©Kirton News 2025

The Editors Letter

Hello to you all! For those eagle-eyed readers, you may have noticed that Kirt the Mouse was not featured in the last edition and for that we apologise. He took it upon himself to hibernate but is definitely back and hiding somewhere in this issue!

In our June issue we featured some photographs from the lighting of the Beacon at Kirton Holme to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Apologies to Chris Crisford who took the photos and was not credited.

I am very pleased to include the following press release in this issue:

The Old King’s Head Bistro & Bar
Set to Open in Kirton

A beloved local landmark is entering an exciting new chapter as The Old King’s Head Bistro & Bar prepares to open its doors under the new tenancy of Mark and Katharine Nundy, proud Kirton residents with a deep commitment to their community.

Slated for a grand opening toward the end of July, The Old King’s Head will relaunch as a vibrant farm-to-fork bistro, restaurant and bar, as well as a Mediterranean-inspired outdoor area, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from Lincolnshire farmers, growers, and producers. At the heart of the Nundys’ vision is a core value: supporting the local community through honest food and genuine hospitality.

Guests can look forward to a welcoming space serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, alongside a thoughtfully curated bar featuring quality local draught beers and a bespoke wine selection tailored to complement the bistro’s ever-evolving menu.

“We’re thrilled to breathe new life into this historic building,” said Katharine Nundy. “Our goal is to create a warm and inclusive space where people can gather, relax, and enjoy exceptional local food and drink.”

Further details on the official opening date and reservation information will be shared in the coming weeks.

Finally some good news to share in what has been a very uncertain time since its closure.

If you have anything you’d like to say, someone you’d like to thank, a poem or a puzzle you’d like to share, get in touch! I’m always contactable at Editor@kirtonnews.co.uk.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

Rachael.

Hello from Jax’s Ark

Greetings, humans! We are Fireball, Fifi, Fudge, and Fetty—a lively family of ferrets with playful hearts and curious spirits. Our days here at Jax’s Ark are nothing short of luxurious, where every moment feels like a five-star escape. From exploring a spacious aviary loaded with engaging toys to revelling in our absolute favourites—a grand ball pit and a winding slide—we truly live the high life. Jax, our devoted caretaker, not only ensures we’re well-fed but also adds an element of surprise by hiding treats in the ball pit for that extra spark of fun. Our affectionate interactions with her are our absolute delight; nothing beats a good tummy tickle or a playful romp around the safety porch, where our antics earn us the endearing title of “cheeky whatsits.”

Adventures and Antics This visit, we discovered a whole new playground in the water fountain. The cool splash of water was irresistible! Even when Jax presented us with a tray of water, our mischievous nature got the best of us, and yes—we tipped the fountain over! And who could forget the time when little Fetty dozed off in the big tube, giving Jax a mini heart attack as she scrambled to find her? Every day here is an adventure, and every mishap is just another story waiting to be told.

A Family with a Legacy Scientifically speaking, we originate from the illustrious weasel family, mingling our lineage with polecats, stoats, badgers, and otters. While history tells of our species chasing rabbits and rodents in the wild, Jax’s common sense—and her vast expertise with animals—ensures that our innate instincts never bring us face-to-face with our natural prey. Jax is no ordinary caretaker; her life is a mosaic of animal adventures. With a CV that includes numerous animal qualifications, authored scientific papers, and even a groundbreaking dissertation on captive Pine Martins conducted in the New Forest of Hampshire, she embodies a remarkable blend of passion and precision. Rumor has it that she even celebrated her love by getting married in a zoo—a testament to her audacious spirit and lifelong bond with the animal kingdom.

Peace of Mind for Our Loved Ones While our mum basks in a week-long holiday under golden skies, she rests easy knowing that Jax is here to look after us. Through regular photos and updates, she keeps our mum in the loop about our playful escapades, ensuring that even from afar, our hearts remain connected. Here at Jax’s Ark, every day is an enchanting blend of care, fun, and a touch of wild mischief—a perfect recipe for a happy little ferret family.

