©Kirton News 2024

September 2024

The bumper issues just keep coming! Another 36 pager for you this month! It’s so lovely to see so many contributions this month, please keep sending them in! I really hope you’ve all had a lovely Summer but sure enough September comes-a-knocking quicker every year!

Our front cover this month is a wonderful photograph of the recent Picnic in the Park event which took place on the grounds of Kirton Town Hall and was arranged by our Parish Council. Please read the full report on page 13. It sounds like it was very well received and there are plans for similar events in the future which is fantastic.

I received a couple of very interesting articles from Colin Hayes regarding the Lincolnshire Freedom Fighters of World War II and their secret underground meetings! Please take a look on page 22 and if you’d like to know more, we will feature a follow up article in our October edition! Thank you very much Colin for sending this through to me.

Please see below a quick, Summery recipe for you all to enjoy (I’m clinging on to what’s left of Summer)!

Chicken Tikka Masala Fishcakes – taken from the Tesco.com website:

Ingredients:
500g (1lb) salmon, skinned and cut into chunks
1 tbsp tikka masala paste
6 spring onions, chopped
1 lemon, zested and cut into wedges
3 tbsp plain flour
2 tbsp vegetable oil
4 large pitta breads, cut open
1 little gem lettuce, leaves separated
lime pickle, to serve

Method: In a food processor, gently pulse the salmon, tikka masala paste, spring onions and lemon zest, until combined.

• Scatter the flour over a large plate; season well. With lightly floured hands, divide the salmon mixture into 16 and shape into patties. Dust in the flour.

• Heat the oil in a non stick frying pan over medium-high. Fry the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Drain on kitchen paper.

• Stuff the pitta breads with the fishcakes and lettuce leaves. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over and a dollop of lime pickle.

I’m always contactable at Editor@kirtonnews.co.uk. I’d love to see some suggestions for our forthcoming issues. We’d be more than happy to include you!

Rachael.

Meet The Locals

This month we hear from Lee Wilson at Core Eletrical Services

Core Electrical Services was established in 2008 by local Electrician, Lee Wilson and is based in Wyberton near Boston. The company provides a full range of electrical services whereby no job is too small. From fitting extra sockets and outside lighting, to full installations in new builds and rewiring older properties, Lee is available for all electrical work.

In 2022, to keep ahead of changing customer needs, he extended his training to include the installation of chargers for electric vehicles. Lee understands the importance of staying up to date with the latest technologies and consistently develops his skills to stay ahead of the game.

Over the years he has built an outstanding reputation with a wide customer base and is regularly recommended to friends, family and neighbours. Core Electrical Services combines the values of providing excellent quality workmanship with reliability, honesty and affordability. The company is accredited by the NICEIC, which provides customers with extra peace of mind and an assurance of Lee’s skills and practices.

It can be difficult to know where to start when looking for a local tradesperson and so anyone in need of a local Electrician should contact Lee, safe in the knowledge that he comes highly recommended. Some of these testimonials can be found on his Facebook page ‘Core Electrical Services Boston Electrician’.

Customers can contact Lee on 07960 388401 or 01205 365202 for a free, no obligation quote. He is fully qualified and is NICEIC registered.

Kirton Church Fund

All four numbers have won before. Congratulations to all the winners.

You will see looking at the prize money above that it has gone down in July. This is because we have lost another member. However her daughter has agreed to take on the number to continue to support the church.

As you may know the prize fund each month is dependent on the amount of money taken each month. Fewer members less money! Why don’t you come and join us and help us get the prize money up? There really is a very good chance of winning the Kirton Church Fund.

You too could be lucky in the KCF monthly draw but you have to be in it to win it! We have plenty of room for more members. Anyone over 18 may take part.

You can join at any time during the year at £5 a number 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. (Ten of the members play more than one number.)

The prize fund each month is 1/4 of the money taken each month. The rest of the money goes to the up - keep of Kirton Church. (Currently the roof appeal.) The more people that join the higher the prize fund and the more money we raise for the church.

Not already a member? Do come and join us!

Registration forms are available from Fay, please ring 01205 723529, or call in Kirton Church where forms are available. Paula’s Gifts on Station Road also has registration forms. For more information about Kirton Church Fund please give Fay a ring.

June 2024 Winners

1st PRIZE - £48.75 - TICKET NUMBER: 79
2nd PRIZE - £16.25 - TICKET NUMBER: 2

July 2024 Winners

1st PRIZE - £47.81 - TICKET NUMBER: 105
2nd PRIZE - £15.94 - TICKET NUMBER:82

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 Annual Show 2024

Last Sunday saw the 32nd annual show of the Boston Classic Car Club taking place at the Orchard Park field in Hubbert’s Bridge, Boston.

