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©Kirton News 2024
We have another bumper 36 pager for you this month! Apologies to our distributors for the extra weight but this is unprecedented and I’m sure won’t happen every month! I must say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to our May edition.
I chose to focus on Kirton Youth Centre this month. An asset to our village, I’m sure you’ll all agree. Our Scout groups, Guides, Army Cadets, Kirton Kids Club and more, all use the Youth Centre and have for many years. We hear from Alex, Manager of Kirton Kids Club on Page 16 and we hope they will continue to feature in our future editions!
Last month I spoke about Kirton Church and their small committee being in desperate need of funding and help. Fay Houltby talks more about this on Page 7 in her monthly report. You can either join the Church Fund where you could win a cash prize every month or email Fay at fayngeoff@gmail.com if you can spare some time to help. The Big Easter Egg Hunt, run by the fundraising committee was a great success and Paula Davies emailed me to thank all those who took part - ‘Thank you to all who entered the Big Easter Egg Hunt throughout Holy Week, in the run up to Easter. 31 children entered the fun! We had a draw in church on the Tuesday after Easter, to pick the prizes. First prize was a Book token from Waterstones and 2nd and 3rd prizes were Easter Eggs. The Church was open for a few hours each day for the hunt. We would love to be able to open the church more often but we have few volunteers these days and obviously are unable to leave the church open and unoccupied for security reasons. We hope you had fun and all being well, will do it again next year! Thank you again to Paula’s Gifts and the Scout Shop for giving out the forms, for the donations made and all the businesses in Kirton for displaying the Easter Egg shapes in their windows. It isn’t a big fundraiser, but all money raised goes towards the Church Roof Fund.’ Paula Davies - Fundraising Committee.
RK Waste feature in our Meet the Locals this month! Take a look on Page 5. Meet the Locals is a great opportunity for some free publicity/advertising. If you wish to take part please email me at the address below. My thanks go to Roy Mortimer who has written a very interesting article discussing his search for descendants of the Dickinson family. Please have a read through and if you can provide any information at all, email me at the address below.
I’m always contactable at Editor@kirtonnews.co.uk. I’d love to see some suggestions for our 2024 issues. We’d be more than happy to include you!
Meet The Locals
This month we’re talking to RK Waste, who cover all aspects of domestic and commercial business waste.
RK Waste offer many different services inlcuding:
Builders & Construction Clearance
End Of Tenancy Clearance
Garage Clearance
Garden Clearance
House Clearance
Office Clearance Scrap Metal
Shop Clearances and much more!
Cheaper Than A Skip - You Name It, We Will Clear It!
We Recycle 95% Of the Waste We Collect & Are Fully Licensed And Insured
Garden Maintenance Services include:
Grass Cutting
Hedge Trimming
One - Offs
Over Grown Gardens
Regular Maintenance
Weeding and more!
We Also Sell Seasoned Logs By The Bag
Our email address is: rkwastemanagement@yahoo.com
Our contact number is: 07709 086751
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The Arnhem Umbrella:
Major Digby Tatham Warter DSO
One might think that being surrounded by the German SS is no laughing matter, but don’t tell that to British Major Digby Tatham-Warter. This cool Airborne officer used classic British grit and wit to fight off the German onslaught against overwhelming odds and encourage the fighting spirit of his paratroopers until they had fired their last round during the failed attempt to hold the bridge at Arnhem during Operation Market Garden.
Perhaps, what is more remarkable, is that this man did so with a rolled up umbrella in hand. In fact, by some accounts he actually disabled a German tank by thrusting the umbrella through the observations slit and wounding the driver. By another account, when the battalion chaplain was pinned down by mortar fire, he walked over and opened the umbrella as if to give him cover from the destruction and escorted him through the enemy fire.
His is a story almost too inexplicable to be true, but fact is indeed stranger than fiction when it comes to Major Digby Tatham-Warter.