For inquiries or reservations, please send a message, contact Jax directly, or visit her Facebook page – Jaxs Ark Small Animal Home Boarding. Follow her page to always have access to her contact information.

Moaning Again

I am nearing the milestone age of 80. When I was perhaps 6 or 7 my mother would get me to sit by her while she sewed. No doubt it was partly to keep an eye on me as I had been known to poke knitting needles into the unprotected 2 pin sockets of our 1920s house with predictable results.

I watched as she threaded the machine and went to work. Sometimes I would turn the handle of the Singer machine while she eased the fabric under the foot. Sometimes I would do the easing.

That machine is nearing its 100th birthday. It has been cleaned and oiled but never a penny has been spent on repair. There are scrapes on the black enamel and on the gold transfers caused by a wedding ring, scissors, pin heads and such. It was well used. My mother made her own and my sisters’ dresses in the 1940s and 50s pinning the paper patterns to the fabric she spread on the carpet.

I have that machine now. I use it to make curtains and cushion covers. I see no reason why it shouldn’t last another 100 years with a modicum of TLC. It belongs to an age when things were made to last. People valued reliability. It was an expensive investment for a lifetime of use.

I also have a cordless vacuum cleaner of a well-known make. It is perhaps 5 years old. It is lightweight and there is no cable to get round your ankles as you clean the stairs. It is good but lacks the suck of a traditional plug-in machine. Recently it failed completely. I discovered the fault. The plastic trigger had split from frequent use. It turns out to be a very common problem, so much so there are at least 6 videos on-line explaining how to replace the faulty part and many folk advertising replacement triggers. The split plastic part looks to have all the quality of a Christmas Cracker toy. It is now replaced. The machine works as well as ever but it was not a quick job. It was made more difficult by the maker obstructing access with a glue coating, a late modification to the machine. And how long will the replacement part last?

I’m not saying the glue coating was deliberately applied to encourage folk to sling the machine out and buy another but I could be persuaded to believe this was the motive. We live in an age where unless we regularly spend (20% VAT) there will be even fewer policemen, doctors, teachers, prison staff, border control officers and so on although I guess numbers of administrators, advisors, consultants and researchers will, if anything, increase.

Likely it is just my age but I can’t help feeling we are all trundling toward the cliff edge as we click our purchases from the comfy chair.

David Culley

Kirton Church Fund

The winning numbers for the May draw will be printed in the July/August magazine.

The June draw takes place on Sunday 29th and the winning numbers will be printed in the September magazine.

First prize winner this month has won several times before. Second prize winner has now had their first win. Congratulations to you both.!

The prize fund each month is 1/4 of the money taken each month. The rest of the money goes to Kirton Church. I have just handed over a cheque for just over £846, the money raised so far this year! Well done everyone and thank you for your support.

The money is used to maintain our beautiful church and with work needing to be done to replace three of the roofs we need to raise as much as we can. We are applying for grants to help with the cost of the work needed, however we will need to show that we are raising money ourselves before we can get grants. In 2012 were were expected to raise £60,000. Now thirteen years later we will be expected to raise a larger sum as our share towards the costs. Can you help?

Taking part in Kirton Church Fund is one way to help the church raise the money needed. There is plenty of room for more members and a very good chance of winning in the monthly draws.

The more people that join the higher the prize fund and the more money we raise for the church.

Could you win our monthly draw? You won’t know unless you join in. Remember you have to be in it to win it! Anyone over 18 may take part. Do come and join us.

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.

Registration forms are available from Fay, (01205 723529), or call in Kirton Church. Paula’s Gifts on Station Road also has registration forms.

If you would like more information about Kirton Church Fund please give Fay a ring on 01205 723529 or email fayngeoff@gmail.com

April 2025 Winners

1st PRIZE - £49.69 - TICKET NUMBER: 98
2nd PRIZE - £16.56 - TICKET NUMBER:107

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.