Entry was free for classics which were pre-booked (one of the cornerstones of every BCCC show) and over 500 had pre-booked with a mixture of classics from motorbikes, classic and vintage cars and light commercial vehicles so there was plenty to see for everybody

Entertainment during the day was provided by the Dream Belles singing duo, who were extremely popular last year and even more so this year, who entertained with hits from the 60’s and 70’s including some ABBA hits.

Personality Sarah Crabtree appeared and kindly presented, as well as sponsored, all the trophies through her company, Evoke Classics (main sponsors of the show this year). Sarah walked around the show during the day speaking to and interacting with as many people as she could – often not able to move on for many minutes because of the numbers who asked for selfies or autographs!

‘Fuzz’ Townshend, tv star of ‘Shed and Buried’ and ‘Car SOS’ also appeared and took part in a ‘Question and Answer’ session with John Simpson (BCCC Chairman). He also was very patient and good natured whilst speaking to a large number of visitors afterwards with a queue which, at times never seemed to reduce!

A raffle was held for the chosen charity of the Club for the year, Lincolnshire Emergency Blood Bikes and raised over £400.

Well over 1500 visitors paid for entry to the show this year not including others who had free entry (children under 16 enjoyed free entry) so it is estimated that attendees including exhibitors and traders totalled between 2500 and 3000.

To round off the show the BBMF Lancaster gave a flypast about 15 minutes after the official closing time with a good number enjoying the low pass over the field of this iconic aircraft.

Overall an excellent show, with excellent weather and certainly our best so far!

Book Review: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

Rebecca Skloot's "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" masterfully combines science, ethics, and human interest in a captivating narrative. The book sheds light on the remarkable story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells have revolutionized medical research.

Summary

Henrietta Lacks was an African American woman whose cells were taken without her consent in 1951 while she was treated for cervical cancer at Johns Hopkins Hospital. These cells, known as HeLa cells, became the first immortal human cell line, capable of dividing indefinitely in the lab. This discovery led to significant medical advancements, such as the polio vaccine and various cancer treatments.

Themes and Analysis

1) Ethical Implications in Medical Research: Skloot dives deep into the ethical issues around using Henrietta's cells without her knowledge. The book raises crucial questions about consent and ownership of biological materials.

2) Racial and Socioeconomic Inequities: The story highlights the intersection of race, poverty, and healthcare. Henrietta's treatment and the subsequent use of her cells are set against a backdrop of racial segregation and discrimination.

3) The Human Story: Skloot balances the scientific narrative with the personal stories of Henrietta's family, especially her daughter Deborah, who struggles to understand her mother's legacy.

4) Impact on Science and Medicine: The HeLa cells have had a profound impact on medical research, and Skloot provides a thorough account of their scientific significance.

Writing Style

Skloot's writing is accessible and engaging, making complex scientific concepts easy to understand. Her thorough investigative journalism, combined with narrative storytelling, creates a compelling read for both science enthusiasts and general readers.

Criticism

While the book is widely praised, some critics believe Skloot could have delved deeper into the scientific aspects of HeLa cells or explored the broader implications of genetic research. Others feel the portrayal of Henrietta's family's financial struggles could have been handled more sensitively, though Skloot's intent was to highlight their ongoing plight.

Conclusion

"The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" is a groundbreaking work that weaves together science, ethics, and personal history. It prompts readers to consider the human cost of scientific progress and the importance of ethical standards that respect individuals' rights and dignity. Skloot's book is a testament to Henrietta Lacks' lasting impact and serves as a crucial reminder of the need for consent and equity in medical research. The story has also been adapted into a movie, further extending its reach and impact.

Letters to the Editor

Safe Access To The High Street From King Street, Kirton

I write to air my concerns when trying to safely exit from King Street, Kirton onto the High Street, when vehicles are parked on both sides of the junction outside the Old Kings Head and down towards the corner opposite the Black Bull. Even when the road works started, they still managed to put signs across both pedestrian pathways, blocking your view. Most cars are blue badge holders, but not all. If the double yellow lines were changed to red (i.e. no parking at all and enforced) it would be allot safer for all, or even a mini roundabout.

Regards Mo

High Praise for Kirton Surgery

I would like to see some community spirit towards our local surgery in Kirton. I have a very complex medical history including previously having had Cancer. I moved here with husband and son 3 years ago. The service at the surgery is fantastic. The treatment for my diabetes, asthma, physio and counselling is all under one roof but the strain on our surgeries is never highlighted, just moaned about.

