Alex

Village Hall Committee March 2026

by
Date Monday 9th March 2026
Present Stella, Maggie, Damian, Claire, Toni, Bill, Steve, Jess & AlexObservers: Becca
Apologies Nick
Next meet Next meeting: Monday 13th April  7:30pm – Village Hall
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsNew actions:Stella opened with a warm welcome to Steve and Becca. Steve and Becca has joined the Committee.Agreed to run an agenda as opposed to minutes next time.Thanks to Kate Kimber for helping with the planting of the spring bulbs – Bill raised how beautiful the garden looks with the flowers starting to bloom. Thanks to Claire for coordinating. Claire & Maggie has honoured Doris by replanting some of her plants from her garden into the Hall garden. Acknowledged and showed thanks to the volunteers that contributed to the decoration of the hall (painting, carpentry etc). Stuart was thanked with a gift of wine. Agreed that Jim and Gary should be thanked with a similar gift. Nick to arrange.Claire Contacted EDDC to follow up about food hygiene inspection once the Kitchen is finished. Once the oven is professionally cleaned in April 2026. EDDC coming along after the breakfast.

Old actions: 
Damian to give Alex permission to negotiate with Eon – no updates/urgency.Stella to continue chasing the Charities commission about the change to our Governance – in Springtime. 
Nick – Need to check he has done thisClaire
Committee members and governance

Policies: Stella has redrafted DCT policies – Stella to run through the Health and Safety Policy with the committee and to run through the financial policies with Damian after the AGM.


Stella 
FinanceDamian: Circulated this month’s report.
Damian is confident we may finish 2025-2026 in the black as the final invoice from the Plumber we anticipated being c£2k came in at roughly £1,440. All kitchen related bills now payed. Just need to allocate the £1,000 grant we got for the kitchen accessories (trays, utensils etc). Discussed allocation of the funds and Damian to do a reconciliation of the monies so far as we only have until the end of March to spend the remainder. 
The talks we have hosted are raising around £30-£50 whereas coffee and Cake’s are raising closer to £200-300. 
Donations to Community Kitchen ended in January. There will be an £1,800 deficit without this income. We have a £400 grant towards to CK rent but this doesn’t cover the total deficit. Need to decide how to move forward with CK.
Geraldine was given a small gift of thanks for turning the accounts around at year end so quickly. 
Damian pointed out our efforts in fundraising are what has kept the hall afloat this year and next year we need more efforts in bookings of the hall to push income without so much labour.
Claire has begun fundraising/find sponsors for the Easter Bingo and successfully secured £500 towards the event. Our Main sponsor is Heltor Oils and supported by Shoobridges.		Damian










Grants

Alex: To meet with EDDC to report back on the grant application. 

Damian to please produce a receipt for £400 worth of CK rent to provide evidence to the Council. Committee discussed the spend of the grant and what items come under the limitations of the grant. Claire to manage the spend of the remainer of the grant.
Claire has applied for a Community Grant Fund for the new stage curtains.
The Committee discussed keeping our eyes peeled for further grant opportunities – we will be able to apply for a further lottery grant in September 2026 if we want to for a new projector/screen – Alex mentioned Awliscombe did similar.

Alex



Damian




Maintenance
The Committee acknowledged the stellar work Jim has been doing as our new cleaner and going above and beyond – and shared our thanks for his hard work so far.
Discussed the plaster work on the wall by the stage – the Committee voted and all agreed to repoint and tidy the new exposed brick wall.



Hallway and back foyer now looks even more worn now the main hall is done. We have all the paint and kit and just need time/volunteers (Jim/Stuart/Nick?)

Thanks to Carla for taking away the rubble from the front – the Committee are grateful for Carla always pitching in with tidying up – thank you Carla!




Alex will ask Rufus to complete the work on the wall.

Nick


Bookings
We need to make sure that hirers clean up after themselves, perhaps we can make up a checklist that they run through but we could reserve the right to get a professional cleaner if a booking left the hall in a poor state.Stella to liaise with Gary. Still in Progress.
We have a new regular booking for Tai Chi which is great as it is every week of the year. We have 2 weddings in 2026 and one in 2027 so far. We need to advertise the hall more for bookings and keep pushing for reviews. 
Stella and Gary have a good process with showing bookers around at the start of a booking to be on hand for any FAQs and ensuring the customers are comfortable.
Media team keep promoting the hall socially – We need more pictures of the hall in use to use on the Instagram/facebook pages. We could reach out to local influencers to promote the hall. 
Claire mentioned a business forum in Honiton that we could explore for appealing to more corporate clients or small business clients for staff parties etc.
 Toni mentioned creating a suppliers list to provide prospective bookers inspiration of what the hall could be used for and a list of what we have available at the hall for hirers to use.
Discussed having a “library” of “toys” (giant jenga, ping pong table, games, etc) for villagers/bookers to use as part of a benefit of booking and Becca suggested doing it as an additional cost for wedding bookings.
We were delighted to welcome Cllr. Jeffries and his daughter to Community Kitchen this week and show him where the money he pledged to the hall was going. Agreed that CK and Coffee&Cake are integral to the value of the hall in the community.


