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©Kirton News 2024
April 2024
The Editors Letter
I love this time of year. It’s starting to get warmer, it’s lighter and I’m definitely more inclined to leave the house for things other than work! Our bumper 36-page issue is packed with events happening in and around Kirton. Whether you enjoy quizzes or just want to chat to someone over a cup of tea, I think you’ll agree there’s something for everyone.
Our front cover sees St Peter and St Paul’s Church resplendent as Kirton’s centrepiece. Our beautiful church needs some tender loving care and if you can support the Fundraising Committee in any way, please contact Paula Davis on 07749 877578. Even if you can only spare an hour or two, it would make the world of difference.
Speaking of making a difference, our wonderful band of distributors ensure that a copy of Kirton News lands on your doormat for 10 months of the year. We are aware of the new housing developments and if anyone could spare an hour a month to deliver to these areas, please send me an email at the address below. We are also still looking for someone to deliver to Craven Avenue.
Our Meet The Locals feature on page 5, sees us chatting with Toni Barwell from Unirose, a unique care coordination and companionship service. On page 6 we have received a fantastic book review of A Gentleman in Moscow which coincidentally on my huge ‘to be read’ pile at home! I always look forward to emails from Jackie at Kirton Methodist Church. She has enthusiasm in spades and this month, on page 11, she tells us about the Methodist Memory Café. Their first coffee morning will be held on Wednesday 17th April in their church hall.
For 2024 so far, we will have an issue dedicated to the centenary of Kirton Bowls Club and we will also be having another front cover competition to celebrate the forthcoming Olympics in Paris!
I’m always contactable at Editor@kirtonnews.co.uk. I’d love to see some more suggestions for our 2024 issues. Do you have an interest you’re passionate about, do you have any recipes to share or have you read any fantastic books lately? We’d be more than happy to include you!
Meet The Locals
This month we’re talking to Toni Barwell from Unirose which offer care coordination and companionship locally.
I’ve been working in health and social care for the last 24 years and couldn’t imagine doing anything else… this is definitely my vocation in life. I love that every day is different and I adore working on the frontline, hoping to leave a positive footprint.
I have worked a range of interesting roles, starting my career as a Care Assistant working with people who have learning difficulties, Community Mental Health Worker, Registered Care Manager, Support Worker on the Endoscopy Unit in hospital, and as an Operations Manager. I have run a number of government and local funded projects, one raising awareness of Health and Social Care careers, another promoting Dementia Champions and another supporting the training opportunities across the care sector. I used to travel the country to audit care homes that needed to improve their services.
I’ve been working as an Independent Care Coordinator for over five years, I’m walking the journey with people, advocating and fighting for what’s right and just for people and their support networks. I help people plan for their current and future situations, exploring funding avenues, reducing utility bills and introducing equipment to help them stay well. This isn’t a job to me, it’s a way of life, which is how the people I work for can have access to me or the team, 7 days a week, at anytime of the day and night and we act as a responsive service.
My daughter, Millirose, is an integral part of how Unirose wasdeveloped. She is very proud of her amazing role. My husband,
Jamie, is so supportive of this way of life and gets involved as and when needed. As a family, we all enjoy Taekwondo, love all of our beautiful pets, enjoy Bonsia Trees and nature walks.
`
Kirton Church Fund
Winning numbers for the draw on 31st March will be in the May magazine and the 28th April draw numbers in the June magazine
Having received the books back after their annual audit I have again checked through them to update you on the winning streaks as promised. In all this last year we have had 20 different numbers winning with 2 of them winning twice and one lucky number three times!
Since we started the draw in June 2012 we have paid out £7315.89 in prize money and had a total of 81 different winners with 8 numbers winning once and 73 winning more than once.
Currently we have 51 players the same number as this time last year. Only four players are currently waiting for their first win. The other members have all won several times. Of our February winning numbers have both had previous wins. Congratulations to both players.
Looking back at my report in the April magazine last year I commented on my May 2019 report in which I said “Currently, money is being raised to replace the roofs of the chancel and side aisles, all of which are leaking quite badly when it rains heavily.” Unfortunately, five years on, we still need to replace the lead on all three of these roofs. We urgently need to raise money to do this. We have been working really hard to raise the very large amount of money needed. We are working on getting grants but we do need to match fund these.