The doctor’s patient list just increases, referrals to hospital taking in excess of a year for routine procedures and weeks or months for emergency appointments. I contacted Matt Warman regarding the strain on local GPs and I know a doctor invited him previously to visit the surgery. I spoke to Richard Tice last Monday and he’s very interested in what the government are going to do to support our local NHS services. I would so like to read some praise about the surgery and all the different services they provide under a very small roof. For example, counselling being undertaken in a doctors room while he’s out of surgery. I receive the best health care from them that  I’ve received in probably 35 years.

They do go above and beyond to make sure the patients’ needs are met. It’s all too easy to knock the folk at the bottom of the ladder (meaning the GPs) but our government is responsible for the increased A&E times as no consultant means that while you’re waiting for a hospital referral to be met you return time and time again taking the same problem to the GPs door. I’m experiencing this so much at the moment and have recently visited PALS with a complaint regarding hospital wait times. I hope it was ok to contact you as we really need a bigger surgery.

Karen Pittock

Congratulations to Kirton Primary School’s Outgoing Headteacher

Congratulations to Mrs Donley, who was awarded Headteacher/Principal/ Dean of the Year 2024 at the Education Awards in July. She was up against other headteachers, principals and university deans for the national title. The judges praised Mrs Donley ‘for supporting staff by motivating them and leading them to their full potential’.

 Amazingly, the nomination had been made by Pearson Education who had heard of the huge success of Kirton Primary School and put Mrs Donley forward for the award.

Mrs Donley retired from Kirton Primary School in July, having clocked up 17 years as the Headteacher at the school, and 22 years as a Headteacher in Lincolnshire. Mr Neall is the new Headteacher, having previously been Head of School.

What a great note for Mrs Donley to end her career on!

Kirton Parish Council’s Picnic in the Park

Kirton’s first (and fingers crossed, annual) “Picnic in the Park” took place on Saturday, August 17th at the Town Hall Rec, and what a fantastic day it was!

With around 250 people joining in the fun throughout the day, the event was a resounding success. The public’s enthusiasm was truly infectious and it was heartwarming to see everyone turn up with such positivity, eager to mingle and make the most of the day. From toddlers to the young-at-heart over 80’s, attendees enjoyed four hours of delightful family fun in a relaxed, calm atmosphere.

The idea was simple: bring your own picnic, soak up the lovely weather, and enjoy good company on the grass. And enjoy it they did! The event featured a bouncy castle, face painting, and refreshments—all FREE, courtesy of the parish council.

Maxine’s Cakes were available for those who wanted to purchase these amazing confections. We were joined by the Chair of the Parish Council and our newly elected MP, Richard Tice. All in all, it was a great day for everyone. For those who couldn’t make it, don’t worry!

The council is keen to make this an annual event, and with the incredible feedback we received, next year’s picnic promises to be even bigger and better. Ideas from parishioners poured in, from using the fire station to having an ice cream van, adding a second bouncy castle (one for the older kids and one for the little ones), and even a slide. Lawn games and a possible a bottle stall were mentioned.

Richard Tice suggested a Short Tennis competition (councillors keen to get funding for our village asked if he’d sponsor that event - feedback soon!) We’re very excited to see what next year brings! A big Thank you if you came along to support the event.

In Memoriam: David Russell

Helena Saunby contacted Kirton News recently to inform us of the passing of her uncle, David Russell at the age of 95. David was born in Kirton and lived down Meeres Lane when he was small. He then moved to Dennis’s house down Willington Road. Helena said that he always loved Kirton and even after his father, Jack Russell had died, he continued to travel from his home in Canada to visit once or twice a year until he was 90.

RCN Proud: From Lincolnshire to Halifax

David Russell served in the Royal Navy/Royal Canadian Navy for nearly 30 years. David Russell was born on May 28th, 1929, in Kirton, North Boston, Lincolnshire, England. When he was 14 years old, he served in the British Army Cadet Force during the Second World War from 1942 to 1946.

Mr. Russell joined the Royal Navy on December 3rd, 1946, and then the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) in September of 1954. He first took his training in HMS Riely in England, and his Canadian Navy training at HMCS Cornwallis and HMCS Stadacona in Nova Scotia.

The courses that David took were Basic Seaman (Battleships), Submarine Training in HMS Dolphin in Gosport, England, Canadian Submarine Training in Halifax, Canadian Navy Senior Leadership (Instructor), and Sonar (both sea and air).

