 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
©Kirton News 2024
The Editors Letter
I really hope we’ve turned a corner now and Summer is finally here! Can I put my thick coats away now? Hello to you all and I think you will agree how wonderful our front and back covers look! A huge thank you to Kirton Primary school for their help in distributing our competition entries. We would like to say a very well done to our Winner, Casey Jane Vicarey and our 4 Runners Up. They will each receive a Waterstones voucher.
So, Summer 2024 will bring us Euro 2024, the Olympics and the General Election. I can’t pick which one of these will be the most entertaining if I’m honest, I’ll let you decide! This is issue is a bumper 36 pages again and I’m really happy to see so many contributions and Summer events!
This month’s Meet the Locals features Grandma’s Pudding in Friskney! A wonderful café run by adults with learning disabilities. Please see more on Page 5! We are looking for more participants for our Meet the Locals features. This is a full page of FREE publicity so please get in touch if you are interested! We can advise on wording and you don’t need a qualification in creative writing to take part!
Kirton Town Hall is at the very heart of our village (in more ways than one). I am sure many of you have attended at least one event held there in the past few years. The Management Committee are a very friendly bunch of people who are truly dedicated to serving the community and are always looking for new ideas. If you can spare some time to help out, please read more on Page 11.
As always, please send through any ideas or thoughts to me on Editor@kirtonnews.co.uk
I hope you all have a wonderful Summer and I’ll see you again in September!
Meet The Locals
This month we hear from Grandma's Pudding in Friskney!
We are a tearoom that is run by learning disabled adults from all over Lincolnshire (without funding). We raise money to keep ourselves going to enable us to support as many people as possible. The primary goal was to enhance life for adults with learning disabilities, help them gain confidence, find them jobs and social connections, independence and self esteem. The tearoom has now developed into a community hub for all and lots of people, make friends and connect with others who may be going through a similar life journey. We support those with Dementia and other illnesses. Carers also come along for a coffee, cake or lunch.
We serve good quality food and cakes. We have free social events, such as movie nights, to help with social isolation issues, with free supper and we are registered as a warm space.
We have recently won the Dame Barbara Windsor award (shown on ITV two weeks before Christmas 2023 and on Christmas Day on Good morning Britain) and we also won the BBC Radio Lincolnshire ‘Making a Difference’ Award under the Community category.
We would love to reach more people and also raise more awareness of where we are!
We are situated not far from the Wildlife Sanctuary and are open to everyone.
Our phone number is 07899953448.
People of course, can just walk in as it’s open for everyone.
We have a daily update on our Facebook page “Grandmas Pudding Co” too!
Kirton Church Fund
June marked the start of our thirteenth year of the Kirton Church Fund monthly draw. How quickly the time has gone! In this time we have raised over £22,500 for Kirton Church, so a very big thank you to all our members and especially those who have stayed with us from the beginning.
Both May winners have won before. In fact number 21 won second prize last month too! Congratulations to both of them!
Now is the time for many people to renew their membership and it does pay to keep in there! After all, if you’re not in it you can’t win it! When we draw out the winning numbers each month all the numbers from 1 to 109 are in the box. However, more than half of these no longer take part so some months we have to draw several numbers before we get a winner.
The prize fund each month is 1/4 of the money taken each month. The rest of the money goes to the Kirton Church Fund and as I keep saying we are working very hard to raise funds to replace the lead on three of the church roofs. This money really helps.
We have plenty of room for more members and there is a very good chance of winning in the Kirton Church Fund monthly draw.
Not already a member? Then why don’t you come and join us? You too could win! Anyone over 18 may take part. You can join at any time during the year and you can do it monthly if you wish at only £5 per month (and therefore £60 annually, £30 for 6 months and £15 for 3 months.) You can of course pay the £5 monthly if you wish. You can also have more than one number.
The July draw will take place on Sunday 28th July and the winning numbers will be printed in the September magazine
Registration forms are available from Fay, please ring 01205 723529 , or call in Kirton Church. Paula’s Gifts on Station Road also has registration forms. For more information about Kirton Church Fund please give Fay a ring.
May 2024 Winners
1st PRIZE - £48.75 - TICKET NUMBER: 66
2nd PRIZE - £16.25 -
TICKET NUMBER: 21
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.
Boston Classic Car Club
The last few months have seen many activities in which the Boston Classic Car Club has participated. Regularly each month the Club has two informal meets, arranged by the Club but welcoming any owners/drivers of classic vehicles. On the first Sunday there is an evening meet from 5pm at the Ivy’s on the A17 at Swineshead and on the third Thursday, a breakfast get together from 9.30 onwards at the Langrick Station Café, Langrick Bridge. Club nights continue to be held on the third Tuesday monthly at Graves Park, Kirton from 8pm and members continue to receive a monthly colour magazine – Boston Classic News.