Stella











Alex/Toni/Jess





Toni
Future events

Saturday 14th March – Village Halls Week/Mothers day breakfast. Jess to coordinate with Claire.Saturday 28th March – Coffee & Cake and Bingo. Commitments made by Toni, Alex, Claire, Jess for the 28th to be present/on the door. Alex and Becca to host Coffee and Cake. Jess to organise a kids easter egg raffle. 
Future events:talks: Hardy wine talk / gardening talk Coffee and Cake & Bingo on 28th March Potential Quiz – 9th May 2026. Stella putting dates forward to Hamish.  6th and 7th  June – Flower festival.Father’s Day 21st June 2026 – Need to discuss because we need a team to cater/host. 11th July – Live Music, Exeter Street Band and BBQ. Need to get a bar licence for this.Flower and Produce Show 1st August 2026Gittisham Fete 5th Sept 2026Bill suggested a Gardeners Question Time. Halloween party for Kids – Jess Hosting. To be booked Sat 31st October 10-2?November – Becca suggested a jumble sale.November – Xmas extravagada and BingoBurns night 2027 – Sat 23rd Jan 2027.  Nick to book the caller for next year. Claire to book the bagpiper.Need to be mindful of planning future events to not clash with Parish Council events. 










Stella to confirm Quiz date with Hamish.











Nick
AOBNone

   MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Rough hierarchy order.
Sewerage and drainage pipe replacement
Air to air heat pump 
Re-fit audio visual capabilities
Rewiring of cabling, particularly in the loft
(Rising) damp in southern elevation
Internal repaint including / especially ceiling
Hose reel – ours leaks significantly and we need a new one for the garden
Bin Store
Sound Deadening Clouds/equipment to make it less echo-ey – Alex
Stage Curtains and for the other end of the hall to sound deaden – Claire
Hooks on the doors in toilets specifically the disabled toilet – Toni to provide
Murals in the toilets – Maggie/Claire exploring

FINANCE REPORT

Kitchen works
Grants awarded to cover the kitchen works were £20,980.00
An additional grant from DCC for £1,000 has now been received. 
The spend on the kitchen works is:
£8,130.60Allsop/Pitts deposit
£8,130.60Allsop/Pitts second payment
£980.01Allsop/Pitts fridge/freezer payment
£648.23Drake’s Plumbing payment
£5,115.86Damien Richards building payment
£1,440.00Electrician payment
£202.03Jewsons
£395.18IKEA etc
£272.64Allsop/Pitts final payment
£230.47Allsop/Pitts miscellaneous
£105.84Miscellaneous
£25,651.46
Fundraising
Fundraising during 2025-26 has made a profit of £4257.05. (N.B. Easter Bingo was at the end of 2024-25.)
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026
INCOME9th March 2026EXPENDITURE9th March 2026
2024/2593.7% of 2025/262025/262024/2593.7% of 2025/262025/26
Balance b/fwd£5,571.27Insurance£723.73£678.14£959.73
Non-domestic rates£0.00£0.00£0.00
Hire of Hall£5,828.56£5,461.36£5,819.06Cleaning/grass cutting£1,901.59£1,781.79£937.15
Social Events£5,782.76£5,418.45£7,093.26Maintenance/Equipment£45,022.20£42,185.80£26,605.73
Interest£0.00£0.00Water/Gas/Electric£3,039.75£2,848.25£2,381.20
Miscellaneous£43,476.90£40,737.86£51,406.32Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)£2,457.59£2,302.76£6,063.82
£55,088.22£51,617.66£64,318.64£53,144.86£49,796.73£36,947.63
Balance£32,942.28
Total£69,889.91£69,889.91
Reserves
Redwood Deposit A/C closed: £16,229.17 balance and £309.15 interest transferred 2/26
Redwood Deposit A/C transfer: £10,185.00 5/25
Total reserves transferred: £26,414.17 capital and £309.15 interest
Therefore, current A/C balance £6,527.58
Cash Float £364.30 to be banked 31/3

Gittisham Gazette April 2026

by
Gazette Logo

April 2026 — Produced for the Parish Council and St Michael’s Church

Gazette Updates

The Gazette is getting a bit of a digital spruce-up. By moving to this new automated email system and website format, we can get village news, beautiful photos, and event updates out to you faster and more reliably than ever before. Please subscribe to our mailing list on the website https://gittisham.org.uk/subscribe-gazette/

However, before we look to the future of the Gazette, we must take a moment to look back and offer our deepest gratitude to Carol Hall.

Carol has been the editor, creator, and driving force behind the Gazette for the past few years. Her hard work, dedication, and love for our community have kept us all connected, informed, and entertained. As Carol steps back from the editor’s desk to enjoy a well-deserved rest, we want to say a massive thank you on behalf of the whole village. Carol, the Gazette wouldn’t be what it is today without you!

We need your voices! While the look might be a bit different, the heart of the Gazette remains exactly the same: this is your village newsletter. We want to fill these pages with your stories, updates, and announcements.

Do you have:

  • A summary of a recent village event?
  • Announcements for the Parish Council or Church?
  • Beautiful photos taken around the parish?
  • A bit of local history or a gardening tip to share?

Please send your pieces, ideas, and photos directly to our new email address: .

Thank you for reading, and here is to the next chapter of Gittisham news!

Warm regards,

The Gazette Team

Green Gittisham: No Mow May & Helping Our Local Wildlife

At our Parish Council meeting last week, we had a really inspiring discussion about how we can work together to make Gittisham a little more environmentally friendly and support our fantastic local wildlife.

We are looking at a few initiatives and would absolutely love to hear your thoughts and ideas on how we can make our parish a haven for nature!

Pledging a Patch for “No Mow May” Next month marks the return of the national “No Mow May” campaign, which encourages people to lock up their lawnmowers for the month to let wildflowers bloom and provide vital nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Don’t panic! You do not have to let your entire garden turn into a wilderness. If you love a neat lawn, perhaps consider just leaving a small “wild patch” in a back corner, letting the edges grow out, or leaving a strip of grass untouched. Even a one-meter square of wild grass can produce enough nectar to feed hundreds of bees a day!