The ships and submarines that David Russell served on were the battleships HMS Howe, HMS Duke of York, and HMS Pelican, and submarines HMS Broadsword, HMS Tally-Ho, HMS Astute, HMS Trespasser, HMS Turpin, HMS Totem, and HMS Andrew. He then transferred to the RCN and served in HMCS Tapir, HMCS Talent, HMCS Trespasser, HMCS Alderney, HMCS Artemis, and HMCS Onondaga as a Coxswain. David’s first two ships were HMCS Skeena and HMCS Annapolis. Then, after these ships, he served as a financial counselor in HMCS Stadacona, Nova Scotia, from 1970 to 1972.

The countries, oceans, and seas that Mr. Russell served on were many. A few were England, Canada, the Atlantic Ocean, Lebanon, Malta, the Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Arctic Sea, the Caribbean Sea, and the Persian Gulf.

For his service, Mr. David Russell was awarded the Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Jordan Service Medal (Commemorative), and the Canadian Forces Decoration and 2 Bars. He also earned the NATO and the United Nations Medals but did not apply for them.

David was discharged in August of 1975, and his rank was Master Warrant Officer. His trade at discharge was Weapons Tech. David was married to Doreen Nelson from Boston, Lincolnshire, England, for 63 years. Mr. Russell also served as a volunteer with the Royal Canadian Benevolent Fund for many years.

Some interesting facts about Mr. Russell: He was transferred to Canada on relief, and after 15 years in Canada, David was finally sent back to HMS Dolphin, England, from where he was first sent to Canada. During those 15 years, he was a Sonar Operator, and one of the best in the RCN. He was transferred to HMCS Shearwater to the Helicopter Service, Royal Canadian Air Force, as a Sonar Air Operator.

Mr. Russell had a special invitation to attend British Admiral John Fieldhouse’s funeral in 1992 at Westminster Abbey, which was also attended by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Admiral Fieldhouse was a good friend of David, and they served on many ships together.

By Vincent Joyce,
Pictou County Military Museum

Freedom Fighters
Home Guard ‘cover’ for last ditch defenders

A Lincolnshire secret shared by more than 200 men but kept for more than 25 years is out this week with the publication of a book telling the story of a proposed 1939-45 war ‘British Resistance Movement.’ Boston and district figures largely in it, with an account of clandestine meetings, weapons and explosives stored in private homes in the town and area and an underground army secret wireless aerial on Boston Stump.

The book, a surprise even to the men who are listed in it and whose mystery war is now revealed for the first time is ‘The Last Ditch’ by David Lamp. It is sub titled ‘The secrest of the nationwide British Resistance Organisation and the Nazi plans for the occupation of Britain 1940-1944.

Among those who will be reading it with very special interest are former underground group leaders Captain Frank Dawson of Dalby Hall, Spilsby: Captain Leslie Clark and Captain W.E. Greenwood, both of Pilleys Lane, Boston and Lt. W.J. Ground of Spalding. They are among British Resistance leaders mentioned in the book.

As the title indicates, the book tells the story of preparations made in the dark days of Dunkirk for fighting an underground war in the event of Britain being occupied by the Germans after an invasion.

Hand picked

Senior army intelligence officers with experience of guerrilla war set up the organisation first as a scratch emergency force ‘last ditch’ defenders, then as a well-trained body of irregulars equipped to strike at the enemy from secret bases.

All the men were handpicked for their character and reliability, their fighting spirit and willingness to make sacrifices for patriotic reasons and their knowledge of their home areas.

First the leaders were chosen, then they were allowed to select their own men for patrols.

Most of them were in the Home Guard and continued to hold nominal posts in it but their real role was that of underground fighter.

All over Lincolnshire, as along the whole east and south coasts, secret bases were established in safe houses, derelict buildings.

There they held meetings, drew up plans, trained in the use of weapons and explosives and practised other deadly skills.

So strict was security that to this day, many of them have not told their wives and families anything about it.

Friends of relatives and even working or Home Guard colleagues know nothing about the underground activity. Few of them mentioned it after the war and so it has remained an almost total secret until now.

“It was all a very long time ago” says Spilsby Farmer Mr Frank Dawson, underground commander for South Lincolnshire during the war.

Eventually his home, Dalby Hall was the regional head quarters but when he was recruited, HQ was in the new demolished Blankney Hall. A 1914-15 army officer, Mr Dawson commanded the Alford company of the Holme Guard until he agreed to go underground.

In the days when Britain faced the threat of invasion he took part in top security meetings, built up patrols for South Lincolnshire, Supervised the establishing of secret hideouts, and helped to train the men in guerilla tactics.