The third Welding Workshop took place in early March and was well attended and appreciated by Club members. The end of March saw the Easter Bonnet meet at the We’ll Meet Again Museum at Freiston. The BCCC once again had a stand featuring four cars at the Practical Classics Restoration Show at the NEC held over three days from March 24 – 26. Also, Sandra Simpson, Club Secretary, was a nominee for national Club Hero Award – an honour in itself!
National Drive-it-day took place on Sunday 21st April and again attracted a good number of members who drove a nearly 50 miles route followed by lunch. Ideal for clearing the cobwebs from many of the cars!
Club members displayed their cars at the Skegness RNLI Lifeboat Station on 7th May and once again, a number of members took part in the Spalding Flower Parade on 11th May .June sees the regular informal get-togethers at The Ivy’s and Langridge Station as well as the Club attending the D Day Commemoration at Boston United’s football ground. Saturday, 22nd is the BCCC Annual Treasure Hunt which promises to be an entertaining event for members. Following closely on from this is the Classic Car and Vintage Festival in Boston town on Sunday 23rd and 2nd July sees yet another visit to the RNLI at Skegness for the BCCC.
August is the month for our Annual Show held at May’s field near Orchard Park, Hubbert’s Bridge, Boston. With an anticipated attendance of over 500 classic cars, commercials and bikes and free entry for pre – booked exhibitors it promises to be another successful show. Add in live music from the popular duo, the Dream Belles, appearances from personalities, ‘Fuzz’ Townshend (Shed and Buried; Car SOS} and Sarah Crabtree (formerly Bangers and Cash and sponsor of BCCC Annual Show 2024 with her company Evoke Classics), trade stands, a licensed bar and hot food, it will be something not to be missed.
Admission for visitors is £7.50 for adults, with accompanied children (under 14) free.
For further details and to pre–book a classic call Graham Lunn on 07719996795 or email glunn1960@gmail.com
Book Review: March Past! by Brigadier Lord Lovat MC, DSO
“March Past” is an autobiographical account by Brigadier Lord Lovat, a British Army officer and clan chief of the Scottish Highlands. The book offers an intimate glimpse into his experiences during World War II, particularly focusing on his leadership of the elite Commando forces during some of the most pivotal moments of the conflict. Lord Lovat, born Simon Fraser, is best known for his role in leading the 1st Special Service Brigade during the D-Day landings. His narrative in “March Past” is a blend of personal memoir, military history, and a tribute to the men he commanded in 3 & 4 Commando.
At D-Day it was his personal piper (Bill Millin) that, against the orders of the English War Office, piped the Commandoes ashore on Sword Beach while under heavy enemy fire. The quote attributed to Brigadier Lovat - “That’s an English order, we are Scottish” has gone down in folk law since. They went on to take Pegasus Bridge later that day.
Throughout the war, Lord Lovat’s commando forces earned a fearsome reputation among their enemies. Hitler’s infamous “Commando Order” marked them for special treatment if captured. Despite the challenges and losses endured during the conflict, Lovat’s bravery and strategic contributions were invaluable to the Allied forces’ victory.
Lord Lovat’s writing is straightforward and unembellished, reflecting his military background. The prose is clear and precise, often mirroring the discipline and efficiency he valued in his military career. However, it is also imbued with a deep sense of humanity and respect for his comrades.
One of the book’s strengths is its personal touch. Lovat does not shy away from sharing his vulnerabilities and the emotional toll of war. His recounting of the D-Day landings, in particular, is both harrowing and inspiring, capturing the chaos, fear, and determination of the moment.
“March Past” is not just a memoir but also a valuable historical document. Lovat’s first-hand accounts provide a unique perspective on key events of World War II, making the book an important read for history enthusiasts and scholars alike.
While the book is rich in detail and personal anecdotes, some readers may find it somewhat dense, especially those unfamiliar with military terminology and history.
“March Past” by Brigadier Lord Lovat is a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on World War II through the eyes of a distinguished military leader. It is a tribute to the bravery of the Commando forces and an insightful exploration of leadership in times of war. For anyone interested in military history, leadership, or personal accounts of World War II, this book is a valuable and enriching read - 5 Stars.
Cllr Anthony Bowen
Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance pays tribute to a special Lancaster on D-Day 80th celebrations
On 6th June 1944 a rather special Lancaster Bomber left its site at Raf Waddington to take part in the D-Day Operations. Eighty years later it is believed LNAA’s helicopter resides on that same site.
When LNAA moved across the road from RAF Waddington to its new HQ, it needed a name for the helipad. LNAA pilot, Cpt Tim Taylor began to investigate the history of the old aircraft dispersal site which the new helipad had been built on and soon realised he had uncovered a fascinating story.
The Kookaburras
No 467 Squadron was a Royal Australian Air Force bomber squadron based at RAF Waddington. Equipped with Avro Lancaster bombers, its crew flew operations in Occupied Europe until the end of the Second World War.
The squadron’s insignia was of a kookaburra with a snake in its beak and its motto – Recidite Adversarius Atque Ferociter, loosely translated as: “Your opponents will retreat because of your courageous attack.”