Kirton Church Fund is one way we raise money for the church. You could help us do this and be in with a chance of winning the monthly draw. Why not come and join us? We have plenty of room for more members and there is a very good chance of winning. It’s still only £5 a number each month as it was when we started way back in June 2012. Not much else has stayed the same price since then! Most of the members pay annually (£60), some pay £30 for 6 months, some £15 for 3 months or you can of course pay the £5 monthly if you wish. The choice is yours. You can also have more than one number. Anyone over 18 may take part.
The prize fund is ¼ of the money taken each month. The rest of the money goes to Kirton Church. The more people that take part the higher the prize money and the more money we raise for the church. Registration forms are available from Fay, please ring 01205 723529, or pick up a form from the back of the church or from Paula’s Gifts on Station Road. If you would like more information please give Fay a ring.
February 2024 Winners
1st PRIZE - £47.81 - TICKET NUMBER: 65
2nd PRIZE - £15.94 -
TICKET NUMBER: 30
Data protection. All information (name, address and phone number) of Kirton Church Fund members is held solely for the purpose of managing Kirton Church Fund and is not passed on to any other organisation or used for any other purpose.
Feathers from Above
We would like to introduce our latest In Memory Appeal for 2024, Feathers from Above. At St Barnabas Hospice we recognise the importance for those in our local Lincolnshire communities (not just those touched by Hospice care) to remember their loved ones. Every two years we present an ironwork campaign, which consists of a bespoke, handmade ironwork that can be displayed at home or outside in the garden. Our previous ‘In Memory’ campaigns include the Forget Me Nots at Lincoln Castle, Dragonflies at Doddington Hall, and Forever in our Hearts at the Deans Green, Lincoln Cathedral.
This year we are proud to be working with local artist Kevin Baumber, who has designed and created our incredible feather ironwork. Feathers from Above will be presented in the beautiful surroundings of Aubourn Hall, Gardens and Grounds from Thursday 2nd May to Sunday 19th May, 10am - 4pm. This will include the 1,000 feather ironworks forming a stunning interactive display of art. It offers a wonderful day out to enjoy the grounds at times that are not usually open to the public.
In addition to the day experiences, on the evenings of Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd of May we will be hosting special opportunities of reflection. This will consist of ambient music, a live saxophonist, welcome refreshments, and a display our supporters' dedications.
A feather ironwork is available to purchase for £40, which includes an engraved tag of your loved one for you to keep forever.
If you are interested in coming along to any of our Feather from Above events or would like to purchase a feather, please visit our St Barnabas website https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/
Thoughts brought home from aboard
A short story sent to us by Bill Crewdson
- Part 2
The meeting was to take place at 9pm in Michael’s Hotel room. The appointed time came and went. Michael was about to give up hope when the door burst open and two very large men entered the room carrying pistols, they were members of the Stasi - the East German Secret Police.
Michael was over-powered and taken prisoner.The two men bundled him down the stairs and into the ubiquitous Black Mercedes which drove off at high speed. After a few hours of fast driving out of the city, the car pulled up outside a small cottage off the beaten track. Michael was hustled inside. The cottage was I it by oil lamps and bereft of any furniture save for an old kitchen table and two rickety typists chairs,
One of the chairs was occupied by a sprawling figure with it's back to Michael as he came in. This is not good he thought, I'm as good as dead.
Michael was thrust into the other chair, his arms and legs were secured to it by means of strong ropes. Whilst he was being tied up, two more figures entered the room. One was a man of about fifty, medium height and stocky build and wearing a heavy overcoat. The starkness of his shaven head was offset by the luxuriant growth of beard on his face. Michael recognised him immediately from his file photo, he was Colonel Otto Wietz, the Stasi's chief Interrogator.
The other figure was that of a woman, about thirty, long black hair shiny as a raven's wing, with a face and figure designed to haunt most men's dreams. She was wearing a tattoo, a small discreet one on the back of her left hand. Her name was Helga Bieus and she was one of the Stasi's top Agents. In spite of his dire predicament Michael gazed at her appreciatively for although the expression on her face spoke of indifference her eyes told a different story.
Colonel Wietz enjoyed bringing Helga along to these occasions he thought she would be impressed by his power and ruthlessness and eventually succumb to his desires, although thus far she had rejected him. He approached Michael's chair and spoke.
'Ah! Mr Grey - at last we meet, although I am sure you do not share my enthusiasm. I regret to say that your journey has been a wasted one".