Digby was born in 1917 to a veteran of the first World War. By 1937, he was embarking on his own military career after graduating from Sandhurst Military College. It was initially his desire to join the Indian Army to pursue his passions of tiger hunting, pig-sticking, and all the general exploits of a wild Safari one might enjoy.
He joined the 2nd Battalion Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry in 1938 in India where he would miss out on the bulk of the fighting during the early years of the war.
However, he subsequently transferred to the Parachute Regiment and was made the commander of A Company of the 2nd Parachute Brigade just as they were wrapping up their fighting in Italy.
Operation Market Garden was Major Digby Tatham Warter’s first action. As the OC of ‘A’ Company, 2 Para, he led the advance to the Arnhem Road bridge, brushing aside German resistance to reach the objective. Over the course of the next four days, Digby - a well-known eccentric - enhanced his reputation further by displaying solid leadership and a fearlessness that left everyone who witnesses it in awe. Picking up an umbrella and bowler hat from one of the houses, Tatham Warter strolled around the perimeter oblivious to shot and shell, instilling confidence in his men and inspiring them to battle on in the face of overwhelming odds. Wounded and captured at the battle’s end, Digby escaped and linked up with the Dutch Resistance. For weeks he strutted around the area disguised as a deaf and speechless Dutchman to fool the Germans. He collected over hundred paratroopers (‘evaders’) and forged a plan to lead them through enemy lines to safety. His post-war years are just as exciting. This is his story.
“The Arnhem Umbrella: Major Digby Tatham Warter DSO” is a superb book that delves into the life of a remarkable man. Major Digby Tatham Warter, an Englishman gentleman personified, emerges as a fascinating character—eccentric, charming, and as brave as a lion in combat. The book provides a gripping account of the fighting at the Bridge at Arnhem, a pivotal moment during Operation Market Garden. But it’s not just about battles; it’s also a captivating exploration of a man who defied convention and yet was deeply loved by his soldiers as a true leader of men.
The narrative draws from extensive research and includes over 200 images, many of which come from Digby’s personal photo albums. Additionally, the author interviewed those who served with Digby, adding valuable insights to this compelling biography. Whether you’re interested in military history or simply appreciate tales of extraordinary individuals, “The Arnhem Umbrella” is thoroughly recommended.
Major Digby Tatham Warter’s courage and unconventional spirit shine through these pages, making this book a tribute to a remarkable hero.
Kirton Church Fund
The April draw winning numbers will be printed in the June magazine. The May draw takes place on Sunday 29th and the winning numbers will be printed in the July magazine.
Our March winners, both numbers have had previous wins and both have been members of the Kirton Church Fund since the beginning in June 2012. Congratulations to you both and thank you for your continued support.
As I often do while writing my reports I have a look back at my some of my reports.
Looking back at my report for May last year I see that I said regarding the re-leading needed on the roofs of the chancel and side aisles, and referring to my 2019 report “Unfortunately we are still in this position and we urgently need to raise money to do this.£ 300,000! As you may have read elsewhere in this magazine the church “may become unsafe and be forced to close.” That was last May. Sadly there was no response to that letter in the magazine from the village at all to our request for help. We need volunteers as well as raising money.
Last month in my report I said “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.” Also in last month’s magazine Rachael made reference to our plea for help in her Editors letter. Again we have, as I write, had no response. We do need help to keep our beautiful Church.
Kirton Church Fund is one way we raise money for the church. The prize fund each month is 1/4 of the money taken each month. 3/4 of the money collected each month goes to the Kirton Church. The prize fund each month is the remaining 1/4 of the money taken. The more people that join the higher the prize fund and the more money we raise for the church.
You could help us save our church and be in with a chance of winning the monthly draw at the same time. Why not come and join us? We have plenty of room for more members and there is a very good chance of winning. Anyone over 18 may take part. Registration forms are available from Fay, (01205 723529), or from 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
May 2024 Winners
1st PRIZE - £47.81 - TICKET NUMBER: 1
2nd PRIZE - £15.94 -
TICKET NUMBER: 9
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.
