The Season of Change
Summer has gone, Autumn is upon us. Clocks go back an hour, and the leaves have fallen. But there’s other changes happening too. Peter George, a much respected, hardworking member of our Community is off to “pastures green”. Peter was, for many years, a member and Chairman of Lilley Parish Council. He has looked after the financial affairs of the Village Voice magazine, and latterly become “Editor in Chief”. Everything around us has flourished when influenced by Peter. We all wish him and his wife a long and happy retirement. We will all miss his presence.
Derek and Judith Smedley have recently moved too,…albeit just around the corner! Both have been prominent in our village life for more years than I can remember, and still work behind the scenes on our behalf. We welcome the new owners of The Rectory to our community.
Life as a Councillor is rarely quiet, and this last month has been no exception. Luton Airport expansion plans, our NHDC Local Plan submission, “brown bins!”, road repairs and upgrades, etc. All keep us on our toes, …and hopefully ahead of the game!
Our aim is always to work to ensure that our villages and communities get the best of what can be expected, although sometimes it seems like an uphill task! When one challenge is met, there’s always another looming up.
This month, we have granted Offley Recreation Centre funds to help replace the broken boiler. Lilley has been granted money to help upgrade the children’s play area, and the Cassell Hall is receiving a substantial grant to help buy new seating. All this helps our community groups to thrive. Let’s all pledge to support these facilities, when we can.
Garry at the Post Office has been unwell, and we wish him all the best for a speedy and complete return to health. Please continue to support the Post Office in these difficult times.
You can still apply for grant funding from your Councillors, on behalf of Community Groups, Clubs and similar organisations. Both Hertfordshire County Council and North Herts District Council have limited funds available...so let’s make sure we get assistance where possible! Ask us.
Best wishes
Councillor David Barnard
District Councillor for Hitchwood, Offa and Hoo
County Councillor for Hitchin Rural