And the squadron, which was part of the No.5 Group, Bomber Command, certainly lived up to its motto as it gained a reputation for accurate raids on Germany, France and Italy between 1943 and 1945 and fourteen of the squadron’s Lancasters took part in the D-Day operations.
Every Lancaster Bomber in the squadron had its own dispersal site, These were areas adjacent to the airfield runway used for parking the planes.
Today, LNAA’s helipad is on one these dispersal sites, believed to be that of the famous Lancaster ‘S-Sugar’.
A very special aircraft
On the night of 11th/12thMay, 1944 S-Sugar completed its 100th mission, the first allied bomber to reach this milestone. Martin Willoughby tells the story of his father’s involvement on the night the Lancaster made history.
“My late father, Ted, a Bomber Command veteran, and Lancaster Engine Fitter served on the 467 Squadron’s famous Lancaster S-Sugar R5868. The plane’s nose art depicted rows of bombs, one for each operation completed. Over the course of the war, the rows grew as Sugar consistently returned from each mission.
“Flying with Bomber Command had the highest rate of attrition of any branch of the Armed Forces. If you survived, you were deemed incredibly lucky as 3,932 of the 7,377 Lancasters built were lost in action. Crews were superstitious and soon started to clamour to fly in Sugar, believing that she would bring them safely home
“Even when stood on its dispersal site, Sugar seemed undefeatable. One day, when Ted was working in the cockpit, with the aircraft being loaded with bombs, he heard the sound of heavy metal hitting tarmac. Looking out, he saw airmen running in all directions. A 4000lb bomb had fallen from the bomb bay but miraculously had not gone off!
“On 11th May 1944, Sugar left its dispersal site to undertake its 100th mission. Prior to loading the bombs, Ted chalked ‘100 not out’ on one of them.
“Sugar returned. It had sustained attacks from two German planes for 10 minutes but co-operation between crews in the skies enabled this veteran plane to escape.
“Sugar went on to complete an incredible 137 operations by the end of the war and, with fourteen other Lancasters from 467 squadron, it took part in a raid of German coastal batteries as part of the D-Day operations on 6th June.
“During the mid-1960s Ted embarked on his own mission to find his beloved plane. In 1969 he heard about a Lancaster stood at the entrance to RAF Scampton that may be Sugar. Turning into the gates, the familiar nose art with the bombs came into view. Ted could not believe it! His Lancaster had survived everything, even the scrap yard, where so many Lancasters went to after the War.
“Thanks to Ted, ‘Sugar’ was fully restored and today, this legend from WW2 proudly dominates the entrance to Bomber Command Hall, RAF Museum Hendon.”
Letters to the Editor
A Message from Claire Rylott
I can not believe I have now been elected a year, doesn’t time fly! I have just become a member of Kirton Parish Council and I am looking forward to getting involved after a 5 year break.
As a borough councillor I am always available if any resident has any local issues that they think I may be able to help with, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Back in 2021 Boston secured £21.9M in Town deal funding from the government to deliver an ambitious vision that will level up Boston and bring transformational improvements.
£14.8M of the funding was to revitalise the area called the PE21 project, situated around the bus station in Boston. The Borough Council announced recently that they had finally managed to purchase the old B & M site and car park. Hopefully now owning this missing piece in the jigsaw will mean we can finally see this project move forward.
Significant investment has been made in the town from the monies granted in the Levelling up Fund – including the transformation of Blenkin Memorial Hall, the rejuvenation of Dolphin Lane, transformation of Boston Railway Station, and the demolition of the former Ingelow Centre ready for the new Mayflower building, part of Boston College.
I was delighted to be asked to be Chair of Environment and Performance after the elections last year. I have recently been pushing for a Joint Scrutiny meeting regarding the pylons, a consultation sent out by Nationa Grid clearly shows the route will be through our ward. Many residents are clearly very unhappy with the consultation that was received. Perhaps some residents will come along to the scrutiny meeting. These pylons will be a blot on our beautiful landscape forever and I will fight the proposal. The second proposal from National Grid is for more cables underground running through our County. We should of realised when a Sub-Station arrived at Bicker we would have everything thrown at us!
Kirton and Frampton ward is a fantastic ward to represent, and covers a large area. As I said earlier I am always available should you require any help with issues in the ward.
Knitting up a storm for Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
As part of the 30th Anniversary celebrations due to start later in the year, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) are calling all nifty knitters to join together to create the largest yarn bomb ever seen!
The charity’s aim is to cover the whole of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire with hundreds of yellow helicopters and spread the message about their life-saving work. And they need knitters and crocheters to help create this mammoth masterpiece.
There are three ways people can take part. Individual knitters can create a single mini helicopter and display it in a local shop, pub, church, or other community space. More adventurous knitters are being asked to let your imagination soar and design a unique, eye-catching postbox topper, just make sure it includes a yellow knitted helicopter!
Or the ultimate challenge is to yarn bomb your community and join forces with fellow knitters to create a cornucopia of colour.