Owl Boxes and Hedgehog Highways Beyond the lawns, we are exploring other ways the parish can support our wildlife. One idea discussed was building and installing owl boxes around the village to support our beautiful local barn and tawny owls.

We are also thinking about encouraging “Hedgehog Highways” (making sure there is a small CD-sized gap at the bottom of garden fences so hedgehogs can roam safely at night) and building bug hotels.

We Want Your Input! How can we make Gittisham greener?

  • Do you have an idea for an environmental project we could tackle as a village?
  • Would you be interested in a community afternoon where we build bird boxes or owl boxes together?
  • Are you planning to leave a wild patch in your garden this May?

We would love to hear your thoughts, feedback, and ideas. Please email us at or have a chat with any of the Parish Councillors. Let’s see what we can achieve together!

What’s On?

-Village Hall

Open Bookings

  • Tuesdays – Tai Chi & Quigong 09:50 am- 11:10am
  • 3rd Tuesday of the month- Yoga 18:15
  • Wednesday – Folk Dance Club 7pm
  • Thursday- Community Kitchen 18:30
  • 2nd Sunday of the Month Pierre’s Cafe 10am

Hire the hall: https://gittisham.org.uk/village-hall/hire-the-hall/

Committee Events

  • 25th April Coffee and Cake 2.30 – 4.30
  • 9th May Quiz. 7pm
  • 11th May Village Hall AGM 7pm
  • 16th May Piano concert. International Pianist Michael Harrison  1-6pm
  • 30th May coffee and cake 2.30 – 4.30
  • 6th/7th June Flower Festival 
  • 21st June Father’s Day BBQ
  • 27th June  Coffee and Cake. 2.30  – 4.30pm
  • 11th July Band Night.  Exeter Street Band 7pm
  • 1st August Flower and Produce Show
  • 29th August Coffee and Cake 2.30  – 4.30
  • 5th September Fete
  • 28th November Christmas Craft Fair, expressions of interest in tables being taken 
  • 28th November Christmas Bingo 7pm for 7.30pm 

–Church

  • 22nd April 7 pm is APCM, in the church, anyone welcome to sit in until our PCC meeting afterwards!
  • St Michael’s, Gittisham Sunday April 26th Holy Communion at 11am
  • Natter and Nibble at Gittisham Farm May 9th
  • Flower festival June 6 th & 7 th With refreshments in hall & entertainers performing!
  • 200 Club Winners April
    • 1st Prize              £75       Karissa Marker
    • 2nd Prize             £50       Helen Hayman
    • 3rd Prize              £25       Alan Broom

Events are also listed here: https://gittisham.org.uk/whatson/

Holy Dusters Needed
Can you spare a little time at your convenience?
Cleaning products are in the church by the vestry door.
Thank you.    

Gittisham Village Hall Monthly Update

Village Hall
What an exciting month March has been at the Parish Hall! A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported our events – it’s been wonderful to see such a fantastic community spirit.

Our BIG Breakfast which we put on to celebrate National Village Halls Week marked our first venture into a morning event, and what a start it was! It certainly put both our new kitchen and the committee through their paces, but we’re delighted to say the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Encouraged by your support (and appetites!), we’re already gathering ideas and volunteers to plan the next one.

We also enjoyed a lovely coffee and cake afternoon, which proved a big hit with many of you, offering a chance to relax, chat, and indulge in some delicious homemade treats. And of course, who could forget our epic Easter Bingo! With a hotly contested raffle and plenty of excitement throughout the evening, it was a true highlight. Special mention must go to our very own professional bingo caller Marty, who continues to be a much-loved village legend!

Looking ahead, we have a change of pace with a quiz night planned for May 9th– a great opportunity to test your knowledge and enjoy a fun evening with friends and neighbours.

We will also be holding our Parish Hall AGM soon (May 11th). We warmly encourage you to come along, hear all about what we’ve been up to over the past year, and learn more about our plans and hopes for the future. Your ideas, support, and involvement are what keep our hall thriving.

Thank you once again for your support and being part of such a vibrant community – we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events.

Young Councillor of the Year Finalist

Last month, I had the honour of travelling to London as a finalist in the Star Council Awards, in the Young Councillor category. It was a really special experience, and something I feel very grateful to have been part of.

I would like to sincerely thank Gittisham Parish Council for putting me forward for this nomination — it means a great deal to have that support. Being recognised in this way reflects not just my own efforts, but the strong sense of community we are fortunate to have here.

It is genuinely a pleasure to serve Gittisham. I feel very lucky to be part of such a kind, supportive village, where so many people quietly give their time to help others and keep things going.

Thank you to everyone who contributes to making Gittisham what it is — I’m proud to play a small part in it. – Alex

Flower and Produce Show 2026

Flower and produce images

A Little Bit of “Dirty” Fun!

Get ready to dig deep and show us what you’ve been growing behind closed doors! Whether you’re a master breeder or a first-time fumbler, we want to see your best bits on August 1st.

We’ve got a category for everyone, so don’t be shy:

  • Vegetables: We know size isn’t everything, but who will have the longest runner or the biggest cucumber?
  • Flowers: Show us your sweet peas and your impressive spikes! (Please ensure your pansies are floating comfortably in clear water).
  • Homecraft: Is your lemon drizzle moist enough? Looking for a date? The Date and Walnut Cake is nutty, moist, and guaranteed to satisfy. Remember, we want to see if you can truly make your pie and eat it.
  • Men Only: Can you handle the Drunken Sunken Chocolate Cake, or will it all end in a soggy bottom?
  • Potatoes: If you haven’t started yet, get your hands on Sue and David’s buckets—everyone loves a good tuber.