He then snapped out an order to one of the guards, who reacted immediately by spinning the chair opposite around to face Michael. He was shocked to see sitting across from him the double agent he was supposed to meet, looking very dead with a bullet hole in centre of his forehead.
Admission to Kirton Nursery School – Don’t End Up on the Waiting List
Places are already filling quickly for September 2024 in Kirton Primary School’s award-winning Nursery.
If you know anyone else who might benefit from the village school’s excellent Nursery facilities, please let them know they will need to apply early. Remember, they are the only local provider with fully qualified, schoolteachers. The difference between those children who have attended the school’s Nursery, and those who have attended another nursery or no nursery, is stark when the children enter our Reception class. The children at Kirton Nursery School begin to learn numeracy and literacy skills, including phonics, as soon as they begin their journey with the school.
If your child’s date of birth falls between 1.9.20 and 31.8.21, and you would like a place at the Nursery, please send an email to enquiries@kirton-boston.lincs.sch.uk and the school will forward details on how to apply.
Remember, every child is entitled to 15 free hours a week at the schoolteacher-led Nursery. These can be taken in the morning, in the afternoon or all day, as long as the Nursery has enough places available. The Nursery is regularly oversubscribed.
As well as the 15 free hours a week, to which all three-year-olds are entitled, the Nursery offers additional sessions over and above these, as well as flexibility when selecting sessions for your child. You may choose mornings, afternoons, or a mixture of both, including full days - or even 5 full days a week. The Nursery will do its best to accommodate your request.
Additional sessions, above the free entitlement of 15 hours, may be purchased at a cost of £12.50 for 3 hours. This is extremely competitive. Eligible working parents may actually be entitled to 30 free hours for their child. If you are unsure as to whether this may apply to you, please contact the school for advice or visit the Nursery’s website. Lunch is also available if required.
Kirton Nursery School has had its outdoor area extensively remodelled – at a cost of eighty-three thousand pounds, to ensure the highest possible, quality outdoor provision.
Ofsted said of the Nursery:
Children in the Nursery Year settle quickly and make a good start to their school life. Staff build effective relationships with parents to meet children’s learning and care needs well. Relationships between adults and children throughout the early years are nurturing and positive. Well-structured routines and procedures mean that children enjoy their time in school and are kept safe. They cooperate with each other and behave well.
For further information, contact the office at enquiries@kirton-boston.lincs.sch.uk or on 01205 722236.
Letters to the Editor
Kirton town Hall - Last Night of the Proms 2023
Dear Editor
An amazing turn out again for this annual event. Kirton Brass band were fantastic as ever and had everyone tapping their feet, obviously enjoying themselves. A ploughman’s supper was served in the interval and in the second half, well known favourites had everyone waving their flags just like the Albert Hall audience in London. Thank you to all who came along to support the Town Hall. All monies raised go towards making sure the building continues to be available for the benefit of the residents of Kirton.
Dear Editor
Our Harvest Supper was held at Kirton town Hall again, as we cannot use the kitchen in the church. ( It is in need of serious refurbishment to meet environmental health standards)
Thank you to all who attended the event and continue to support our fundraising efforts to raise money towards a new roof on the church, as well as the other structural improvements that are needed. As always though, more support from the community would be very much appreciated.
Those who attended enjoyed a hearty sausage and mash supper, followed by home made apple crumble or trifle. There was an excellent raffle of harvest produce followed by a mini auction of produce.
Thank you to Ann for cooking for us and for the church volunteers, who though few and ageing in number, manage to put on successful events. Our next event is the Christmas Tree Festival on 2 and 3 December. The Christmas craft fair in the Town Hall is on 2 December, so why not combine the two events. Refreshments will be served at both, so no need to go hungry .Do come along and support your village.
Dear Editor of Kirton News, I am a very concerned resident and I respond as follows to Mr A Bowen and The Kirton Car Park Group (KCPG) letter to you in the November issue of Kirton News.
While Mr Bowen states that Cllr Astill who led the discussion for item 7 on the agenda regarding the Town Hall car park, may have spoken eloquently and suggests that the current situation hadn’t been thoroughly planned, however prior to joining the council did he not regularly attend Council meetings as a member of the public? I would suggest that Cllr Astill quite possibly witnessed first-hand the discussions that the council had at the time of the decision-making process, which according to the Parish Council minutes website during the April 2022 meeting May AGM, June 2022, August meeting and in September in the Clerk’s updates, where it’s minuted that A Booth agreed as Chair of the Town Hall committee to sign the contract on behalf of the THMC, and yet the then Mr Astill had maintained silence throughout all of those meetings and yet only chooses to speak out now as a councillor?