LNAA’s Volunteer Manager, Kate Kerrigan said: “This is a fabulous way to support the life-saving work of Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance from the comfort of your own home. With your help, we are looking to colour the counties of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire yellow with thousands of miniature helicopters.
It is so easy to get involved. Just grab your knitting needles and some yellow yarn and register your interest with Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance at ambucopter.org.uk/knitting We will then send you your knitting pattern which designer Amanda Berry has kindly allowed us use as well as lots of information to help you get involved.”
Thoughts from Abroad
Anthony Bowen emailed this photograph to me during his recent travels. Have any of our readers come across anything to remind them of home when abroad?
Weekly Coffee Morning Sponsored
by Kirton Parish Council
Join us every Friday from 9:30 AM to 11:15 AM at the Town Hall for a delightful coffee morning. Enjoy coffee, biscuits, and friendly chatter for just 70p. You’ll be served by a wonderful group of local ladies who are both friendly and interesting. All proceeds go to support local charities.
Come and be part of our community gathering!
Feel free to spread the word and bring along friends and neighbours. We look forward to seeing you there!
Volunteers are needed
As everyone in Kirton is probably aware, Kirton Town Hall was built over 100 years ago. Money was raised by the villagers and by a significant contribution from William Dennis, whose statue stands proudly on the edge of the Town Hall car park. (We have an archive in the Town Hall which explains it all)
The building belongs to the people of Kirton and is looked after by our Parish Council. For several years now, the day to day running of the Hall has been managed by the Town Hall Management Committee, a charity set up at the time in cooperation with the Parish council. We have staged events at the Hall over the years. From Parties in the Park, the Queen’s Jubilee, Memorabilia days, children’s parties, Last Night of the Proms by Kirton Brass band (which remains popular), photographic competitions, quizzes, and of course the ever popular lunch club once a month. (I’m sure I have missed some things) All the money raised by the charity is for the internal upkeep and maintenance of the Hall.
The Hall and Upsall Room are hired out at a very reasonable price for all kinds of events, to groups and individuals from Kirton and the surrounding area. There is a licensed bar that can be booked for events if needed, (provided by the Black Bull in Kirton). WIFI is available
Volunteers have come and gone over the years, some retired people and some just wanting to lend a hand.
We now need volunteers, perhaps recently retired, who may have some experience of organising events or have fundraising ideas, who would like to join us. Of course we will also always welcome anyone who would like to join our committee and help in small ways at events, all for the benefit of the people of Kirton.
If you think you can help please contact: Ann Booth on 01205 723345 or Paula Davies on 01205 722757. You can also find us on facebook.
New Footpath for Kirton Town Hall
The Parish Council had been discussing the Town Hall footpath for some time. It was uneven, and was brought to the attention of the Parish Council when a young lad ended up with wet shoes on a rainy day as he couldn’t walk on the grass to miss the puddles!
The Parish Council completed the exercise of footfall surveys and following a suggestion from a member of the public, it was agreed to make good the original path. They put in a new diagonal footpath to try and encourage people to walk towards the zebra crossing. The Parish Council would like to thank LAC Ground works as the work was completed in a few days. A mini ‘opening ceremony’ saw Lewis Stephenson cut the ribbon! The Parish Council would also like to thank High Up Drone for the aerial photography.
Frampton Gardening Club
We had a different, but interesting take on gardening, when our speaker for the April meeting of Frampton gardening club, was Hannah Sylvester, who is a medical herbalist.
Hannah trained in Western Herbal Medicine at Lincoln University and graduated with a BSc (Honours) in 2010. Hannah has been in practice for 13+ years, helping people with her individually tailored herbal prescriptions, and has helped people with a range of illnesses, including, skin conditions, neurological, muscular- skeletal and reproductive health.
We learned about herbalists through the ages, and talked about connecting with plants and how to use them safely, explaining how herbs work.
Hannah also brought a selection of dried herbs and tinctures with her, which were passed around for us to see, along with empty t-bags, which are used to put the herb of choice in to make a tea.
Certainly the list of plants which could help us if used safely, would include some that many of us already have in our gardens. A very interesting and informative talk.
Our next meeting is the AGM on May 30th. All are welcome to attend, especially anyone who would like to join us on our committee.
On June 27th our secretary, Maggie Welberry has kindly offered to host an ‘open garden’ at her home.
In July we are joining Phil Haines coaches for an outing to Cambridge Botanical Gardens, so our next meeting at Frampton Village Hall will be on August 29th, when the speaker is talking about Lincolnshire cheese. (Annual subscriptions are also due in August)
For more details about the club, contact Ray Harding on 01205 723181 or Maggie Welberry on 01205 722382.