Don’t just stand there clutching your walking stick—come and show the parish what you’re made of!

Schedule available here: https://gittisham.org.uk/events-directory/flower-and-produce-show/

Hall Kitchen Refurbishment

Old Kitchen
New Kitchen

Before and After

Thanks to a £20,000 national lottery grant from the community fund and the hard working efforts of the committee and the lovely community. The new village hall kitchen is complete! 

We had a fantastic opening ceremony in February where Sue Fallows kindly cut the ribbon declaring it open!  Thank you everyone

Sue cutting the ribbon for the new kitchen

Whose home is this? Utalising the umbrella holder for their gardening tools!

Email in

International Pianist Playing at the Hall

Referred to as an “American Maverick” by Philip Glass, New York-based Michael Harrison is an internationally acclaimed classical composer and pianist. A Guggenheim Fellowship recipient, he is celebrated for beautifully blending European classical traditions with the intricate rhythms of North Indian ragas.

He is famous for mastering “just intonation”—an ancient tuning system that creates incredibly resonant, meditative sounds—and even invented his own modified “harmonic piano” to play it.

16th May 2026 1pm

Having an artist of his global caliber visit Devon to play at Gittisham Village Hall is a rare and unmissable treat!

Gittisham Fete is on Saturday 5th September 2026 

We need as many helpers as possible please get in touch with Alex, 

Returning for 2026 is the Gittisham Parish Scarecrow Competition!
Get your thinking caps on!

Parish Council Updates

PARISH COUNCIL – APRIL 2026 REPORT

Six councillors met for the April meeting, along with one member of the public.

EDDC report.

Alasdair Bruce (EDDC) sent a report in his absence, saying that potholes have been dominating his inbox of late.  He said he had experienced six separate road closures the day before, two of which were diversions from main roads and ended in closures further along.  He said he would be writing to Devon County Council demanding urgent action around what appears to be an unplanned and uncoordinated approach to the state of our roads.

There may be a vote later this month at full council with a view to garner a statement that a tourist tax will not be imposed by EDDC, Alasdair Bruce reported.  He has reservations around any tax, including how much impact this may have on the already struggling tourist industry, both positive and negative. Secondly, he said it is not always clear where any collected revenue would go and who would oversee it. If it was properly ring-fenced for purely supporting the industry, it could be used to improve and upgrade facilities used by tourists and locals alikesuch as public toilets.  However, he feared that a tourist taxmay get absorbed into a general fund with little money, if any, targeted in such a way that will benefit visitors who pay it. 

Crimes.

January 2025

Longlands Way: 1 x other theft

Finance.  Members agreed the finances.

Climate change.

Councillors decided on various small ‘wins’ that would reflect the parish council’s commitment to mitigating the effects of climate change.  It was agreed to buy some owl boxes, and we would like to hear your suggestions of where they can be installed. Councillors are also hopeful of organising a bird box making session and a nature-type event in the village play area.  The parish council will be promoting no-mow May next month; this is turning into an annual event that allows wildflowers to bloom, providing vital nectar for pollinators and increasing biodiversity.

Emergency plan.

Councillors discussed buying a salt spreader for the parish, and mulled over various different models.

Bus shelters.

The Chair said Michael Poll had done an excellent job in sprucing up the village bus shelter, adding some shelves and painting it inside and out.  It’s hoped the Vale bus shelter can get similar treatment in the near future. 

Road closures.

04–22 May 2000-0600hrs Construction / Improvement/Upgrading – A30 westbound and eastbound,Daisymount to Turks Head junctions.

14 May 0930–1530. Road through Alfington closed for Openreach pole test.

Carol Hall.

This was Carol Hall’s last meeting as Chair, as she has tendered her resignation as a parish councillor.  All present thanked Carol for her outstanding service to the local community and dedication in leading the parish council, and said she would be greatly missed.

Next meeting.  14th May 2026 at 7.30pm in the parish room.  This is also the annual parish meeting.  All welcome.

Gittisham Sky Watch: What to look for this April

As the spring evenings begin to draw out, April offers some fantastic stargazing opportunities right above the parish. If we get a clear night, step out into the garden and look up:

  • Catch the Evening “Star”: Venus is returning to our western evening sky this month. It is incredibly bright and easy to spot just after sunset. On the evenings of April 18th and 19th, look west to see a beautifully thin crescent Moon sitting right alongside Venus—a perfect photo opportunity!
  • The Lyrid Meteor Shower: The first major meteor shower of the year peaks on the night of April 22nd (into the early hours of the 23rd). Caused by dust from Comet Thatcher, you might see up to 18 “shooting stars” an hour. Tip: The moon will set just after midnight, meaning our dark Devon skies will be perfectly pitch-black for meteor spotting in the early hours.
  • The “Pink” Moon: We already had our Full Moon right at the start of the month (April 2nd). Traditionally known as the “Pink Moon” after the early spring wildflowers, it was also the Paschal Moon, which determined the date of Easter this year! Our next full moon will be the “Flower Moon” on May 1st.

Flower and Produce show 2026

by

2026 Gittisham Flower & Produce Show: A Little Bit of “Dirty” Fun!

Get ready to dig deep and show us what you’ve been growing behind closed doors! Whether you’re a master breeder or a first-time fumbler, we want to see your best bits on August 1st.