What is very apparent to myself and I believe many, is the fact (according to the Parish Council minutes) is that the carpark had been discussed at least 4 times in the past was also an opportunity for KCPG to have their say prior to a decision being made, and yet they didn’t, so I would suggest 4 potential opportunities missed to speak up about this hence Mr Bowen’s letter is rather pointless and too late.
While Mr Bowen and the KCPG claim that they wish to change the way the restrictions to suit themselves and the Kirton Town Hall Management Committee (KTHMC) it’s worth noting that it has been revealed in the past that both the Parish Council and the THMC both signed the contract for the restrictions which very much suggests that Mr Bowen is incorrect, why would the THMC agree to sign the contract if they weren’t happy with the arrangements?
Mr Bowen goes on to say that all opinions are valid, and yet he states that he lives ‘close’ to the said car park? One would have to assume that he has quite possibly been significantly affected as it would seem that he has lost his own personal place to leave his vehicle(s) 24/7 despite having his own driveway with room for several vehicles. This is where I suggest that the matter of self-interest emerges in this discussion.
Another point is that it’s not just Mr Bowen and the minority that is observing this car park, it’s actually many residents within the community such as myself as a long standing resident of Kirton, and I believe there’s a silent majority out there who actually find it easier to collect and bring their children to and from school who of course are not going to attend meetings to say that they are happy with the new arrangements, and not having to battle to find space in the car park and use nearby streets which have no restrictions as they have done in the past. After all, isn’t it human nature to say nothing when happy and only speak out and make a fuss if it affects them? Believe me when I say the majority are happy with the current arrangements.
Mr Bowen seems to miss the obvious facts such as there are regular meetings and sessions of lunch club, dance & exercise classes, coffee mornings and Slimming world are there as well as during term time a place for parents to drop off and collect kids with a school across the road that has some 500 or more children attending.
Well, I think this is all starting to look more like sour grapes of those who have abused the system that has caused these restrictions to be imposed in the first place, if Mr Bowen wants someone to blame maybe have a look at his own actions first?
In any case, if this was a car park in Boston, or for that matter most towns and cities in and around the UK everyone would have to be paying for it! Well maybe that’s what KCPG want, and we will all quite possibly be thanking them for soon if they have their way and make us all pay? This car park has always been free, as it should be, and I say to the Parish Council its’s a job well done from the silent majority, please keep it how it is, it’s available for anyone to use for 3 hours. Seriously, how long could you shop for in Kirton? My answer would be much less than 3 hours.
After all, there is plenty of all day parking in surrounding streets, as well as one hour parking all around the War Memorial in the centre of Kirton, or are the minority too lazy to walk more than 10 paces?
Kirton Parish Council, please listen to the silent majority and not the noisy minority, who ridiculously think it’s somehow their given right to park there all day and night because they are too lazy and it suits them, and ruining it for most of us.
It seems to me that this KCPG group is a very small minority who are only immersed in their own self interest to get what just selfishly suits them.
If we all end up having to pay for parking, we all know that it would be a complete travesty of fairness to disadvantage many, to appease the ones who make a fuss and shout loudest!
Mr Bowen and the KCPG are not worth listening to, just the same as all the high court armchair judges that reside in the toxic local community group on Facebook.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, JUST LEAVE IT HOW IT IS! Yours sincerely,
Kirton Kids Club
and farewell from Caz
Finally we have sunshine – this is our last half term of the school year – sadly we will lose some children to secondary schools and some children simply move on – to those we wish our best and hope their new schools will be good to them and they will remain happy and healthy.
The Kids Club runs alongside the Primary School term times so it’s easy to know when we are open and when we are not.
If you wish to get hold of us please phone 07583 762072 – emails can only be answered when the club isn’t open as there is no internet at the Youth Centre.
But the phone is manned between 7.30am and 9am – and after 1pm to 6pm. Places for September are nearly all taken already but any places left will be published when we get to the new school year.
Thank you to all parents and carers who have used the kids club in the past and those who have chosen us for the future.
