PARISH COUNCIL MEETING - During the public participation session, Will Davies (deputy head at Burghill School) attended the meeting to talk about possible plans for the pond and spinney at Whitmore Pool Common.

Councillors agreed to give permission to the school to use the Spinney, but would have to review any plans for improving the access to the pond.

Several jobs were given to the lengthsman; if you spot any highway problems for him, let clerk Mel Preedy know on 769480. Following the suggestion of introducing village gateways as a possible traffic calming measure in Portway and Tillington, sites were visited with a representative from Amey.

Unfortunately the sites at Portway were deemed unsuitable. As an alternative, red road markings, better signage and speed indication devices are being investigated. At the Tillington Common end of the village, it was agreed that the Tillington sign could be repainted.

The parish council agreed to apply for planning permission for the Tillington pathway, providing a safer access at the shop end of the path could be negotiated. Councillors agreed to write to Amey thanking it for its support and help with the project and to send a copy to the parish magazine. Following on from the success of the litter pick earlier in the year, it was agreed to jointly organise an annual litter pick with the support of the WI. An updated parish plan was approved, which should shortly appear at burghill.org.uk. The next council meeting is on September 8, 7.30pm.

SIMPSON HALL - Most group activities take a break over the summer and none meet this week.

SCHOOL CLEAN-UP - Will Davies, assistant headteacher at Burghill CP School, led parents in clearing, tidying and painting the school this week.