Meet The Locals

This month, we're featuring Kyle Sellars as our Meet the Local and he has been nominated by his Mum, Naomi Atkin!

Kyle has been a member of the local community for the last 28 and a half years, since being born.

In his younger years, he attended Frampton playgroup, Kirton nursery, Kirton Primary School and Middlecott secondary school. 

As a child, he had always dreamed of being a fireman, following in his great grandfather's footsteps. He was unable to apply to join the Fire brigade until he was 18 years old and so instead of changing his dreams, he decided to gain a trade whilst waiting.

After working hard as an apprentice and completing his college course, he qualified as a plumber/gas engineer after leaving school. He gained experience and furthered his knowledge by working with other local plumbing companies. 

During these years, he never forgot his dream. He was adamant that he would achieve it, and in 2016, he completed his training to become a retained firefighter in Kirton, so that he would be able to continue with both career paths. This is something that he also continues to do, to date, being on call when he is not at work.

In 2020, he decided to bite the bullet and start his own plumbing and heating business in the village. Just as he was transitioning from employed to self-employed, Covid 19 struck.

To say there was some uncertainty around how he would be able to make a new business work at that time, would be an understatement. 

With his unfounded determination, his passion for his career and his selfless, caring nature to make sure that people would get the best service from him, he has grown his business from scratch.

He is known for taking pride in his work, completing everything to the highest standard and offering unbiased solutions to the problems he is called to.

Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting Kyle, either through work or socially, will tell you what a gem of a gentleman he is.

Polite, caring, kind and genuine, are just a few of the words people have used to describe him to me. 

He now has a beautiful wife and son of his own but continues to work hard in and for the village. Not only for his own financial gain through his business, but for the community working with the rest of the fabulous firefighters, keeping everyone safe.

You may have even met him dressed as an elf guiding Santa around Kirton at Christmas, or whilst having your car washed to raise money for charity.

Yes, I am a proud mum, and I believe I have every right to be.

Blue Elephant Yoga

Each month, local yoga teacher Mark shares thoughtful reflections drawn from his weekly classes in and around our villages - blending seasonal inspiration, gentle philosophy, and a touch of poetry. As summer begins to stir, we wonder here at Kirton News… what reflections will he bring us this time?

June is a month that seems to hum with life. Gardens are blooming, the days stretch long and golden, and there's a certain lightness in the air that invites us to pause and soak it all in. Yet, even with all this natural beauty around us, it’s easy to rush through it - busy with plans, commitments, and ticking off endless to-do lists.

This summer, what if we made a conscious choice to slow down and notice the little things?

Gratitude doesn’t have to be reserved for grand moments or milestones. In fact, it’s often the smallest things - the warm sun on your skin, the sound of birds in the morning, the scent of freshly cut grass - that can bring the deepest sense of contentment, if we allow ourselves the time to notice.

Practising gratitude isn’t complicated. You don’t need a journal (though you might enjoy keeping one!) or a formal routine. It can be as simple as taking a few moments each day to pause and reflect:

What small thing today made you smile? What simple moment lifted your heart?

Perhaps it was the bright splash of colour from a wildflower at the side of the road. Or how about hearing laughter from an open window, or catching the soft scent of honeysuckle on an evening walk.

When we begin to look for these tiny moments, we find that they are everywhere - little gifts tucked into our day, waiting to be noticed.

Gratitude gently shifts our attention away from what feels lacking or stressful, and towards what is abundant and good. It doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect. It just means balancing out the harder parts of life with a steady acknowledgement of its quiet blessings.

So as summer unfolds, why not try this simple practice:

At the end of each day, pause and remember 3 small things that brought you joy.

Say them aloud, jot them down, or simply hold them for a moment in your mind before you drift off to sleep.