Thoughts brought home from aboard
A short story sent to us by Bill Crewdson - Part 3
As you see, we have our own methods of dealing with traitors. Now then, I wish to extract from you certain information, I trust you are going to co-operate, although not right at this moment for my services are urgently needed elsewhere, but don't worry I'll be back in the morning to continue our discussion. In the meantime - Klaus and Herman will assist you with your deliberations.'
Another order was given and the two guards began to beat Michael systematically, punches rained down on him incessantly not enough to disable him but enough to encourage him to talk when called upon. Throughout the beating Michael was able to observe Helga through swollen eyes, was he mistaken, or did he detect a look of revulsion in her eyes, surely she must have witnessed or even done worse things in her life.
After this Wietz and the woman departed leaving the two guards playing cards in the next room. The night wore on and the room got very cold, sleep was impossible, and Michael began to ponder about the outcome of the following morning. He knew he would talk, they all did eventually, and then he would be killed, he now considered this possibility coldly and dispassionately, he put it down to the exigencies of the service, thank God he had no wife and family!
Breaking into his thoughts came the explosive sound of gunfire coming from the next room. The door to Michaels make shift prison flew open and, on the threshold was Helga, her stunning figure outlined in silhouette against the light from the other room.
'Quick!' she cried as she cut through his bonds with a hunting knife. 'We've got to get out of here!'
Michael had difficulty in walking due to the cold and the beating he had received. Helga helped him outside, past the two dead guards, and into a car that had been left with the engine running.
When Michael was settled and they were under way, he asked "Why are you doing this?"
Helga replied 'The man they killed was a childhood friend: We were very close. I am sickened by the things I have seen, and have been looking for a way to get out. When they killed Carl that was the last straw.'
Relying on forged papers they were able to make it across th border into West Berlin where Michael was able to contact London. He told his masters of Helgas wish to defect and arrangements were made for transportation to the UK.
Concluded next month.
Roy’s Hunt for Owners of Family
Photo Album
Being a born and bred Kirtonian (well, except for my first 5 days in Wyberton West Hospital) and growing up in a small village environment, we all got to know each other and people I did not know would soon tell you “I know you and I am going to tell your mum and dad if you do not stop messing about”. Neighbours went out and did not bother to lock their doors and we would leave our bikes laying around for days on end but no one even thought of taking them, such were the good old days.
Living next to the railway line sparked my interest in railways which was extended when I went to senior school. There was a model railway club and a teacher who had a great interest in the real thing, so much so he organised trips to various locomotive facilities all over the country.
Leaving school my interest waned when the steam locos disappeared (the diesels held no fascination for me). Marriage followed and one day on a trip out we saw a sign advertising an antiques fair. “Let’s stop and have a look“ the other half said. Whilst walking round I found a stall selling postcards so stopped to look and found one of Kirton station. The seller said “there may be more in my Lincolnshire section”. Looking through I found 4 more views of the village.
Interest peaked and after showing those to my parents I found out much more about each card. Visits to any local antiques fairs followed to try to find more views of the village. At one of these a dealer told me of a fair in Nottingham where there would be dealers from all over the country. After this visit the bug was really taking over and visits to Peterborough/Norwich/Lincoln/Newark soon swelled the collection.
Then along came EBAY and many more cards joined the collection until one evening I found someone selling an album of the village.
Nervous days followed until finally the book was mine. I messaged the seller to see if he had any more but he did not. He told me that he had purchased it from a market stall in Abertillery (how did it get there)?
What a surprise when I looked, there was a complete family album from 1891 of the Dickinson family. I knew the name George Dickinson for he had published postcards of the village which I had collected.
George was the son of Joseph and Mary Ann and shown on the 1871 census as 7 years old and was a scholar living in DRAMSIDE (surely DRAINSIDE)? The 1881 census showed the family had moved to Hope Cottage on the Skeldyke Road but no George, had he moved away? The 1891 census still showed the family in Hope Cottage but in 1901 there was no record of any of the family.