We’ve got a category for everyone, so don’t be shy:

  • Vegetables: We know size isn’t everything, but who will have the longest runner or the biggest cucumber?
  • Flowers: Show us your sweet peas and your impressive spikes! (Please ensure your pansies are floating comfortably in clear water).
  • Homecraft: Is your lemon drizzle moist enough? Looking for a date? The Date and Walnut Cake is nutty, moist, and guaranteed to satisfy. Remember, we want to see if you can truly make your pie and eat it.
  • Men Only: Can you handle the Drunken Sunken Chocolate Cake, or will it all end in a soggy bottom?
  • Potatoes: If you haven’t started yet, get your hands on Sue and David’s buckets—everyone loves a good tuber.

Don’t just stand there clutching your walking stick—come and show the parish what you’re made of!

Schedule available here: https://gittisham.org.uk/events-directory/flower-and-produce-show/

Village Hall Committee February 2026

by
Date Monday 9th February 2026
Present Maggie, Damian, Nick, Claire, Toni, Bill, Jess & Alex Observers: Becca, Millie, Steve
Apologies Stella
Next meet Next meeting: Monday 9th February 7:30pm – Village Hall
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsNew actions:Acknowledged and showed thanks to the volunteers that contributed to the decoration of the hall (painting, carpentry etc). Stuart was thanked with a gift of wine. Agreed that Jim and Gary should be thanked with a similar gift. Nick to arrange.Claire Contacted EDDC to follow up about food hygiene inspection once the Kitchen is finished. Once the oven is professionally cleaned in April 2026.Stella to continue chasing the Charities commission about the change to our Governance – in Springtime. Stella absent so to be discussed next time.
Old actions: 
Damian to give Alex permission to negotiate with Eon – no updates/urgency.
NickClaire

Committee members and governance

Devon Communities Together Meeting: Alex gathered information about their sound deadening and noted the fortune of our hall being tucked away as opposed to on a main road. Nick Received positive feedback from their chair regarding our coffee and cake afternoons. Yettington will host the next one in April.Discussed recruiting more Committee Members to help with fundraising events. Claire to put it in the Gazette and Alex to post on Facebook calling for new Committee Members. We have 3 new faces around the table this evening!

Policies: Stella has redrafted DCT policies – Stella to run through the Health and Safety Policy with the committee and to run through the financial policies with Damian.
No Action

Claire/Alex
All
FinanceDamian: Circulated this month’s report.Damian gave a detailed recap of the YTD financials. Bookings on the up now we have reopened the kitchen and bookings. The redwood account has been closed down so banking is simplified. Damian has not yet banked the cash from the most recent events but due to soon which will help the bank balance.
Expenditure – insurance has increase and extended cover of the buildings insurance off the back of advice from the estate to meet the same standard. Utilities spend is less due to the solar panels and improvements such as windows, doors and insulation in the hall.
Expenditure on the kitchen is just over £26k. The annual returns were submitted with the Charity Commission just in time and Geraldine deserves thanks for her quick turn around of the accounts for 24-25. Huge thanks from the Committee to Damian, Alex and Geraldine for their work on the accounting with the deadline of the 31st Jan.
This years’ Easter Bingo falls into this financial year and Damian shared his hopes that it will push us into the black and make us break even.
Damian sorted the banking mandates and now Nick, Damian and Jess are mandates of the accounts.

Claire has begun fundraising/find sponsors for the Easter Bingo and successfully secured £500 towards the event. Our Main sponsor is Heltor Oils and supported by Shoobridges.		Damian










Grants

Alex: To meet with EDDC to report back on the grant application. 
Claire has secured a £1,000 grant for £600 of equipment and £400 of Community Kitchen rent. We are very grateful to Cllr. Jeffries to his support in getting this grant. 

Stella to please produce a receipt for £400 worth of CK rent to provide evidence to the Council. Committee discussed the spend of the grant and what items come under the limitations of the grant. Claire to manage the spend of the remainer of the grant.






Alex





Stella/Claire




MaintenanceJim has begun cleaning the hall. The committee are satisfied so far.
Claire raised the gutter at the back and was overspilling when it wasn’t raining heavily. The rear skylight was cleaned by Alex – thank you.
We require smaller grills on the outdoor vents. Claire to purchase in Springtime
Discussed the plaster work on the wall by the stage – the Committee voted and all agreed to repoint and tidy the new exposed brick wall.
Thanks to Bill for doing the boxing in in the Kitchen.
Damage to the wall in the kitchen from a private booking this weekend just gone. A new sign has been put up to not put heavy items on the shelves. Stella has notified the booker of the damage and T&Cs. Nick to inform Stella and to ask Allsop and Pitts to return to iron out a couple of snagging items.
Hallway and back foyer now looks even more worn now the main hall is done. We have all the paint and kit and just need time/volunteers (Stuart/Nick?)






Claire

Alex to arrange Rufus to do the works.


Nick


Nick
BookingsThanks were passed on via Maggie to Alex and to the Committee for the generosity and help in hosting Doris’ Wake today.
We need to make sure that hirers clean up after themselves, perhaps we can make up a checklist that they run through but we could reserve the right to get a professional cleaner if a booking left the hall in a poor state.Stella to liaise with Gary. Still in Progress.
Media team to check out the Wedding Extravaganza at Westpoint and look to promoting the hall for more weddings.