Over time, you might find that life feels a little lighter. That the world seems a little kinder. And that you are, quietly and steadily, flowing with the season - open-hearted, and alive to the everyday wonders all around you.

Wishing you a joyful and gratitude-filled summer.

Letters to the Editor

The Old Kings Head
A Letter To Lincolnshire Heritage

It was really sad and disappointing to learn a while ago that the Old Kings Head was closing its doors. When it opened it was such a welcome boon for the village and so desperately needed. Everyone using it was so impressed with the sympathetic restoration, decor, fitments and fittings. I think most people in the village are aware of the huge costs that were involved in the work. However, although some might question those costs, I think most people would agree that it is of great historical value to Kirton, as well as providing a much needed service.

I expect you will tell us why it closed at the meeting, but at a guess, it has not been financially viable of late.

When it opened, all seemed well, although the complaints about the so-called Lincolnshire sausages went unheeded. We have so many good butchers in and around Boston, most of whom deliver to the village (who, I’m sure, would have been only too pleased to supply local sausages on a regular basis). I have spoken to so many people in the village and beyond, who, of late, were disappointed in the service and the quality of the food. Especially when the prices were really more appropriate for high end dining. The scones were hard and the cake was dry. I had fish pie which I couldn’t eat. In most places meat pie would include accompaniments. Also the coffee was very often lukewarm. It’s such a shame it fell short of expectations. On the plus side it’s a lovely place to meet and chat. The staff were always friendly and welcoming.

Above all, Kirton needs the Old Kings Head. There is nowhere else nearby to get breakfast, a coffee or a cup of tea and to meet up with friends and family in excellent surroundings.

If there is any way it can be opened again; and with good management, be made to be financially viable, I am sure local people will continue to support it.

Paula Davies.

Message from Father Paul

I would like to start my report this month, by thanking Fay for all the work she has done as church warden over the past five years and especially during the interregnum. Although she has finished her term of office, she will continue to support the church as we move forward in the community. We wish our two new church wardens every success in their new roles. We have lots of community events happening over the next few months.

Kirton Singers started in May 13th and meets every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm, just singing for wellbeing. It is a free event with refreshments.

In, July 5th we are hosting an afternoon tea event tickets at £9.00 for an adult and £5.30 for U16 – Afternoon tea is 4 finger sandwiches, with 3 cakes and a scone with jam and cream.

September 4th (Thursday) we will be having a bat talk and walk from 7pm at the church with refreshments. Please book a place at office@pilgrimgroup.uk

September 6th we will be hosting an old fashioned summer fair, stall holders wanted – Tables are £10 (funds towards helping to keep the building open and other community events) there will be old fashioned games and stalls, a fire engine and Ice cream van. Don’t forget to pop the date in your diary.

All enquires through - Frpaul@pilgrimgroup.uk or to book tickets or a stall at office@pilgrimgroup.uk

My last plea is to ask if there are any volunteers among you who would be able to give an hour our two to help keep the church open more, volunteer for events, cleaning, maintenance, serving at the coffee shop. If any of you are able to help please use the contact information.

We are launching – our Why club for teens and young adults who wish to explore faith and a sense of belonging. A group that explores faith, prayer and a sense of belonging. Open to all from aged 14 upwards. Please register you interest with Fr Paul and the Why team at frpaul@pilgrimgroup.uk

A Pentecost message

Have you ever asked yourself why bishop wear a funny pointed hat? The answer to this question can be found this month as the Church celebrates the feast day of Pentecost on the 8th June. The feast of Pentecost celebrates the time when the Holy Spirit came down and rested on the disciples heads as we read in Acts 2:1-11. This passage describes how there was a sound of rushing wind and how the Holy Spirit came down in tongues of fire to rest upon the heads of the disciples. This is where the bishop hat or Mitre to give its correct name get it shape from, the points represent those tongues of fire.