“It was a kind of warfare that appealed to me” he admitted. “I was never much for army routine but when the time came to disband, I just forgot about the whole thing. I never thought anything would ever be known about our activities.”

Lincolnshire had 181 men formed into 31 secret patrols under nine group commanders and had 41 hideouts form which they would have operated.

“We reckoned we might last about three weeks after going underground and fighting back at invasion forces.” Mr Leslie Clark, Engineer for the Black Sluice Drainage Board says frankly.

He finished his underground war as a major in charge of a large area. When he was recruited from the Home Guard he had been in Boston for about years coming from Cambridgeshire.

He took over an area and a number of patrols that had already been established at a time when the underground army was being trained as an attack force.

It had been equipped with weapons such as machine guns, that were in short supply for even the regular forces following the evacuation of the Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk and also with explosives.

Secret Meetings

“The plan was for us to go to our hideouts when the enemy was approaching our area, and lie low until they had passed. Then we had to mount hit and run raids to disrupt their organisation as much as possible.

“We were expendable and we knew it but none of us felt heroic. Everybody would have been sharing pretty much the same dangers if the Germans had come and at least we were trained to hit back.”

He recalled secret meetings at his home (then in Spilsby Road) with patrol members coming after dark by pre-arranged routes to avoid being seen. As far as he knew, not even his neighbours ever noticed anything unusual.

His wife was one of the few relatives of men of the underground army who knew something about it. She had to know, for the garage at the side of the house was packed with explosives and was often a weapons cache.

His role was similar to that of Mr. W.E. Greenwood, now headmaster of Park County Junior School, a magistrate and holder of the M.B.E. awarded for this services to youth.

Mr Greenwood, then Captain Greenwood was in the underground army before Mr Clark and operated from headquarters at Butterwick, where he was headmaster of the local school.

It was when the Boston area organisation grew too large for one man that Mr Clark was brought in to help him.

Mr Greenwood’s home at Butterwick also often served as a storage place for weapons and explosives so his wife too was in on the secret.

“My wife was always very uncomfortably aware of the explosives stored under the stairs whenever the air-raid siren sounded” says Mr Greenwood.

Like the others he has not thought for many years now of the days when he practised lightning raids after dark on a ruthless enemy; the weekends he spent in underground chambers dug out of the side of a field band; or the secret meetings in different places and the training sessions at special Commando type centres.

Deadly Serious

“We are deadly serious prepared to accept the risks, and in the end we were well trained enough to have given a very good account of ourselves.” he says now.

“I’m proud to have been part of it and to have served with such a hand-picked body of men - and I still think it was a good idea.”

Accountant Mr W J Ground of Spalding, once Lt Ground and the group leader of four resistance patrols, still does not know how he came to be picked.

“I was and am completely unmilitary and at the end of it all I still didn’t know how to salute. But I admit they did make me pretty handy with weapons and explosives.”

Never Talked

His wife and family never knew anything about his secret war. Until they read the book, they still won’t. He never talked about it then or since: although now his wife will know why Captain Hamilton Hill, the army officer who organised the fieldwork and set up the Lincolnshire “underground army,” sent them a wedding present as Mr Ground was married during his auxiliary service.

All over Lincolnshire, as the book is read, the secret will be coming out. David Lampe’s book reveals that his research cleared up at least one domestic misunderstanding.

One wife had been convinced that her husband who kept disappearing all through the was, was having an affair with another woman!

This information has been taken from 'The Last Ditch' by David Lampe, a book about Britain's resistance against the Nazis in World War II. The more specific information was kindly sent in to me by Colin Hayes, a resident local to Kirton. Please look out for our October edition as there will be a follow up article concerning none other than Kirton's own Fred Fossitt.

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
- June 2024

Present: Councillors:     

Cllr D Jarvis, Chair, Cllr P Watson Vice Chair, Cllr C. Astill, Cllr F. Baillie, Cllr A Bowen, Cllr M Elston, Cllr Pryke, Cllr C Rylott,  Cllr Sohail and Cllr S Watson.Also Present: Clerk D. Fairweather. Borough: Cllr Middleton. County: Cllr Brookes. Not Present: County Cllr Austin

Public Forum

Resident of Kirton End, following discussions with some other residents, they realised there is no defibrillator in the village, and they would like one and are asking if the Parish Council can help. Details passed to clerk.

JH asking if the pedestrian crossing could be made into a pelican crossing. There have been times where drivers to not stop automatically and perhaps lights would help. Clerk to investigate with Highways.