Kirton Parish Council Meeting Minutes
- May 2024
Present: Cllr P. Watson, Chair, Cllr D Jarvis, Vice Chair, Cllr C Astill, Cllr F. Baillie, Cllr A Bowen, Cllr M Elston, Cllr L O’Connor, Cllr R. Pryke, Cllr C Rylott, Cllr M Sohail, Cllr J Stevenson, Cllr S Watson Clerk D. Fairweather. Also Present: twenty-four members of the public
To Receive Updates From County Councillor Representative
Cllr Brookes: Kirton End: Proposed reduction in speed limit to 30mph. The traffic surveys and assessment against LCC’s Speed Limit Policy has now been completed. It has been assessed as a borderline case for a 30mph speed limit. It is therefore programmed to go to the Planning & Regulations Committee on the 15th of July with a recommendation to approve a reduction to 30mph before it can go out to formal public consultation. Cllr Brookes will be attending that meeting to speak in support of the proposal The Highways Manager has requested that adverts posted on LCC assets be reported on Fix my Street. for highways action if it is deemed necessary.
Traffic Management Review
A review of the county council Traffic Management Policies is being undertaken which includes speed limits speed cameras, school safety Zones, blue badge holders and traffic calming measures. A survey is being conducted asking for feedback on residents views which can be accessed on the following link https://www.letstalk.lincolnshire.gov.uk/lincolnshiremoves. The survey closes on the 17th of May. Drainside North: Potholes have been dealt with.
Bus Services Survey.
The latest county views survey is requesting views on bus services in the county and can be accessed on the county council website. The survey closes on 27th May.
Borough Cllr Middleton: Kirton has twenty-five tree preservation orders. Many of the TPO’s are from 1950’s with trees not alive today being the reason.
Borough Cllr Rylott: Concerns regarding the over ground pylons as opposed to under ground cables for the Grimsby to Walpole project with National Grid.
Pushing for a Joint Scrutiny Meeting of which the Parish Councils will be invited to have their opinion heard.
Borough Cllr Pryke: As well as the first TPO’s notification there is to be a second listing to be received.
Confirm Cllr Brookes comments regarding fly postings in the area.
Heritage Lincolnshire to hold two meetings and will be visiting Kirton to look at schemes that have been successful.
Grant also to be discussed regarding the Town Hall tower. Invitations will be for Clerk and Cllr Elston. Clerk had previously been successful with a grant application and knew nothing of this.
Pylon plans – Outer Dowsing have put up new signs for farmer owners of land. Now at examination stage. From this there will be a community benefit fund. Indications would be particularly biased to employment.
Statement from Cllr Astill. Clarification required. Concerns of, if Cllr P Watson is nominated for Chair again how can the Council vote on this not having received the report from the Monitoring Officer regarding the recent complaint despite being promised at the last meeting. With the lack of this report no member of the Council could know if the code of conduct had been broken bringing Kirton Parish Council into disrepute.
Cllr P Watson responded with, the recommendation to Cllr Watson from the MO was that he should give an apology to the complainant at the next meeting. The MO did not state that the apology be done publicly however Cllr Watson felt it was appropriate to make the apology publicly. The apology was duly accepted by the complainant, who also agreed it was the end of the matter.
Cllr Astill then asked why this information could not be forwarded to the Council prior to this meeting. Although the Chair had not sent the document to the Clerk, he felt it the Clerk’s responsibility to advise Council he was not prepared to include the response of the MO as the email was marked Private and Confidential and thus would have broken GDPR and privacy regulations.
The Election of Chair and completion of Declaration of Office
Cllr Jarvis was nominated by Cllr P Watson, seconded Cllr Baillie. Cllr Baillie commented that Cllr Jarvis had been in similar positions within his working life and would be an asset in the Chair. Having been on the Council for three years and knowing how it worked. Cllr Watson also confirmed Cllr Jarvis has a great amount of experience in the role.
Cllr Astill was nominated by Cllr Sohail, seconded Cllr Bowen. Cllr Sohail gave to the members her reasons.
Cllr Astill would be a vibrant Chair of the Council, following the numerous projects had completed on behalf of the Council. Cllr Elston felt it was grass roots and who had been out meeting the people of the village.
Both were asked to give a summary why they felt they should be considered for the post, which they did.
Chair therefore requested a show of hands on the two nominations. Cllr Astill asked if this should not be a private vote. Cllr P Watson had already checked with LALC regarding the issue and unless 7 days’ notice given to amend standing orders in favour of a ballot, a show of hands is what it would be.
On vote seven in favour of Cllr Jarvis 5 Cllr Astill.
The Election of Vice Chair
Cllr Jarvis nominated Cllr P Watson seconded Cllr Pryke. Cllr O’Connor agreed Cllr P Watson had worked in demanding situations over the last four months and would be the assistance to Cllr Jarvis which he himself felt he would value as his Vice Chair. Cllr S Watson supported the nomination of Cllr P Watson, due to his knowledge and experience and years on Council and in Chair. This would be valued with a new Council who were not experienced yet to hold the post.