Finding out more from Ancestry.com yielded no further information so where had they all gone? In the album were photos of Wood Green church so what was the connection? Along came an answer from a most unlikely source — Stan Naylor. He produced a book about all the names on the war memorial and amongst them was a Canadian soldier, Norman Dickinson who had been killed in 1917 and was buried in the old cemetery. His internment was carried out by the Kirton Vicar assisted by Norman’s uncle — the vicar of Forest Gate. Mystery solved! It also gave me a reason as to why I could not find info after 1891, had they moved to Canada?
Now the mystery deepens — Norman, whose parents were Richard and Ada is listed as a 2 year old in 1891 and his father was Postmaster. This Richard had taken over from his father, also Richard (confusing).
In 1901 Norman, now 12, was listed as being at school but in 1911 whilst the family is still in the village there is no Norman.
Now my guesswork starts - were George and Norman cousins? Did they travel to Canada with Georges’ parents?
Hitting so many brick walls has stalled me. Did they go by boat and from where? Where did they land and set up home — Manitoba as Stan says?
So if there are any budding genealogists who want to take up the challenge be my guest! Any results, please pass on to Rachael (Editor@kirtonnews.co.uk). I feel it is time for the album to go back to the descendants that I’m sure are still out there.
Roy Mortimer
I’m sharing this as why do we have to wait to be 60 or 70 or 80, why can’t we practice this at any stage and age?
I asked a friend in his seventies what sort of changes he has noticed in himself. Here is what he said:
1) After loving my parents, my siblings, my spouse, my children and my friends, I have now started loving myself.
2) I have realized that I am not “Atlas”. The world does not rest on my shoulders.
3) I stopped telling the elderly that they’ve already told that story many times. The story makes them walk down memory lane & relive their past.
4) I have learned not to correct people even when I know they are wrong. The onus of making everyone perfect is not on me. Peace is more precious than perfection.
5) I give compliments freely & generously. Compliments are a mood enhancer not only for the recipient, but also for me. (A small tip for the recipient of a compliment, never, NEVER turn it down, just say “Thank You.”)
6) I have learned not to bother about a crease or a spot on my shirt. Personality speaks louder than appearances.
7) I walk away from people who don’t value me. They might not know my worth, but I do.
8) I remain cool when someone plays dirty to outrun me in the rat race. I am not a rat and neither am I in any race.
9) I am learning not to be embarrassed by my emotions. It’s my emotions that make me human.
10) I have learned that it’s better to drop the ego than to break a relationship. My ego will keep me aloof, whereas with relationships, I will never be alone.
11) I have learned to live each day as if it’s the last. After all, it might be the last.
12) I am doing what makes me happy. I am responsible for my happiness, and I owe it to myself. Happiness is a choice. You can be happy at any time, just choose to be!
Sent in by Fay Houltby
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 Primay School Supporting
Comic Relief
The children and staff at Kirton Primary School came up with a unique way to celebrate Comic Relief. They held a whole school Danceathon on the school playground!
Over 550 children dancing ‘in time’ was a sight to behold. The YMCA, Country Roads and Music Man have never looked so good. It created such a spectacle that even Look North came to film it. If you missed the footage, you can find it on the school’s website. You might even find the teachers’ training videos.
The school raised almost £900 for this worthy cause – and the children had a fabulous time!
Nik n Mix Visit Kirton
This lovely old Citroen H Type Van arrived in the car park this afternoon! How wonderfully refreshing for Kirton - turned out it was the ladies from Nik n Mix. It turned out to be very popular and caused quite a stir. The sort of positivity we need in Kirton.
Wonderful sweet things on sale, here’s hoping it comes back soon, See - Nik n Mix on Facebook & nikn_mix on Instagram.