PB – Question whilst the Borough and County Councillors are present. Inconsiderate parking at the junction of London Road, Boston Road and Kings Street is causing poor vision for vehicles wanting to join the main road from King Street. Due to the parking, vehicles must inch out to the middle of the road to see properly, and it is awaiting an accident to happen. Cllr P Watson advised there are no double yellow lines opposite the Black Bull public house.

Reports From Elected County And Borough Councillors

Cllr Brookes – pedestrian road crossing. It is not in his area but advises we should approach Cllr Austin regarding this. King Street – again approach Cllr Austin. 

Reduction of speed limit in Kirton End down to 30 mph. Still waiting for result. There is a meeting in July which Cllr Brookes will attend.

Highways are to be resurfacing the junction at King Street, London Road, Boston Road. Work to commence on 2nd July in the evenings from 8pm to 6am apart from election day, to try and alleviate some of the problems with previous works in Boston Road. Notifications of closure and diversion to be issued shortly. There will be no parking whilst work is going on. Cllr Baillie asked what happens if there is a funeral. Cllr Brookes will check and advise clerk.

Cllr Astill asking of survey on Bungley Lane, as Boston Road end is still flooding badly. Cllr Brookes advised unfortunately with so much rain priority must be given to properties.

Cllr Middleton – planning application for Wash Road which he believes Cllr Pryke has called in, will be discussed before the Planning Committee towards the end of July.

Cllr Rylott – Residents north of the village and others will be aware of the pylons threatening to come through our village. Cllr Rylott has been successful in organising a Joint Scrutiny Meeting arranged to discuss on Tuesday 2nd July 2024 at 6.30pm. If we do not make our objections known, it will go ahead.

Cllr Pryke – another company re wanting to put another route of underground cables, information available in time for next meeting. National Grid Stage III and IV Eastern Green Link had been delayed due to the elections.

To Receive Apologies For Absence

To receive and accept apologies for absence as given to the Clerk prior to the meeting by Cllrs O’Connor and Stevenson. 

All resolved to accept reasons given. Cllr Stevenson had attended an interview and was successful. The post takes him away from Kirton and a letter of resignation from the Council had been received. 

To Receive Declarations Of Interest Under The Localism Act 2011

Cllr Rylott of planning and will take no part in any planning discussions.

To Approve Notes Of Previous Meeting On 7th May 2024.

Proposed Cllr S Watson seconded Cllr Baillie that these be accepted as a true copy to be called minutes. Unanimous.

To Receive Updates From Clerk

Other than agenda items: Zebra crossing railings – request made to Highways.

own Hall broadband – a couple of quotations received but Cllr Stevenson has suggested another method which he is prepared to collate information for me.

PCC – meeting arrange for 11th June with Chair, Clerk and Cllr Baillie.

Request for support for Carl Sharp’s youth group. He is to have further details for PC to discuss in July.

CSW – received details from six interested people, Clerk to organise a training session.

Boston Borough Council play inspections – continual correspondence regarding the lack of these being received by the PC. Three different members of staff have advised they will have the officer to call me with no success. Clerk has cancelled the direct debit for these inspections awaiting an answer. We receive no reports of if they have been carried out or when. If they have been or any defaults to report. Cllr Elston is of the opinion that some of the equipment is not safe, and the PC would be liable if anyone were injured. This was disputed by the Chair. Cllr P Watson advised that if reports were carried out and being paid for the insurance company would have to agree to any liability claim made. Cllr Elston feels very strongly on this matter and asked why it was not an agenda item as he had requested. Has request on numerous occasions information from the clerk which had not been forthcoming and reminded Councillors of the Tower Hamlet claim of £335,000. Cllr P Watson advised that if this was a complaint against the Clerk then it should be taken to the HR panel. There was at this point no information to be able to discuss and agree a way forward. Clerk to continue pursuing BBC. Cllr Elston feels we should be at least having a full RoSPA inspection to see the way forward. Cllr Sohail made the point if we have not been receiving any reports should we in fact be due a refund. Cllr Pryke felt that Borough Councillors may have more effect with BBC officers than Clerk. Cllr Middleton suggested it was not worth the three of them looking into this and someone should be nominated. Cllr Pryke said he would take it forward as there had been many issues with BBC. Cllr S Watson and Bowen agreed Cllr Pryke to take this forward.

Cllr Astill suggested if the PC has concerns should the gates to the park be locked to alleviate any potential hazards?

Cllr Elstons overruling concern is that the Parish Council has no risk assessments or policies in situ should a piece of equipment be deemed unsafe.

Cllr Jarvis suggested that the PC should call and extra ordinary meeting to discuss this alone once the information is to hand.

Cllr Elston asked if a deadline could be set as LALC can give discounted rates with RoSPA but must.

 be booked by end of July. There was also a Play Equipment Inspections courses run by LALC.