I hope the Club’s success will continue for another 24 and a half years!
On this note it is with a lot of sadness that I have to tell you that I have decided to move on to ‘pastures new’.
I have been with the club since it was first thought up in October 1998 and opened in January 1999.
There have been a few ‘bumpy’ times and times when none of us thought the club would keep going – but with lots of help we are still here nearly 25 years down the line.
As this will be my last magazine update I would like to thank Kirton Magazine for always publishing my reports – to KMB for sponsoring our arts and crafts for so many years, to Kirton Consolidated Charities for helping us with numerous activities and updates of toys and equipment, to Kirton Co-op for their continued support and food share facilities, to the Youth Centre Committee for being there when needed and to our own Staff and Committee for advice and help – and to the Head of the Primary school and the numerous volunteers who have helped us over the years – giving freely of their time.
There are so many ‘thank yous’ and not enough space to put them all so as my last time of writing this update a huge ‘THANK YOU’ to everyone who has any part in making Kirton Kids Club the success it has been and those who will continue to make it so.
Kind regards
Caz
A Gentleman in Moscow
written by Amor Towles
Amor Towles was born and raised in Massachusetts, in the Boston area. He graduated from Yale College and received an M.A. in English from Stanford University.
He published A Gentleman in Moscow in 2016, which also made it to the New York Times bestseller list.
Prior to delving into the events covered in the novel, it’s essential to understand the societal structure and historical context leading up to this period. The rigid class system under the Tsar, which relegated the majority of the population to lower-class status while a privileged upper class of landed nobility held power, sets the stage for the discontent that eventually erupts into revolution.
The February Revolution of 1917 marks the first major upheaval, resulting in the ousting of Tsar Nicholas II and the establishment of a provisional government. However, it is the October Revolution later that year that truly transforms Russian society, leading to the abolition of the nobility and the establishment of Soviet rule under the Bolsheviks.
The novel delves into the aftermath of these revolutions, exploring the challenges and transformations brought about by Soviet rule. The flight of many members of the Russian nobility and the creation of the Soviet Union in 1922 mark the beginning of a new era fraught with ideological struggles, economic challenges, and political repression.
In summary, the novel offers a rich tapestry of Russian history, spanning from the twilight of the Tsarist era through the tumultuous decades of Soviet rule. By intertwining historical events with the lives of its characters, it provides a nuanced exploration of the human experience amidst the backdrop of sweeping societal change.
On June 21, 1922, Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov receives a life sentence of house arrest at Moscow’s Metropol Hotel from a Bolshevik tribunal. The charge stems from his alleged composition of a poem in 1913 with revolutionary themes. As a member of the dwindling Russian nobility amidst the rise of Communist governance, he returns to the hotel after his hearing only to find most of his belongings confiscated and himself relocated from his opulent third-floor suite to a modest sixth-floor room.
In the initial weeks and months of his confinement, the Count struggles to adjust to his new reality. He grapples with restlessness and a lack of purpose, passing his days engaged in activities like reading, visiting the barber, dining at the hotel’s Boyarsky and Piazza restaurants, and frequenting the Shalyapin bar.
Crafting a compelling narrative within the confines of a stationary setting presents a considerable challenge, yet Towles exhibits masterful skill in doing so. Through his adept storytelling, he infuses the tale with excitement and intrigue, creating a captivating story that flourishes despite its constraints. This novel adeptly explores the Count’s journey within his confined world, showcasing Towles’ prowess as a writer.
This book excels on many fronts, earning my utmost admiration. Upon finishing such a remarkable work, one experiences a profound sense of dislocation from reality, realizing that something within oneself has shifted or awakened. “A Gentleman in Moscow” accomplishes this feat, leaving readers spellbound and contemplative. It is a testament to Towles’ talent that I unequivocally award this novel a rating of 5 stars.
Methodist Memory Cafe
Many people have visited Kirton Methodist Church. You may have come to the Services, Christmas or Spring Fayres, Young at Heart or Tots, Toast and Tea. We hope that you have enjoyed and a warm welcome and felt at home. We would also now like to offer a warm welcome to those who are living with memory loss and those who are seeking to support them. We will be holding a Coffee Morning every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month between 11.00am and 12.30pm. The atmosphere will be relaxed and informal. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate will be in plentiful supply as well as a large selection of biscuits. There will be music, quizzes, board games, and jigsaws. Or, you may just want to come for a cuppa and a chance to make new friends in a similar situation. We will also invite a variety of professionals who will be able to give advice on matters such as finance and medical issues. As the Café develops, we would be interested to learn what its members need or would like to have included in the mornings.