Alex/Toni/Jess
Future events

Kitchen launch party: Evening Drinks on Friday 20th February, to invite the village and all the contractors to celebrate our new kitchen. Went through the invite list and extended the invites to friends of the hall, sponsors, individuals/businesses that have gifted time/gifts/money to the hall. 
Divvied up the nibbles –  Alex to do Cheese and Grapes on sticks, Claire to do Ritz with Smoked Salmon/Philly & Cucumber and Cocktail Sausages. Sure doing goats cheese and beetroot. Mozz, tomato, basil bellinis – Jess. Vegan food from Clare Chapman. Claire to get cordials and fancy non Alcoholic drinks. Millie will bring some food too. Bill making little spinach pies.
Friday 6th March – Environment Talk (Vicky). Toni making a Poster.
Saturday 14th March – Village Halls Week/Mothers day breakfast. Jess to coordinate.
Thanks to Nicky Wakeley for the Orchid talk – turnout of about 15/16 people but received very good feedback all round. Toni suggested doing a follow up in a few months to see improvements in their Orchids.
Future events:talks: Hardy wine talk / gardening talk / Environment talk (Vicky)Coffee and Cake in 28th Feb – for Devon Air Ambulance.  Easter Bingo 28th March 2026 – Commitments made by Toni, Alex, Claire, Jess for the 28th to be present/on the door.
Father’s Day 21st June 2026
11th July – Live Music, Exeter Street Band and BBQ.
Flower and Produce Show 1st August 2026
Gittisham Fete 5th Sept 2026
Bill suggested a Gardeners Question Time. Halloween party for Kids – Jess Hosting.
To be booked Sat 31st October 10-2?
Burns night 2027 – Sat 23rd Jan 2027.  
Nick to book the caller for next year. Claire to book the bagpiper.









All





Jess



All
AOBNone

   MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Rough hierarchy order.
Sewerage and drainage pipe replacement
Air to air heat pump 
Re-fit audio visual capabilities
Rewiring of cabling, particularly in the loft
Extractor fans in kitchen
(Rising) damp in southern elevation
Internal repaint including / especially ceiling
Boxing in the boiler/electrics in the kitchen – Bill
Bin Store
Sound Deadening Clouds/equipment to make it less echo-ey.
Stage Curtains and for the other end of the hall to sound deaden
Taps in the mens toilets and hooks on the doors in toilets.
Murals in the toilets – Maggie/Claire exploring
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026
INCOME9th February 2026EXPENDITURE9th February 2026
2024/2586.0% of 2025/262025/262024/2586.0% of 2025/262025/26
Balance b/fwd£5,571.27Insurance£723.73£622.41£959.73
Non-domestic rates£0.00£0.00£0.00
Hire of Hall£5,828.56£5,012.56£5,313.06Cleaning/grass cutting£1,901.59£1,635.37£832.15
Social Events£5,782.76£4,973.17£7,063.26Maintenance/Equipment£45,022.20£38,719.09£25,145.94
Interest£0.00£0.00Water/Gas/Electric£3,039.75£2,614.19£1,968.15
Miscellaneous£43,476.90£37,390.13£34,768.00Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)£2,457.59£2,113.53£5,496.41
£55,088.22£47,375.87£47,144.32£53,144.86£45,704.58£34,402.38
Balance£18,313.21
Total£52,715.59£52,715.59
Reserves
Redwood Deposit A/C TBC (transfer in progress)£15,169.20£10,185.00 transferred
Amount to be confirmed, including annual interest payment and date
Cash Float £364.30 (previously £990.30)

Village Hall Committee January 2026

by
Date Monday 12th January 2026
Present Stella, Damian, Nick, Claire, Toni, Bill, Jess & Alex
Apologies Maggie
Next meet Next meeting: Monday 9th February 7:30pm – Village Hall
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsNew actions:Painting booked in 19th and 20th Feb for the main hall. Claire Contacted EDDC to follow up about food hygiene inspection once the Kitchen is finished.Stella to continue chasing the Charities commission about the change to our Governance – in Springtime

Formal thank you to be sent to Carla for her amazing support and getting rid of the old kitchen waste for free. Claire sending a card and wine.
Old actions: 

Damian to give Alex permission to negotiate with Eon.
N/A
Claire


Stella

Alex/Damian
Committee members and governance

Devon Communities Together Meeting: Next meeting in Awliscombe on 20th January. Alex will be attending. Claire gave feedback of thanks to the Volunteers of DCT.
Discussed recruiting more Committee Members to help with fundraising events. Claire to put it in the Gazette and Alex to post on Facebook calling for new Committee Members. 
Policies: Stella has redrafted DCT policies – Stella to run through the Health and Safety Policy with the committee and to run through the financial policies with Damian.
Alex
Claire/Alex
All
FinanceDamian: Circulated this month’s report.Damian raised that we need to predict our fundraising target ahead of the year end to aim for break even. Hoping for reduced energy payments to help as it has cost a lot less than last winter (£300 a month down to £100) but it is still close to the line. 
Damian raised that Community Kitchen is no longer funded by our anonymous benefactor and it only just covered the hall hire cost. The subject of Community Kitchen was discussed as we no longer have the grant or the benefactor. All agreed that it is integral for the hall. All agreed as a motion that we will not be charging Community Kitchen for hall hire and making a commitment as a Committee to raise more money to cover the cost of CK. 
The Annual Returns have been submitted with Geraldine Coates. Awaiting notification that Geraldine has actioned this. 
Income/Expenditure, started the year at £5,571.27. Set to complete at circa £5,634. We do need fundraising to keep on track for break even.It was discussed that Alex and Toni will be advertising the hall aggressively once the works are complete and it looks beautiful and finished. To conclude, huge thanks to Damian for his financial management and projections, ideas and concerns raised and for his regular and appreciated hard work as our trusted Treasurer. 
Redwood account is on its was to be shut down and moved to an online-friendly provider. The Committee took a vote on which provider to move to and unanimously decided to proceed with Virgin Money as our new bank for our savings.Insurance has been sorted out – thank you Damian. Full notes on Finance attached below.		Damian
Grants

Alex: To meet with EDDC to report back on the grant application

Alex

MaintenanceFire Assessment: Completed in December and done. Jess as Secretary has the hard copies.
Fire extinguishers have been serviced by Chubb
Cleaning. Some complaints received about the level of cleanliness despite more time being requested from current cleaning arrangements. Agreed to explore other options. Jim? 
Claire raised the gutter at the back and was overspilling when it wasn’t raining heavily. The rear skylight needs to be cleaned. – Russell has a telescopic cleanerA couple of posts have rotted on the rear fence and need replacing. 
We require smaller grills on the outdoor vents. Claire to purchase.
Discussed the plaster work on the wall by the stage – going to get 2 more quotes but keen to cover it for the March wedding booking. To be discussed in February.
Need a hole boxing in in the ceiling of the kitchen. Jess to ask Mike to do it on an hourly rate.