To Amend Standing Orders To 4 Members Of The Human Resources Committee.

This initially was brought from Annual Parish Council Meeting as it was felt there should be four members on the HR Committee. Cllr Rylott was initially nominated but did not wish to stand now.

Agreed to keep HR Committee as three members. Proposed Cllr Jarvis, seconded Cllr P Watson. Unanimous.

To Nominate A Fourth Representative Of Hr Committee

Not now relevant.

To Discuss The Need Of A Cemetery Committee

At the request of Cllr Pryke as updates regarding burials, maintenance etc were never submitted by the Clerk. He felt there had been some confusion in the past which had spent time discussing whereas if there was a cemetery committee they could report to Council and save time in discussions of the full Council. Cllr Elston felt Clerk reported anything that PC required to know and there is no need for a separate committee. Cllr Astill advised he walks through there regularly and would be aware of any problems. Cllr P Watson suggested the cemetery finance be separate in order to be able to analyse these figures when preparing budgets for precept figures. Clerk agreed to set a separate tab on the finance sheet.

To Discuss The Social Media Officer Post

At the request of Cllr Pryke as was not discussed at Annual Parish Meeting. Chair thought this had been resolved in that Clerk and Cllr Sohail to all social media. It works and has no need to be changed. Proposed Cllr Elston seconded Cllr Astill

Cllr S Watson asked why the Facebook page is not updated as regularly as usual with road closures etc. and why there were pending applications awaiting approval for long periods. Clerk did not approve applications that had not agreed the policy. 

To Discuss Public Car Park At Town Hall

After a meeting with the Town Hall Management Committee, they had asked that the car park reverts to its original status and they would police events for the Town Hall themselves, with no official restrictions in place. New signs saying only ‘Town Hall Car Park’ to be erected on the building. 

This discussion was only the PC car park that decisions needed to be made. Once again long discussions took place regarding the future of the public car park. Cllr Bowen had previously submitted detailed figures regarding the movement of traffic. Cllr Astill felt Cllr Bowen should give the presentation of these details. Cllr Bowen would be prepared to do this but the decision regarding the public car park still has to be made. Cllr Pryke advised months ago it was agreed there would be a public meeting allowing the people of Kirton to have their say. Council must be prepared with their options for the public. Cllr Rylott was under the impression a joint meeting between the Town Hall Management Committee and the whole Council was to take place only to hear the Chair and Clerk had met with the three PC representatives of the THMC prior to their AGM. Cllr Bowen suggested maybe there should be a representative of the Council monitoring the car park and reporting back to the PC and he would be prepared to do that. Cllr Elston agreed this to be a solution for the immediate future. Cllr S Watson suggested that there should be more than one person to take on this responsibility. 

Cllr Pryke still advised we should hold a public meeting. Cllr Rylott asked if the Parish Council had views on what should happen with parking in the public area.

Cllr Elston suggested we hold a PC meeting to discuss what is required regarding the parking before a meeting of the public, all on the same evening.

To Receive Updates Of Events

Village Art Trail – Cllr Sohail had arranged this at a previous Council which had been successful. Details had been distributed to Council. People submit their artwork for viewing locally. If Council agrees, all that has to be agreed is date for the trail to run and the cost of entry. Cllr Sohail had approached the College and Schools to be involved. Local businesses to be asked if they are prepared to show the pictures in their windows. After discussion it was agreed the third week in September and £5 entry fee with £1 for children.

Picnic in the Park – Cllrs Sohail and Elston organising. Numerous contacts for ice cream van, bouncing castles, face painting, etc have been approached. Just need to agree a date. Town Hall Committee have agreed to be able to use Hall without charge.

Senior Citizens Christmas Meal. Date, caterers and entertainment booked. Cllr S Watson asked why entertainment was not as usual. An alternative had been suggested by a couple of residents who Clerk approached. They are more expensive but there are five of them. Tickets to be £1 as of days of old. Cllr S Watson asked why cost was being reduced as was not a lot to pay for a three-course meal. 

Although charged more in the last few years, previously been free of charge but records show £1 charge, which was used for numbers for catering. Proposed Cllr Astill, seconded Cllr P Watson cost be £1. 

Cllr S Watson advised we should advise nursing homes and get posters out to advise people in good time. Cllr P Watson asked cost of caterers, advised would be nominal. Cllr Elston asked if the caterer would be offended if the PC contributed vegetable etc.