Our first Coffee Morning will take place on Wednesday 17th April 2024 in the Methodist Church Hall. We are looking forward to meeting you!
If you have any questions, comments or suggestions please feel free to email Jackie at Kirtonfamilyworker@gmail.com or call on 07907 865919.
Classic Car Club Charity evening
Last week the Boston Classic Car Club held their annual charity night at the Graves Park Social Club in Kirton. The evening is dedicated to presenting the amount collected by the Club over 2023 to the charity or charities nominated by the membership. The charities chosen were suggested by member June McCreary in memory of her husband Ian who passed away in 2022 and was sadly followed by June herself last year.
A total of £1500 was split equally between, Marie Curie Lincolnshire, MacMillan cancer support and the St Barnabas Hospice.
During the presentation two of our younger members, Emmy and Pip Knipps also handed over their pocket money to the charites in memory of their Grandad, the late John Fisher.
Kirton Consolidated Charities
has a property to let
A 1-bedroomed bungalow is now available with lounge, kitchen, and bathroom at 95 London Road, Kirton for a single senior citizen. Maintenance Contribution £175 per month.
This property will soon be available and any interested parties who are inhabitants of the village of Kirton or the neighbourhood, should apply in writing, giving full particulars, to: The Clerk (Mrs J Barnes), 21 Sea Lane, Butterwick, Boston, Lincs PE22 0HG by the 6th April 2024.
Former patients invited to help Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance celebrate 30th birthday
People treated by Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) are being invited to get in touch and help celebrate its 30th anniversary. LNAA first became operational in May 1994 and since then has responded to over 28,500 missions. Its pilots, doctors and paramedics provide the very best pre-hospital emergency care possible to some of the most seriously ill and injured people in Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire.
To mark 30 years, the charity is encouraging former patients or their families to get in touch and share their stories.
LNAA’s Patient Liaison Manager, Hayley Burton explained: “We have treated thousands of patients, and they are at the heart of everything we do. It is wonderful when former patients allow us to share their stories as they highlight how vital our life-saving service is within our local communities, whilst recognising the amazing work of our crew who respond, in average, to four potentially life-saving missions daily.”
Ruth has every reason to be grateful to LNAA. In the space of just 3 years, she has been airlifted to hospital twice after sustaining serious injuries from horse-riding accidents.
In June 2009, Ruth was jumping her horse in a field at her home near Grantham, Lincolnshire. When she was walking to leave the field, the horse reared and lost balance. Ruth was knocked over and her horse landed directly on top of her, breaking her pelvis in four places.
In October 2011, Ruth was riding in the very same field when she was thrown again, resulting in a broken leg.
Both times, the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance was called, and the doctor/paramedic teams treated her before deciding the quickest and safest option to transport her to Lincoln County Hospital was by air ambulance. Reaching up to speeds of 160mph, she arrived in a matter of minutes and was transferred into the care of waiting clinicians.
Ruth said: “The difference that the Air Ambulance makes when you have a serious injury and are in pain is outstanding!”
The team at Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance are wanting to share stories spanning every year of the charity’s existence during its 30th Anniversary year. If you or a loved one has ever needed the services of LNAA and would like to share your story, they would love to hear from you at: media@ambucopter.org.uk
Frampton Gardening Club
If you are a regular reader of the Frampton Gardnening Club news, you will know we have been having a break from meetings until March 28th 2024.
We did however, have our annual lunch at the Thatched Cottage, Sutterton in January, when over 20 members enjoyed a lovely meal. Thanks go to the staff at the Thatched Cottage for their hard work and hospitality, and Di Froy, one of our committee members, also thanked Ray Harding and Maggie Welberry for organising it for us.
We start again, with a talk by Peter Skeggs – Gooch from Thorncroft Clematis. As there are many varieties of clematis, besides the different groups, I’m sure there will be many people asking the question ‘When should I prune mine?’ This is the start of a varied programme for this year.
If you are interested in joining us, (and you don’t have to have a garden to be interested) then you would be most welcome. You can turn up on the night at Frampton Village hall, Middlegate Road 7.30pm, or contact Ray Harding on 01205 723181or Maggie Welberry on 01205 722382. Our meetings are always on the last Thursday in the month and your first meeting is free.