Claire


Claire
BookingsThe committee acknowledged with deep sadness the passing of local ex hall committee member Doris and the contribution she made to the running of the hall and local village life. All agreed should the family wish to use the hall for her wake we would be delighted to offer the hall FOC.
We need to make sure that hirers clean up after themselves, perhaps we can make up a checklist that they run through but we could reserve the right to get a professional cleaner if a booking left the hall in a poor state.Stella to liaise with Gary
Advertising for the Hall needs to restart to boost our bookings once the Hall is picture ready and get more details for wedding vendors (catering/florists/entertainment) to be able to put together. Discussed putting a launch article in the midweek herald. Jess/Toni/Alex to launch Instagram and create a longer term marketing strategy.

We have sadly lost our regular booking of Marjorie Madge as she has now retired – and thank her for her years of custom. We do have a new regular booking that will replace the income we’ve lost.  Stella requested that all bookings please come directly through her to keep things simple.




Stella






Jess/Toni/Alex







All
Future eventsBurns night 24th Jan: Caller is booked for Burns night. Nick has been organising. Toni to make a poster. Nick to provide details of the event to Toni. Last year we charged £8 per head. |We agree to charge £10 this time. BYOB. Alex, Claire, Bill, Nick will be on hand to help.Coffee and Cake on the 31st Jan – Gary and AlexTalks in Feb– Orchids by Nicky Wakeley (6th Feb) and Environmental (Vicky) (27th Feb). Nick to coordinate. Toni to prepare postersKitchen launch party: Evening Drinks on Friday 20th February, to invite the village and all the contractors to celebrate our new kitchen. Toni to make a poster/invitation please. Easter Bingo 28th March 2026 – Commitments made by Toni, Alex, Claire, Jess, Nick to be present/on the door.
Potential future events:SkittlesAutumn talks: Hardy wine talk / gardening talk / glass/– Maggie asking Nic. / Father’s Day 21st June 2026Flower and Produce Show 1st August 2026Gittisham Fete 5th Sept 2026Bill suggested a Gardeners Question Time. 
Toni/Alex to look at targeting local gardening groups for the feb talks. Maybe make personalised invitations. Also investigate Honiton U3A
Last year we agreed the church could have 3 days free for the flower show and harvest festival – majority agreed to do the same again. 
Discussed getting a full bar licence instead of the short term ones we currently do to appeal to more potential customers. 

NickToni
Gary/AlexNick


All














Toni
AOBNone

   MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Rough hierarchy order.
Sewerage and drainage pipe replacement
Air to air heat pump 
Re-fit audio visual capabilities
Rewiring of cabling, particularly in the loft
Extractor fans in kitchen
(Rising) damp in southern elevation
Internal repaint including / especially ceiling
Boxing in the boiler/electrics in the kitchen – Bill
Bin Store
Sound Deadening Clouds/equipment to make it less echo-ey.
Stage Curtains and for the other end of the hall to sound deaden
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026
INCOME11th January 2026EXPENDITURE11th January 2026
2024/2580.5% of 2025/262025/262024/2580.5% of 2025/262025/26
Balance b/fwd£5,571.27Insurance£723.73£582.60£959.73
Non-domestic rates£0.00£0.00£0.00
Hire of Hall£5,828.56£4,691.99£4,361.06Cleaning/grass cutting£1,901.59£1,530.78£832.15
Social Events£5,782.76£4,655.12£6,607.10Maintenance/Equipment£45,022.20£40,745.09£23,855.90
Interest£0.00£0.00Water/Gas/Electric£3,039.75£2,447.00£1,689.19
Miscellaneous£43,476.90£34,998.90£33,768.00Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)£2,457.59£1,978.36£5,151.18
£55,088.22£44,346.02£44,736.16£53,144.86£47,283.83£32,488.15
Balance£17,819.28
Total£50,307.43£50,307.43
Reserves
Redwood Deposit A/C TBC (awaiting access)£15,169.20£10,185.00 transferred
Amount to be confirmed, including annual interest payment and date
Cash Float £90.30 (previously £990.30)£4,257.05

Gittisham Parish Council Local Plan Submission

by

EDDC LOCAL PLAN 2nd REG 19 CONSULTATION

SUBMISSION BY GITTISHAM PC

This is the submission that was made on behalf of Gittisham Parish Council.

The consultation period has now expired.

“The Gittisham Parish Council has consistently challenged the allocation of land for residential and industrial development on land to the west of Hayne Lane. The GPC have submitted as part of the 1St  Reg19 consultation a wide range of objections to the allocations Gitti-03/04 and 05.

The lack of detailed and robust infrastructure and viability assessments  to support the delivery of proposed allocations has been an area of concern which has been previously raised by Gittisham Parish Council directly with EDDC. It is clear that sustainability has been sacrificed in order to meet housing and employment targets.