Boston Classic Car Club
2024 Welding Workshop
Boston Classic Car Club held their third, members only, Welding Workshop in March. Following the success of the previous two workshops held in 2022 and 2023, it was again fully attended with a wide range of members, male and female, including one youngster of thirteen – Austin, grandson of BCCC Chairman, John Simpson.
Hosted once again by John the format followed previous workshops with the basics being demonstrated by BCCC member and professional welder, Paul Chafer, who also gave the opportunity for attendees to have a practical taste of the intricacies of TIG, MIG and spot welding and answered each and every question in his quiet, knowledgeable manner.
John showed and demonstrated many of the tools used in welding generally and more specifically when dealing with car bodywork, to help members’ approach their future attempts with more confidence.
Club member Graham Lunn described and demonstrated the particular skill of lead loading, for car bodies. Graham has over thirty years’ experience in vehicle bodyshops and has considerable experience in the use of this difficult technique.
It is an unfortunate fact that cars of any age can suffer from the dreaded ‘tin worm’ and the knowledge of how to deal with this and tackle it if necessary, is something that will benefit any classic car owner.
The Welding Workshop is only one of several events throughout the year which are only available to Members of the Boston Classic Car Club.
For more information please contact John Simpson, Chairman BCCC, 01205 369146 kerbsideautosrepairs@yahoo.co.uk.
Graves Park Social Club fundraiser for local Air Ambulance
A huge thanks to everyone at Graves Park Social Club for raising an incredible £2,000 towards the work of Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance. Your donation will help keep our helicopter in the sky and critical care cars on the road, bringing emergency care to people when they need it most.
Our fantastic volunteer, Eddie King went to a recent social night to accept the donation from Club Chairman, John Clubb and Quiz Master Dave Toynton. He said: “ It was nice to see so many people having an enjoyable evening while raising vital funds for such a vital cause. The club raised the money from quiz nights, bingo cards and a red and black night throughout 2023. Once again thank you for your support.
St Barnabas appeal for volunteers
Are you looking for a new challenge this spring? Or maybe you want to make new friends and develop skills for your CV? Your local hospice can help! St Barnabas Hospice are Lincolnshire’s leading charity specialising in compassionate palliative and end of life care. Each year we support over 12000 local people and we cannot do this without the support of our amazing volunteers.
We have volunteer vacancies in the Boston area. Our roles are flexible and can be adapted to suit your availability. Whatever your background, we would love to hear from you!
We need new volunteers to join our friendly team at our Wellbeing Centre on Endeavor Park. Our volunteers support patients, carers and the bereaved by running weekly groups including coffee morning, Knit and Natter and Creative Wellbeing (art and craft). If you can offer a listening ear and you make a good cup of tea, then we want to hear from you!
Love a good tombola? We need new faces to join our friendly Boston fundraisers. Whether you have many years of experience or none, we are looking for your enthusiasm to get involved and commitment to supporting the hospice. With the help of our Community Fundraiser, you will be able to attend events on behalf of the hospice and raise funds to continue our work.
Anyone aged 16+ can apply to volunteer, so what are you waiting for?
If you have any questions, please email volunteering@stbarnabashospice.co.uk or call 01522 518221. To register your interest, please visit our website https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/get-involved/volunteer/
Frampton Gardening Club
After our Winter break Frampton Gardening Club met again in Frampton Village Hall on Middlegate Road, for our first meeting of the year. We welcomed two more members to the group, but have room for more!
Our speaker was Peter Skeggs-Gooch from Thorncroft Clematis, who are a family business which started in Norfolk, but in 2021, moved the nursery to premises in Worcestershire. It all started because Peter’s mother bought his father a clematis as a present and from there on a collection began and is now a flourishing business, being 12 times Gold medal winners at Chelsea flower show. Peter gave us a very interesting talk, accompanied by slides, to show how it is possible to have a clematis for every season of the year! We all came away with a mail order brochure, which has to be one of the most informative plant brochures I have seen, with care guide included, so you can be sure of getting the right choice for your garden.