Kirton Parish Council Meeting Minutes
- February 2024
Present: Councillors:
Cllr P. Watson, Chair, Cllr D Jarvis Vice Chair, Cllr C. Astill, Cllr A Bowen, Cllr M Elston, Cllr Pryke, Cllr M Sohail, Cllr J Stephenson and Cllr S Watson. Also Present: Clerk D. Fairweather. County Cllr Brookes
Public Forum
No comments.
Reports From Elected Borough And County Councillors
MB – contacted by residents of Fairways regarding the parking in their road on Sundays by people attending the Orthodox Chapel. Advising that parking is dangerous. Cllr Brookes had agreed to meet residents on site but felt it correct to have a Parish Councillor as well as the PC have been dealing, successfully with the problems. It was felt that the problem occurred due to the Doctor’s surgery car park being unavailable for two weekends. Cllr Astill to attend with Cllr Brookes. Weight Limit at Kirton end requested by residents. Highways will not put a weight limit on the road but there has been a traffic survey conducted and awaiting results. Bungley Lane – resurfacing complete. Still floods at Boston Road end of Lane. MB has requested Highways if anything can be done. They have put in a forward planning brief for works. So hopefully will be sorted. Cllr Astill also commented on the flooding at the side gate entrance to the cemetery. Also mentioned a drain cover at Kirton End junction broken. Cllr Brookes advised can be reported to Fix My Street.
RP – parking on pavement in Willington Road and London Road, impeding disabled residents. Chair advised there is a link where these problems can be reported. Middlecott House nursery update. There is access to premises now. Five potential tenants with three applications made. Mud on roads – spoken with contractors beyond Black Bull. Have been told they clean as they go. According to residents it is more likely to be tractors. Residents should report registration numbers of vehicles to Police. Street and speed signs dirty. Requested LCC as it is their responsibility. Has asked LCC if PC could have a copy of their street cleaning timetables. Chicken manure on Bucklegate almost resolved. Still some smells in area. Asked if proper disabled sign is to be placed in Town Hall car park. Town Hall were looking into this. Town Hall representatives to ask at next Town Hall meeting. Parish Council Liaison meeting, main subject was the BBC are purportedly going to offer finance to Parishes to change all streetlights in their area to LED bulbs. Two publications sent out by BBC can these be forwarded to Councillors please. Concerns of housing in area, purchase prices and rent being too high for local people. Not enough social housing in Kirton. 30% of developments should be social housing but contractors then put in a variation of plans and BBC pass them. Perhaps a scrutiny committee is required?
To Receive Apologies For Absence
To receive and accept apologies for absence as given to the Clerk prior to the meeting by Cllrs Baillie and OConnor and Borough Cllrs Rylott and Middleton. All resolved to accept reasons given.
To Receive Declarations Of Interest Under The Localism Act 2011
None.
To Approve Notes Of Previous Meetings 9th January 2024
Proposed Cllr Astill seconded Cllr Elston that these be accepted as a true copy to be called minutes. Unanimous.
To Receive Updates From Clerk
Tree in Hemington Way – all cleared by Highways, awaiting resident to put in claim for damage to shed. Cllr Bowen – COE along with many large company’s are financially very sound. Has spoken with businesses in the village to sponsor a tree. Cllr Elston reported footpath in churchyard is in poor situation too. To report to Cllr Baillie. Has been reported to clerk that updates could be in a little more detail and not just bullet points. Chair questioning if Street lights in High Street have been reported on Fix My Street. Clerk advised that they are LCC not BBC responsibility and had spent some time speaking with the Street Light manager at BBC regarding the amount of time it has taken for them to advise of this fact, with a business having proof of reports of 18 months ago. No updates on whether they are now working but is constantly ringing along with another business owner in the village. Town Hall Gutters – awaiting contact for return date and price. Chair asking of Facebook, people requesting for permission to comment. Clerk advised that at the last meeting it was agreed that the page would be purely for information and not conversation.