Cllr Astill nominated Cllr Sohail seconded Cllr Elston. Cllr Astill felt Cllr Sohail was a quiet representative working behind the scenes, helping with social media, and meeting the people. Had been a Vice Chair on her previous Council. Cllr Elston confirmed it would be appropriate to have a lady on the top table. Cllr Bowen confirmed his agreement to this.
On vote seven in favour of Cllr P Watson 5 in favour of Cllr Sohail.
To Elect Parish Council Representatives
Town Hall Management Committee – 1 member. Cllr Sohail proposed Cllr Astill should continue in the post. Seconded Cllr P Watson, Unanimous
Sir Thomas Middlecott Foundation Charity – 1 member. Cllr Jarvis proposed Cllr Pryke to stay in post. Seconded Cllr P Watson.
To Elect Parish Council Committee Representatives
3 Human Resources Committee.
Cllr Sohail, proposed by Cllr Astill seconded Cllr Elston.
Cllr P Watson, proposed Cllr Pryke seconded Cllr S Watson.
Cllr F Baillie, proposed Cllr S Watson. Seconded Cllr O’Connor
Cllr Rylott proposed Cllr Elston, seconded Cllr Astill.
On discussions of only requiring three representatives Cllr Rylott stood down. Agenda item to amend number of HR and Standing Orders.
4 Finance Committee. Cllrs Pryke, Elston, and S Watson. Proposed on block Cllr Baillie seconded Cllr O’Connor. Cllr S Watson proposed Cllr Rylott to join seconded Cllr Pryke.
2 Cemetery Committee – not had this committee for a long time. Clerk asked. What would Cemetery Committee be responsible for? what would they do? Would they hold meetings? A Terms of Reference would have to be drawn. The outgoing Chair had suggested this as he felt the Council did not receive sufficient updates each month on happenings.
Cllr S Watson advised that the cemetery Manager report each month on burials, work required etc.
Cllr Astill advised he mad regular visits to the cemetery and had spoken of any problems in his members reports.
Cllr P Watson confirmed with Cllr Rylott there was a cemetery committee previously.
Clerk wondered if this was because originally the previous Clerk kept the cemetery post and was therefore adrift of the Council meetings.
Clerk reiterated she did not feel the need for a committee. Chair also felt anyone can check the cemetery no as Cllr Astill does and if anything requires attention report it to the Clerk.
Cllr O’Connor did advise in the past there had been problems and if Clerk were not available would anyone know how to deal with burials etc?
Cllr Pryke proposed seconded Cllr P Watson that this and the social media post be postponed until the June meeting. Vote 7 fore.
1 social media – Cllr Sohail felt this need not be refereed to the next meeting as although never an official title the system was working at present with Clerk and herself.
To Approve Minutes Of The Meeting Held On 2nd April 2024
Cllr P Watson proposed, seconded Cllr Baillie.
To Receive Updates from Clerk
Churchyard Trees – Planning had approved some works but only 1mtrs to 2mtrs and a maximum diameter of 20cms. Disappointing but the tree officer was a tree protector, which is their decision, but the PC will have the same problem with the other twenty trees in the Churchyard.
Broadband: could not gain access to tower due to works.
Solar panels – no progress made.
Town Hall gutters – Cllr Astill has updates in his reports.
Hemingway Tree. Replacement cost of shed forwarded to LCC.
Zebra Crossing – request had been made to Highways for extension of barriers.
To Discuss Town Hall Car Park
Kirton Town Hall Management Committee had discussed this previously and wished for the parking to return to how it was before and wish the original ‘Town Hall Car Park’ sign to return.
Cllr Jarvis proposed that a meeting be held with both parties to finalise matters for the last time.
Cllr Astill suggested that Cllr Bowen be given the opportunity to explain details of his surveys.
Cllr Pryke thanked Cllr Bowen for the details he has obtained over a considerable period. He also advised we had promised the people of Kirton a meeting to discuss this matter. He suggested the public therefore decides what will happen to the car park, albeit the decision would still be that of the Parish Council.
Whilst Cllr Bowen agreed a public meeting could happen the PC should put their recommendations to them.
Cllr Rylott suggested, let the people park in the Town Hall fee of charge as it was.
Cllr Jarvis proposed a separate meeting to be held primarily to discuss this subject. Seconded Cllr P Watson.
Cllr Astill proposed as Cllr Bowen had prepared these statistics, he be given the opportunity to explain them.
To Discuss Bicycle Racks At Town Hall
At the request of Cllr S Watson, the Council discussed briefly and agreed Cllr Bowen meet with KTHMC representative to suggest suitable sites. Cllr Astill advised this had been discussed at a meeting and the THMC did not want them as they did not feel there was a need. KTHMC however had no objections to, but they would not be willing to contribute towards it.
Cllr Stevenson felt there is an obligation to offer bicycle racks at a public building.
Cllr Pryke confirmed there had been proposals to encourage cycling.
Cllr S Watson confirmed whilst it had been the PC’s proposal they would pay for them.