This does not just tell us of the day of Pentecost, but also how the authority given by the Holy Spirit to the disciples has in turn been handed down to us though every generation from the disciple, that the same Holy Spirit that rested upon them also rest upon our bishops, priest and all the baptised (christened). This day of Pentecost also see the start of God’s Church here on earth as the disciples go out into the market place to proclaim the good news. The important part here is that when they spoke everyone who was willing to listen could hear them in the own language, in their own tongue. This tells us that God is call all people to him not just a chosen people but all people. Therefore, God’s Church, in which ever form it takes, is open for everyone, it is open to you, all you need to do in turn is to listen to him.

Kirton Holme honour the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom

Kirton Holme residents and people from the surrounding communities came together to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of VE Day. It was a warm atmosphere, the beacon was lit and we stood and sang together in quiet contemplation.

Alzheimer’s Society’s
Forget Me Not Appeal

The local community across Kirton and Boston can show solidarity for everyone living with dementia by wearing an Alzheimer’s Society Forget Me Not badge in June.

Alzheimer’s Society’s Forget Me Not Appeal will help to fund life-changing dementia support for people living with dementia today, and research that could mean a brighter future for people who may face it tomorrow.

Dementia affects all of us and one in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia in their lifetime. In Boston, including Kirton, there are more than 1,100 people living with dementia. That’s why every Forget Me Not badge has its own meaning.

Yours might be about your mum, dad or a dear friend.

Alzheimer’s Society patron Dame Judi Dench is supporting the campaign, she said:

Every Forget Me Not badge has its own meaning. Having seen the impact of dementia first-hand, I’m sadly all too aware of how cruel and unforgiving this condition can be. Not only for the person affected, but their loved ones too. This June, join Alzheimer’s Society and thousands of people across the country and wear your Forget Me Not – to support people living with dementia today and those who may face it tomorrow.”  

Donation: £10 suggested donation. For every £50 raised could help families to access support from an Alzheimer’s Society expert Dementia Adviser to help them navigate their diagnosis.

Where to get yours: alzheimers.org.uk/ForgetMeNotAppeal

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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
- March 2025

Present: Councillors

Cllr D Jarvis, Chair, Cllr A Bowen, Vice Chair, Cllr C. Astill, Cllr M Elston, Cllr T Hartfil-Allgood, Cllr P Head, Cllr L O’Connor, Cllr Pryke, Cllr C Rylott and Cllr M Sohail. Also Present: Clerk D. Fairweather. Borough Cllr Middleton. County Cllrs Austin & Brookes and 8 members of the public

Public Forum

Stuart Evans, candidate for Lincolnshire County Councillor, to introduce himself.

Resident giving thoughts regarding the closure of Dame Sarah Swift Park. Believes that closure would be the wrong decision and there must be something for the children. Kirton Parish Council is failing in its duty to offer such services. The original park was self-funded, and it should be renewed.

Reports From Elected
County Councillors & Borough Councillors

MB – The request for a reduction of the 40mph speed limit to 30mph on London Road has been turned down as when assessed, it does not meet the criteria laid down in Lincolnshire County Councils Speed Limit Policy.

Willington Road reduction to 40mph. The signage is now all in place.

Kirton End reduction to 30mph. Was supposed to be completed at the same time as Willington Road. An e mail has been sent to the contractors requesting a completion date.

All other matters are the same as previously reported.

Petition handed in for zebra crossings and these have been forwarded on for assessment. Clerk to forward to Highways.

Mike, having enjoyed working with Kirton over the years wished Kirton Parish Council well for the future, this is his last meeting as will not be standing for elections this year. Chair wish him well and thanks for his work during his time spent at Kirton.

AA – Concerns being raised by a resident regarding footway along Boston Road, towards Middlecott Close. There are two places in poor condition due to tree roots. Has been reported. Alison is also not standing for elections on 1st May and the Chair wished her good luck and thanked her also for time given to Kirton.