To Discuss Orthodox Chapel Annual Rent
Cllr Astill and Clerk met with Florin Buda from Chapel regarding the rental issue. The Lease was agreed and signed in 2012 with a 60-year term and an annual rent of £50 with rent reviews every 10 years at the rate of CPI in October prior to increase. This being 6.2%, therefore being an increase of £3.10, to be rounded up to £5, as per lease. which he felt they would agree to this being back dated to 2022 but would check with his Council. Previous minutes state that a smaller amount of rent would be acceptable if the Chapel took on the maintenance. Unfortunately, it does not state whether this is purely for the part of their lease or the whole cemetery. Mr Buda advised that £50k had already been spent on the building as there were significant leaks which required attention in the roof and scaffolding had to be erected to repair these. Hard drive was put in and electricity supplied to the building. Clerk asked if Chapel are prepared to surrender lease, but this would not be acceptable. They are still interested in purchasing, but we advised the Parish Council would not be willing to sell.
To Discuss Footpath And Street Lighting
To receive information from BBC meeting only. Following on from Liaison meeting and the financial assistance offered by BBC, Cllr Pryke felt a survey of lights would be required in Kirton order to ascertain if any can be switched off or indeed if any new columns are required. Cllr Astill felt that as a village Kirton is not ‘overlit’ and would be inclined to feel more not less lights may be required. Cllr Jarvis felt there is a government grant for green energy. Clerk to find further details. Cllr Elston advised that although Boston Borough are wanting the majority of lights to be changed over to LED by 2024 but there is no mention in their carbon reduction plan. East Lindsey have included streetlights in their carbon reduction plan. They actually paid £694k to replace all lights in the district saving 530000kws energy and £110000 in operating costs per year, by being 68% more efficient. LED use a significant amount less energy and would therefore possibly pay for their replacement in less than two years. BBC are offering to loan Parish Council money at an annual rate of 4.5% to change all lights over to LED. It was felt that because they should be reducing their carbon footprint, they are wanting Parishes to change over all lights to help do that. What does Kirton Parish Council wish to do. Clerk to put together as much information as possible regarding the parish lights and more details of the loan to discuss again at a future meeting.
Finance
To Approve Payment of Accounts as per schedules for December and January. Breakdown on income and expenditure for race night and Senior Christmas Meal as requested. Proposed Cllr Elston seconded Cllr Astill, unanimous. Clerk requested if Clerk and Chair could be given delegated powers for expenditure for small works to Town Hall. As Cllr Astill is surveying the property it would be useful to be able to do small repairs, once approved with Town Hall, without the need for bringing back to a full Council meeting. Cllr S Watson requested what figure is suggested, clerk felt £1000 was sufficient at this time. Proposed Cllr S Watson seconded Cllr Jarvis this be put in place.
Planning
To Discuss Applications Received Since Last Meeting B/24/0057 – proposed cold storage, Vegan Vegetables, Hubberts Bridge Road, Kirton Holme.
Members Reports
PW – was a statement from the Council for the New Year to be put in Kirton News? Agreed may have been communication error between Cllr Sohail and Clerk AB – millennium signs in poor condition. Clerk had approached the Clean Up Squad if they would be able to do the work. CA – Kirton Town Hall meeting. Question of Wi-Fi not working regularly. Solar panels? Any further action. Bills from Town Hall had been forwarded to company to produce a quotation for the best way forward. Meeting between the two parties on 5th March before next Parish Council meeting, 6 o’clock start. Surgery – mowing completed at the back of Dennis Estate on second attempt. Brambles still require attention. Resident from Kings Court had previously written to Council regarding an overgrown tree, which Cllr Astill had cut down that day. Sewerage in King Street. Resident had mentioned when it rains sewerage comes up through the manhole covers. It has been fixed but it requires another rainstorm to evaluate if it has worked. RP – feels important that Councillors must talk to each other in order that work is not duplicated. King Street problem had been reported last year. Kirton News still does not have up to date details of Councillors. SW – regarding the problem in King Street, the local MP had been made aware of the problem. Clerk -had been advised there is a trailer as part of a deceased estate which the relatives would be happy for it to go and be used locally. Agreed £100 be donated. It was felt the trailer could be stored at the bier shed in the cemetery.
Date of next meeting
5th March 2024, preceded by Meeting with Kirton Town Hall Management Committee.
The Registers
Baptisms - We welcome them all into the family of the church:
4th November -Alksandra Karpaviciute
Weddings - We offer our congratulations to:
4th November - Marius Karpavicius
and Aksana Valko
Funerals - May they all rest in peace:
None this month