Cllr Elston wondered if there was funding available. Cllr Stevenson confirmed there was. Cllr Elston proposed Cllr Stevenson and O’Connor investigate funding and bring to another meeting. Seconded Cllr Baillie.
To Discuss Maintenance Tenders
Clerk issued proposal of costings from four contractors.
1 rather cheap but confirmation from another PC advised no experience in cemetery maintenance.
1 expensive and rather particular
Clerk has agreeable references from two.
Cllr Baillie reported they are happy with the existing contractors.
Cllr Astill advised the resident of Hardwick Estate had received correspondence from LHP which he felt the PC should have sight of.
Grassed areas are to be dealt with on a different contract and will be cut more.
Proposed Cllr P Watson seconded Cllr S Watson that contractor No 2 be given contract for one year.10 for two abstentions.
To discussing forthcoming events
Clerk had circulated ideas from Councillors to raise money for the Christmas Meal.
Suggestions of bingo. Having mentioned at the coffee morning
Cllr Sohail briefly explained her idea for an Art Trail. Ask if local businesses are on board to have pictures in their windows having been drawn by the residents. There for one week and the residents vote on their favourite. Small entrance fee.
A Picnic in the Park and the Best Kept Garden had also been suggested as community cohesion events.
Cllr S Watson firstly asked what was happening with the senior citizens meal as the Council had not agreed to it, set date etc and was being advertised on social media. Cllr Astill believed this had been discussed. Clerk had previously checked with Town Hall that they did not wish to hold this event. Cllr Sohail advised that it had been on the calendar since the beginning of the year as the Town Hall had been booked.
Cllr S Watson was concerned that caterers need to be booked in advance and may be difficult to get one now for that date and therefore the date may have to be changed. Cllr Baillie also concerned it is May and nothing has previously been discussed for this meal. Similarly, it was very late to organise a Picnic
in the park and to get side stalls etc. She also felt that a few should organise and bring back faces to the PC and not discuss at the full Council meeting. Chair stopped the discussion of last year,
Clerk suggested that she and Chair be given delegated powers to organise and bring back results to the Council. Proposed Cllr Baillie, seconded Cllr Bowen.
To discuss street lights
Clerk circulated documentation regarding current costs of Streetlights. Numbers of lights, LED’s SON’s, SOX’s etc.
Only one quotation obtained as had not realised the cost and wanted to ask Council if should continue.
£27,000. Costly as equipment would need to be hired, approximately three weeks work but actual bulb was not the expense. As a guide if this were accepted the savings on electricity by doing the changes would take approx. 5 ½ years to repay. Clerk had investigated funding, but the lights are not the PC’s assets.
Cllr O’Connor asked if LED lights had a risk assessment been done regarding the risk of cancer etc.
Cllr Pryke suggesting Clerk request more details regarding the current costs.
BBC had offered to loan the cost of replacement lights, but it was at an inflated cost. Cllr Elston confused over quantity of actual lights as number differ.
Cllr Rylott stated in the retiring Chair’s statement, his future projects did not include the streetlights, but she feels, as one of the most expensive costs to the PC it must be priority.
Clerk advised the contractor would be prepared to do works on three stages if it assisted PC financially.
Cllr Stevenson advised the information regarding the loan from BBC was 1% above the Public Works Loan Board rate for up to a maximum of 10 years.
Cllr S Watson requested if solar lighting had been given consideration. Clerk had investigated them, and although models were improving there was no guarantees that the energy would be there to light the bulbs for time required.
Cllr M Elston – does payment back term have restrictions on money being paid back early? This is not confirmed in communications, but Cllr Pryke felt it could be paid back as and when.
Cllr P Watson – asking clerk, if there is not sufficient capital at present, could projections be made on expenditure to define what monies could be used over a period of time to initiate purchases to repay gradually. Cllr P Watson proposed Clerk to prepare for the next meeting, seconded Cllr Rylott.
To discuss town style for kirton parish council
Proposed Cllr Jarvis, seconded Cllr P Watson this item be moved to end of meeting if time prevailing.
To approve payments
Proposed Cllr S Watson seconded Cllr Baillie. unanimous
To discuss planning applications received since last month
Cllr Rylott declared an interest as on planning at BBC.
B/24/0176 – Oak Tree House, Horseshoe Lane – reserved matters regarding landscaping and layout.
B/24/0164 – Albert Bartlett – variation of Condition 2
To receive members reports
ME – out with CUS along London Road. Applied for funding for tower. EMAS had offered defibrillator training of the Parish Council were interested.
CA – footpath commencing 13th May. Contractor also to look at works on Town Hall roof and gutters which require finishing from previous works. Going forward it is good we have representatives from all wards and going forward communications with residents will improve. Having attended various other PC meetings recently in particular the Annual Parish Meeting at Frampton which he advised was impressive with various organizations in the village giving reports. Perhaps this is something Kirton should do.
RP – advised why the Frampton Annual Parish Meeting was successful is that earlier in the year it had been suggested for Councillors to suggest groups that could give presentations.