Our next meeting is on April 25th at 7.30pm, and our speaker will be talking about medicinal plants. In May we have our AGM and of course anyone interested may attend.
For more details, contact Ray Harding 01205 723181 or Maggie Welberry on 01205 722382.
Kirton Parish Council Meeting Minutes
- March 2024
Present: Councillors:
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 Pryke, Cllr M Sohail and Cllr J Stevenson.
Also Present: Clerk D. Fairweather. Borough Cllrs Rylott.
PUBLIC FORUM
Resident concerned no documentation for a burial and reservation had been received despite asking Clerk and later Chair. Clerk confirmed this had been sent but on checking the email was incorrect. Details will be posted.
POLICE REPORT – no updates
REPORTS FROM ELECTED BOROUGH AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS
Cllr Rylott – issue with hedging on Willington Road. Fix my Street reports sorted, although wasn’t but reported again and now resolved. Significant amount of litter in Kirton Holme a continual nuisance.
Kirton Holme reported a few road signs requiring attention.
Cllr Rylott is Chair of Environment and Performance at the Borough Council and at the last Scrutiny meeting the CCTVs were discussed. It is understood Kirton has problems with their CCTV monitored by the Borough. During closed session Cllr Rylott was advised they were totally happy with the amount of staffing in that suite. Asked if there were any issues with cameras not working properly and were individual cameras working correctly. They advised no issues which is known not to be correct. Was expecting some information from Kirton before the meeting but that information was not forthcoming.
Chair advised that he had reported incidents in the past and had asked for details on the CCTV. He has emails confirming information.
Cllr Pryke – assorted potholes reported. Suspicious sign in village saying, “please use mobile wherever possible to pay for your car parking” There are no parking charges in Kirton. Cllr Pryke to question at next meeting why are they appearing? Kirton now has a parking warden attending regularly. It appears Borough Council may be bringing charges to other areas. Significant reduction in parking fees now at Borough.
Many residents have reported to Cllr Pryke there are problems getting the right balance of housing in the area. Cllr Jarvis pointed out one problem is developers obtain permission for the advisable number of sustainable housing in their development but then put in an application to discharge of conditions and these do not then get built. Having spoken with the planners on this, the Local Plan is out of date and still has another 12 years to run and there are no plans to replace it. Way forward is to pursue a neighbourhood plan. Kirton PC would have to commence this with a public consultation. If in the future the PC would like to improve the situation a neighbourhood plan could be the way forward. Clerk advised there is a questionnaire being put together with YMCA regarding a project at Dame Sarah Swift, could this questionnaire be extended to incorporate details for a neighbourhood plan. Cllr Elston questioned if Boston Borough would adhere to a neighbourhood plan. Cllr Pryke advised they would have to as a neighbourhood plan takes precedence over the Local Plan.
Cllr Stevenson has research that shows there is the possibility of funding to assist with a neighbourhood plan, £8000 per year for three years. He also has further information from East Lindsey, BBC and South Holland have money to employ someone for this post. Cllr Stevenson to forward details to clerk. There has been confirmation that another Parish had been successful in this.
Had received requests regarding the number of TPO’s in the parish. Would speak with Clerk.
Boston Borough Council was instructed to consult with the people of Boston regarding Council Tax levels. A questionnaire was put on their website for two weeks which received 9 responses.
Also done on Council Tax Support Scheme which was done for seven weeks. Also, on website and press releases and local organisations, only 35 responses.
County Council Consultation for Local Mayor had 0.365 equating to a few hundred. At BBC meeting previous evening was felt Mayoral consultation was called into question, with no-one believing it was a representative result.
BBC Council Tax set at an increase of 3.45%
Kirton 3.11%
Frampton 6.91%
Sutterton 2.64%
Wyberton 9.16%
Police 4.45%
County Council 4.99%
Frampton being higher as they are looking to help local halls in the village as they are all financially challenged.
