashley Evans.