CR – Loose of manhole cover at Frampton Lane in Hubberts Bridge. Residents have reported to Anglian Water with no success. Cllr Rylott had visited site and reported to Fix My Street.

Kirton Holme residents, Little Side Road bridge was damaged by Black Sluice. No weight restrictions on road. Bridge is to be repaired, residents advised.

RP – two residents complaining of speeding and loud vehicles on London Road.

Resident in Drainside South is building a wall on land not owned and leaving rubbish in dyke. Cllr Pryke has reported.

Residents also in Drainside South are still concerned that County Council will not take responsibility for the dumping of waste last year and has not been cleared. His now being reported to the complaint department Cllr Pryke to report once again.

Continual complaint of resident on corner of Church Lane having moved road signed to drop pavement for access to his property.

Request from resident for an allotment. Council has investigated this previously but no land available. Unknown number of residents wanting allotments.

Out Dowsing updates from recent meeting. Number of complainants affected, reducing significantly. Still amounts of land in dispute. Substation to be built on land at Weston Marsh. Likely to be an increase of projects being fed to site. Compensation schemes will be available but not for another two years.

Old Kings Head – advert advising food is again being served. Unsure if this correct.

New Social Housing opening day behind Methodist Chapel. Some of properties are almost 100% energy efficient.

New Grant available for rewilding areas close to SSIs.

LCC has been severely criticised for not promoted the coastal path.

Credit received for COVID event; will it be an annual event?

To Receive Apologies
For Absence

Received and accepted from Cllr Baillie

To Co-Opt New Councillor

Proposed Cllr Astill, seconded Cllr Elston, Tom Hartfil-Allgood co-opted to Council. Declaration of Acceptance of Office Signed.

To Receive Declarations Of Interest Under The Councils Code Of Conduct Relating To Business On The Agenda

Cllr Rylott, being planning officer.

To Approve Notes Of Previous Meeting Held
On 11th March 2025

Proposed Cllr Bowen seconded Cllr Head that these be accepted as a true copy to be called minutes. Unanimous.

To Receive Clerk’s Updates From Minutes And Items
Not On Agenda

Plaque – additional payment for early delivery, refund received.

Hemington Way – still awaiting a site visit with Highways.

Maintenance Payment – still invoice outstanding for broken fence on Lighton Avenue. Contractor to visit site once again.

Skate Park – gentleman demolishing had been in hospital and would be out of action for a couple of weeks.

Clerks’ appraisal hadn’t taken place as HR committee felt they required training to carry out appraisal satisfactorily. Cllr Bowen felt this perhaps should have been sorted before the day of the appraisal. Cllr Astill responded there had been quite a few errors and having spoken with LALC realised that there had been incorrect advice given. Advised there was training. Clerk had been advised of a remote training session available and would forward link to HR committee.

To Receive Events Updates

MS Picnic in The Park -Town Hall are letting PC use Hall free of charge. Face painting booked. Awaiting date to meet with bouncy castle company.

FH – consulted with Royal British Legion who will attend and read proclamation. Poster available for FB. Cllr Elston advised BBC are providing flags for the occasion.

CA advised two Town Hall Committee members are putting an afternoon tea with the brass band playing in the evening.

Finance

a) To Approve Payment of Accounts as per schedule – proposed Cllr Astill seconded Cllr Rylott

b) To Approve Donation to Town Hall for additional CCTV. Following an incident reported last month a quotation for to new CCTVs at the door of the Town Hall had been sourced. £595.79. Cllr Astill had also received quote for an additional CCTV on tower to link with those in the village. Not for discussion as not an Agenda item.

After much discussion Cllr Astill advised no donation requested now.

c) To Approve Governance & Accountability Statement

d) To Approve Annual Report of Accounts Clerk not happy to complete as awaiting

Planning

To Discuss Applications Received Since Last Meeting

B/25/0056 proposed wooden summerhouse, Culham House, Boston Road.