Home upgrade grant open to residents for up to £38,000 to improve insulation or fuel sources in their home. Restrictive regulations on applicants. To send details to Clerk to put on website.
Concerns that comments to Kirton News are not always printed.
Cllr Brookes – dangerous parking on Fairways, met with Cllr Astill. Discussed with Highways regarding extending the double yellow lines along the frontage. The traffic regulation order team had visited the location, and on this occasion, the team could not justify restrictions on a good width road with a 30mph speed limit for parking which only occurs for a couple of hours on a Sunday.
Drainage cover that had been reported, is now mended.
Bungley Lane has been referred to Highways as PC are still not happy with situation of roadway and water sitting there.
Clerk asked of Borough Cllr Rylott, at what point did litter bins become the Parish Councils responsibility? One on Green Lane burnt completely and had received a quotation to replace. Cllr Rylott to investigate and report back.
Cllr Elston also asked why Boston Borough’s carbon reduction, from street lighting, did not appear on their Local Plan when East Lindsey’s did, and they were written by the same organisation. BBC asset so why not on Local Plan? Cllr Elston still concerned regarding replacement costs when another District Council had paid for the replacement of streetlights to LED, but all BBC were offering was a loan at 4.5% 15 years. BBC not including any of streetlighting in Local Plan. Cllr Rylott felt that the issue should be asked of the Leader of the Council.
TO RECEIVE APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
To receive and accept apologies for absence as given to the Clerk prior to the meeting by Cllr S Watson, Borough Cllr Middleton, County Cllr Austin, and Brookes, resolved to accept reasons given.
TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST UNDER THE LOCALISM ACT 2011
None.
TO APPROVE NOTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING ON 6TH FEBRUARY 2024.
Proposed Cllr Elston seconded Cllr Stevenson that these be accepted as a true copy to be called minutes. Unanimous.
TO RECEIVE UPDATES FROM CLERK
Quickline -Wanting to organise a day to advertise/celebrate a meeting in Conjunction with the Parish Council. Also looking at a contract for broadband in Town Hall. Cllr Elston mentioned another company, Light Speed which clerk will approach for a comparison.
Streetlights in High Street – at last resolved.
Streetlights in village – following Parish Liaison meeting with discussion on streetlight replacements. Tried numerous contacts to ascertain cost of replacements but nothing forthcoming. It was agreed clerk to obtain quotations from a local company.
Car Park. Cannot surrender contract until 60 days prior to end of term without penalty. Agreed to give notice now. Cllr Astill asking if we hand a signed copy of the lease which we do.
Town Hall gutters – quote to complete work £690. Felt this was high as they had undercharged for original work. Clerk to obtain a further quotation.
Town Hall tower – Ray Sellars to meet with Pete Booth to ascertain works required and quote.
Chair asked for updates on litter bins, notification given to Boston Borough regarding siting of bins.
Chair also asked of new emails. Emails ready to go but Cllr Stevenson had given reasons why this should not be accepted. Clerk had checked the legal side. Internal audit had said, in an email in September, that if it is a generic email, specific to the Parish Council, but not a gov.uk it meets the requirements and a ‘.gov.uk’ was not obligatory. There must be a certain amount of trust, with passwords being in signed envelope. Council had agreed this at a previous meeting.
Cllr O’Connor felt in agreement to ‘.gov.uk’ for security.
TO RECEIVE RESULTS OF ORTHODOX CHAPEL LEASE
Proposed Cllr Pryke, seconded Cllr Stevenson to take an end of meeting in closed session.
Clerk questioning wording in Lease that enables Council to terminate. Chair asked for copy of Lease, to peruse. To be sent to all members.
TO RECEIVE UPDATES ON ADVERTISINGS ON RAILINGS
Signs had been placed by new user of Town Hall and was not aware which railings were to be used. Rectified now.
TO DISCUSS STREET LIGHTING
Despite several requests, no further information has been received by BBC. Clerk to obtain quotation to replace lights for next meeting.