He felt at Kirton we did not encourage the people of Kirton to ask questions and receive answers.
and going forward this should be addressed. Cllr Baillie felt, although an innovative idea, it would make the Kirton meeting extremely long. Cllr Pryke advised it could be held on a separate evening.
Following on from pylons, another application is to be made to put more cables through the Parish, but no routes specified.
Mud on road, road signs illegible, quite a lot of complaints regarding LHP and grass cutting and lack of provision for parking of cars. Fly posting, pots holes reported. Drainside South being particularly bad.
There will shortly be a planning application for an exceptionally large ‘phone mast on Wash Road.
CR – fly tipping in Holme Road, reported already but done again.
AB – significant speeding in Station Road. If CSW takes off, this could be priority case. Cllr Jarvis advises reactive speed signs had been suggested previously. Speed in this Road should it be reduced to twenty mph.
Kirton Youth Challenge have been nominated for the token scheme in Tesco. Had spoken with Carl Sharpe who runs this group. There are various other groups using the Youth Club who need replacement lights.
JS – Community Ownership Programme £2m of match funding. Possibility of purchasing a property in the village to use as place for people to go, business, library etc.
Local Government Act 1972 Section Part 3 section 12. Giving details of the APM and APCM were
it was felt Kirton did not act legally in this. Clerk disagreed but Cllr Stevenson to speak out of meeting on matter.
MS - Digi Hub went well although we need to encourage more. Attended coffee morning and asked how long it been running. After research found it started in 1980. Felt they deserved a thank you.
FB – also heard the coffee morning are better attended now and the dig hub went well. Parking on Hardwick Estate, as previously stated with more than one car per household now.
LO – Were Council aware of problems at one school in Boston. An autistic child had been assaulted by several children at the school. Cllr O’Connor had contacted the school to ask what was being done, the Vice Head advised it had been reported to the Police. School is looking into their policies on such issues.
SW - using Fix My Street with fly tipping potholes. Witnessed on social media there were problems with parking outside the Orthodox Church. They went to look and there were hardly any cars in the Doctors but cars on the road. It appears there is still an issue with parking. Cllr Astill advised they did not p. out bollards as it was only a small event.
Youth Centre Kirton PC used to monthly donate money until there had been issues with the bank account of the Youth Centre. The PC had been holding an amount of money should this be resolved but had not heard that it had. Social media, there is an awful lot of people sitting awaiting authority to join and previous information not now being posted, road closures. Does not appear to be kept as up to date as it was.
PW- parking issues at Station Road/Skeldyke Road junction. Complaint from resident regarding grass cutting which had been passed to clerk. Had notice a reduction in fly posting on LCC assets, strangely though there are the odd estate agent signs put up pointing towards properties. More an administrative issue. Do not appear to have received finance meeting minutes. Clerk said these would normally be issued for the next finance meeting. Cllr P Watson asked if in view of his previous request regarding funding if these could be issued.
Speeding traffic, encourages if people witness this, report it to either 101 or the Police.
CSW, Cllr P Watson is the only remaining member of the original group and would recommend Councillors attend training together with any residents that would be interested.
Correspondence Received
Town Hall Management Committee – suggestions to have a circular bench around the tree in the Rec.
Complaint against Malc Firth for broken fence in Sentence Crescent.
Another complaint on Hardwick Estate for grass. Clerk communicating with them with the idea of taking over their areas and them paying.
Update from Outer Dowsing, consent order application had been accepted.
Maggie Welberry from PCC complaining of church footpath – to organise a meeting with PCC.
Tesco support to Carl Sharpe’s group at Tesco – as per Cllr Bowen comments in meeting
Two separate letters from Town Hall Committee members asking for Town Hall car park signage to be returned as it was.
LCC survey fir review of the Traffic Management Policy.
Complaint from Station Road resident regarding speeding.
Thank you letter from S Rodgers for the planter in Hubberts Bridge.
High Street regeneration scheme – looking for original document as businesses are contact PC for confirmation of funding.
A Haw, Boston CCTV advising Wi-Fi not working.
Resident asking why we declined to sell the Orthodox Church- answered.
UKSPF – grant application successful for tower of £8,000
Invitation to Parish Council Engagement Session – 2nd July
National Grid- Easter Green Link 3 and Eastern Green Link 4, public consultation from 23rd April to 17th June.
Letter of apology from Kirton News over Donington minutes.
First Aid training which includes defib training. Cllr O’Connor had asked if she could attend a training session on Tuesday. Chair felt there was not sufficient time for this to be discussed and to take forward to another meeting.
Kirton News was showing Donington minutes instead of Kirton. Editor had apologised to Council and admitted it was their error. Cllr S Watson advising that she had not heard of the apology.
Date Of next Meeting
Tuesday 4th June 2024.
The Registers
Baptisms - We welcome them all into the family of the church:
Sunday 7th April - Elle Florence Magee
Weddings - We offer our congratulations to:
None this month
Funerals - May they all rest in peace:
None this month