Bingo – Clerk had asked other organisations regarding theirs and had presented details to the PC. Fridays are a good night. Clerk to check dates Kirton Holme run. Agreed to give it a go to see if successful and a fund raiser. Proposed Cllr Baillie, seconded Cllr Sohail. 

To Discuss Street Lights

Due to time, the item to be carried forward to a further meeting.

Finance

To Approve Payment of Accounts as per schedule proposed Cllr S Watson seconded Cllr P Watson, unanimous. Substantial payment for trees in Dame Sarah Swift. Cllr Rylott suggested tree works need to be reviewed for annual precept again on a maintenance programme.

Planning

To Discuss Applications Received Since Last Meeting

Claremont Cottage, Donington Road, proposed detached dormer dwelling and garage. No objections

Willington Road, proposed annexe located on site of previously demolished Nissen hut.

Willington Road, first floor extension over garage and single storey extension. Erection of side and rear fence. (2.5m) Council felt this quite high fencing.

Littleberry Hall, /station Road – proposed conversion, alterations, and extension of existing commercial workshop to form self-contained dwelling. 

The Flower Shop, Station Road, change of shopfront.

TPO’s on six trees at Woodlands Court.

Development on Wash Road, Planning Meeting 12th July. Cllr Pryke suggested facts be collated for next meeting to have arguments to take to that meeting.

To Receive Members Reports

CA – Digi-hub posters, printed by BBC have been delivered by him and Cllr Elston to the whole village businesses right the way to Sutterton. Roofs and gutters have been repaired on own Hall. Claremont Chase has been cut with many thanks from residents. Dropped kerb opposite vets requires attention. Will forward pictures to Clerk for Highways. Lady Bex fast food outlet parks outside of the Cod Father. It is a hazard when it is park and has to reverse the wrong way onto a one-way street. Residents complaining of the noise and fumes. Residents can complain to Environmental but it is on private land and the owner has given permission so PC can do nothing to assist.

No updates from LCC regarding damaged shed in Hemington Way.

AB – confirming the parking situation at the top of King Street is an act of the Highway Code. Has also been advised the car park cannot be closed.

FB – approached regarding an overhanging hedge on road from Churchyard pathway through to Penny Gardens.

ME – RBL have asked questions regarding the shrubbery in the War Memorial and are awaiting an answer.

RP – Concerns of PCC regarding the state of trees and footpaths in the churchyard. A meeting has been arranged for Monday 10th with Cllr Baillie, Chair, Clerk, and a member of PCC.  Has noticed Estate Agents are attaching to streetlights which Cllr Brookes advised us last meeting that this is against the law. Councillor had approached the Estate Agents. 

Pylon meetings have been postponed but have been re-arranged. BBC carrying surveys on town spending. Boston Town has received large amounts of money from the UKSP fund, and funds are where available for local villages.  

Government has now announced this is to be scrapped to spend money on the National Conscription Funding. May not receive any further funding.

Campaign instigated against lithium battery operated machines. Cllr Pryke would like PC to support any such campaign. Cllr P Watson believed some problem was standard of battery.

Heritage Lincolnshire to visit Kirton on 24th June regarding progress on the High Street. Cllr Elston invited, Cllr Baillie attending as representative of PCC.

Middlecott House nursery to commence again in September.

PC has received application to extend the speed limit to 30 mph in London Road which Cllr Pryke wishes the PC to support.

Residents requesting another speed limit to the South of the roundabout. PC are interested as there has been several deaths on that road. Cllr Pryke to gather information to justify a request.

Digi Hub posters around the village which Cllr Pryke was unaware of.

CR - Lighting of beacon in Kirton Holme asking if everyone is to attend. Asking what is happening regarding the planting around the village. Plants are to be collected this week and distributed to various volunteers for planting.

MS – updates and accounts from Town Hall Management Committee available, will forward to clerk.

PW - dangerous drain in Green Lane. Clerk has attempted to call gentleman who reported it to no avail. Has walked the Lane but cannot identify the problem. Cllr Watson reiterated it is a manhole cover which is not fixed with a ten-foot drop below which a child could fall down, and it is imperative Clerk deals with imminently.

Meeting closed 9.15.

Date of next meeting

July 2nd, 2024.

The Registers

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

7th July - Mila Rose Galvin

Weddings - We offer our congratulations to:

20th July - Andrew Watson & Carmen White
27th July - Richard Hardy & Danielle Avison
3rd August - Kristian Harrison & Hannah Kelk
10th August - Steven Newman & Elizabeth Barlow
10th August - Christopher Haynes-Wass & Samantha Lawton
17th August - Tyron Nash & Hannah Burrow

Funerals - May they all rest in peace:

30th August - David Smith

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