B/25/0136 single garage extension to attached outbuilding, Hallweir Cottage, Skeldyke Road, Kirton.

B/25/0112 Change of use from mixed use of residential and bed and breakfast.

Members Reports

DJ – BBC – feels perhaps local surrounding Parish Councils should get together to take wants and needs. Whilst all agreed, within two years, there will not be a Borough Council and perhaps not worth taking further at this stage.

ME – planters- use perennials in village planters, therefore saving funds annually.

Couple of people happy to join the church wall renovation group from the Church.

THA – DSS – felt appalled, gates hanging off. Ramps covered in graffiti; equipment damaged. Clerk to give Cllr Hartfill-Allgood an update of the history of the park.

Allotments – Vice Chairman of Wyberton West Allotment Association. His team would be willing to assist Kirton if land was found.

PH – Best Kept Garden competition. Mrs Leverington would be happy to chair a group to help organise our event.

Youths kicking ball at wall memorial. Tried to be moved on but given abuse.

Mentioned previously Youth Council. Is there chance of using some of the youths to start one? Clerk to look into Youth Council opportunities.

LO – attended Women Against Matrimonial Abuse, has poster for FB

RP – Kirton/Frampton ward has the lowest level sign-ups for flood warnings. Hopefully will be brought up again at next meeting.

There is to be a replacement UKSP fund but no further details available yet.

New Mayoral Combined Authority have announced anything unspent of UKSP in Boston by the Autumn will be clawed back by them. Cllr Pryke has asked if there is any money not yet spent.

Is there to be planters in, are benches wrong and what has happened to gates. Planters need to be put in place and filled at the same time. Benches will not be changed. Gates at present are in storage as the Royal British Legion were favourable for them not to be put back.

BBC Leader had spoken with Cllr Pryke advising they are extremely annoyed over the streetlight situation.

Asked recently if goals posts are to be erected at the Town Hall or elsewhere? Contact is not in country at the moment. Cllr Head to an update as and when known.

CR – Disagreed with BBC Leader’s comments regarding streetlights. No discussions on grass cutting tenders. Clerk awaiting a couple of prices and hopeful to have a separate cemetery keeper. Too many plants last year ordered from local nursery. None ordered, will buy on a ‘as and when required’ basis. Winter planting also late.

To Receive Correspondence

Parish Liaison Notes – next meeting 26th June. Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan – have your say.

Health & Safety Risk Assessment Course £78. Clerk would like to attend regarding future events. Doesn’t form part of ATS.

NHS – new stickers for defib cabinets to aid returning if used.

Eden Project – Annual big lunch is on 7/8th June.

BBC new software for viewing and reporting on planning applications.

Complaint of unkempt state of Garden of Rest. Many additional artefacts now being placed. Agreed clerk to forward cemetery regulations to funeral directors before funerals in order that residents are aware of restrictions.

LALC – Model Standing Orders Updates – revised to be adopted. Clerk to distribute when received, advising Councillors of changes.

. gov.uk email addresses being suggested again, does Kirton wish to investigate the cost? More secure and emails belong to Council not Councillor when they leave Council.

Kirton Community
Group Hub

Clerk has the opportunity of two ladies attending the coffee mornings hub to do an art session. Small items that can be made and taken away within two hours. Only cost would be materials, clerk has put in grant application for some funding. All agreed acceptable to have them attend.

Cllr Head and Clerk had discussions regarding a bingo for fund raising with a known ‘caller’. Licence not required if cash prizes and are not above a specific amount.

Clerk had previously purchased books etc so if in agreement any helpers would be appreciated.

Date of next meeting

Tuesday 6th May 2025

The Registers

Baptisms - We welcome them all into the  family  of the church:

13th October - Emilija Vitunskaite

Weddings - We offer our congratulations to:

None this month

Funerals - May they all rest in peace:

10th October - Alexandra Watts
25th October - Brian Roberts