TO DISCUSS FOOTPATH ACROSS TOWN HALL FIELD
Cllr Astill surveyed the path from King Street across the Rec. Significant number use it and walk diagonally where there is no pathway, which is naturally the shortest route. At present, when flooded, path is unpassable. Quotation to make good by lifting and putting side drainage in place. 1st quotation £4600, 2nd Quotation £9450, 3rd quotation £15834, for 2 footpaths. Further quotations to be requested.
Significant cost which has not been budgeted. Cllr Jarvis asked if Local business company had been asked to quote. Cllr Sohail asked if funding available. Cllr Astill frustrated that it cannot be decided now at this meeting. Chair would prefer to receive a further quote as they are significantly different. Chair proposed to obtain another quotation and bring to the next meeting. Seconded Cllr Jarvis, 9 for 1 against.
TO DISCUSS MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS 2024/2025
Proposed Cllr Pryke seconded Cllr Watson to move agenda item and take in closed session.
Agreed to defer to next meeting as an individual contractor had come forward for green areas within the village.
TO DISCUSS UKSP FUNDING
Clerk advised grant application had been made to UKSP. Closing date being 1st March and speaking with Chairman of Town Hall MC who were also receiving quotations to replace front doors, which they were to pay for. Contractor looking how much work is required.
Cllr Pryke speaking of other allocations of UKSP further information should be available at financial year end. Cllr Jarvis, details of £240k for heritage funding. Need to get applications into these funding opportunities.
Cllr Baillie advises to contact Heritage Lincolnshire for works to the Town Hall tower.
FINANCE
a) To Approve Payment of Accounts as per schedule
Charges on account with Lloyds is due to balance of funding in account. Clerk to transfer to another banking institution to invest. To transfer £35000. Unanimous.
Proposed Cllr Elston seconded Cllr Watson
b) To Discuss Donation for Kirton Holme Beacon – 6th June
Holding an event again to light the Beacon for event. Good to keep Kirton Holme included with the PC.
Proposed Cllr Elston seconded Cllr Jarvis.
PLANNING
To Discuss Applications Received Since Last Meeting
B/24/0065 41 Willington Road, removal of flat roof. No objections.
B/23/0393 Woodlands Court – previous comments were that extensions are for existing resident. Appears now that an additional building is taken place for an educational building. Concerns on excess vehicular traffic.
Cllr O’Connor Special EN unit being erected. Children using venues are usually taxied in from other areas. Cllr Bowen advised that it did not fall under LCC but would be a private entity.
MEMBERS REPORTS
CA – Raw sewage from Kings Street drainage.
CR – interested in what the Parish Council were doing regarding the large amounts of pylons in Kirton Holme which is to have a significant impact to the area. Feels everything comes to Lincolnshire. Many Town and Parish Councils have submitted objections to this. Kirton PC to support the concerns over the structures.
Proposed Cllr Elston seconded Cllr Jarvis that the PC against the pylons from Web and requested these go via the sea. Unanimous
TO RECEIVE CORRESPONDENCE
New resident complaining of lack of footpaths, pedestrian crossing at Middlegate Road. Also play areas are non-existent or looking sad. Should new housing developers be providing play areas with the number of houses being built? Letter also sent to Cllrs Rylott and Austin.
Cllr Elston mentioned play area off Nightingale Walk. Cllr Baillie believes there are many green areas within the village. There are many areas where footpaths are not available on both sides of roads. Unfortunately, Dame Sarah Swift Park is not well used and very often vandalised which the PC are thinking of as more a financial burden.
Cllr Pryke agrees there should be a footpath on the cemetery side of Boston Road. To contact Cllr Brookes to remedy the flack of footpath situation. Problem with play areas is many constructions sites are less than the figure required for open spaces or Section 106 monies.
Cllr O’Connor, PC should mention these facts when planning is made.
Meeting closed at 9.12
Date of next meeting: 2nd April 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