The additional evidence now provided as part of the 2nd Reg 19 Consultation raises additional concerns regarding the allocation of residential and industrial land in unsustainable locations.

It is also noted that an updated East devon Local Plan Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP) has been submitted as additional evidence as part of 2nd Reg 19 consultation. 

The opening comments within that document state:

Infrastructure delivery is fundamental to supporting sustainable development. Strategic and well-planned infrastructure ensures that new developments contribute positively to community needs and objectives. Developments lacking appropriate infrastructure risk being suboptimal or unacceptable and may result in environmental harm. Comprehensively understanding infrastructure requirements and establishing robust delivery mechanisms is crucial for substantiating the Local Plan, informing planning documents, guiding Community Infrastructure Levy allocations, and supporting broader council initiatives.

It is against the background of this statement together with the additional evidence to be found in the Waste Cycle Study Nov 2025 (additional evidence to support 2nd Reg 19 Consultation) that Gittisham Parish Council wish to reaffirm in this 2nd Reg 19 Consultation the objections previously made to the proposed allocations Gitti-03/04/05, and to submit that Honiton is not a sustainable location for the level of residential and industrial development being promoted.

Prior to the publication of the Water Cycle Study (WCS) the Environment Agency (EA) in response to the EDDC Sustainability Appraisal (Feb 2025 page 77) expressed concerns about the Sustainability Appraisals “limited focus” on “….sewage capacity”. They also advised policies (in the new Local Plan) should “require proof of sewage infrastructure adequacy prior to any development approval” and also that “policies must explicitly tie development phasing to infrastructure delivery”. These concerns have now been confirmed.

It is submitted that the findings contained within the Water Cycle Study together with the concerns of the EA, seriously undermine the likelihood of the Honiton allocations coming forward within the plan period. Looking in detail at the Water Cycle Study the current waste discharges into the River Otter at Honiton are significantly exceeding capacity and, that to meet the requirements resulting from the housing allocations alone at Honiton (including Gitti-05) would require an increase in capacity at the Honiton STW  of 73%. That capacity would also have to be increased further as a result of the 15 ha industrial allocation at Gitti-03/04.

It is notable that there is an absence of any SWW investment programme to provide any improvements at the Honiton STW. The level of investment required to address existing and future demands cannot be financed from developer contributions alone. Given the current and projected capacity issues at this STW together with the absence of any investment strategy by SWW, and in parallel with other known existing infrastructure deficiencies, it is submitted that Honiton cannot be regarded as a sustainable location for the scale of development that the Local Plan is promoting.

Although the IDP and WCS are not part of the emerging Local Plan the IDP is “crucial for substantiating the Local Plan” (IDP para 1.2). Given its shortcomings the IDP clearly fails to perform this “crucial” task and, consequently challenges the soundness of the Local Plan.

In the absence of there being a clear and robust viability assessment for each of the major Honiton allocations and particularly those allocations Gitti-03/04/05, and in the light of the new evidence, in particular the IDP and WCS, forming part of the 2nd Reg 19 Consultation, the Gittisham Parish Council continues to raise its objections to the continuing allocations of Gitti-03/04/05 for employment and housing purposes and to object in general to Strategic Policy SD03 : Honiton and its development allocations, as the evidence supports the opinion that Honiton is not a sustainable location for the scale of development proposed.”

Cllr David Valentine

February 2026

Welcome Pack for New Residents

by

Compiled by Councillor Pester, Gittisham Parish Council is delighted to release this welcome guide for new residents. We hope this helps you settle into our wonderful parish! If you would like a physical copy, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Welcome Pack

Village Hall Committee November 2025

by
Date Monday 10th November 2025
Present Stella, Claire, Damian, Maggie & Alex
Apologies Nick, Toni, Jess and Bill
Next meet Next meeting: Monday 8th December 7:30pm – Village Hall
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsNew actions:Kitchen Refurb – Kitchen has been ordered, Stella made some small adjustments £16,261.20 is the total cost excluding building works.Deposit to be paid when invoice is received Stella is liaising with builders to get quotes for the building works and obtaining dates for kitchen delivery and how we minimise disruption to hirers.Thanks to Bill & Gary for their work in boxing in the Boiler and Consumer units.New Freezer has been purchased – delivery date tbc 
Thanks to Stuart for painting the kitchen ceiling more coats to take place soon, the committee discussed painting the main hall.

Claire Contacted EDDC to follow up about food hygiene inspectionStella to continue chasing the Charities commission about the change to our Governance 
Old actions: 

Damian to give Alex permission to negotiate with Eon.Claire raised that we expect an inspection to be booked fairly soon regarding the Food H&S Standards. Likely to be in Q3/Q4 2025 – Ongoing

StellaDamianStella
Claire 
AllClaire


AlexDamianClaire
Committee members and governance

DCT Meeting: Next meeting in Awliscombe in January 
DCT VCSE Meeting:  Claire was invited to give feedback to DCT about their help and support.

Policies: Stella has redrafted DCT policies – Stella to run through the Health and Safety Policy with the committee and to run through the financial policies with Damian 

Stella

All
FinanceDamian: Circulated this month’s report.Highlights: Received monies from the Lottery Grant £20,000There has been a transfer of 10,185 from the Redwood account. There are still 15,169.20 in the Redwood.There is a good balance for the Kitchen works but any costs over £23,000 may push us into a loss for the financial year.Open Mic made a small profitInsurance is yet to be paid – Damian to contact Cleaning and Grass cutting is lower this year around which is good. It is difficult to bank the cash as there are limited HSBC banks open these days. Damian to order a bank card for paying- in purposes only.Income includes income from the sponsorship towards the Christmas Bonanza.  
Damain will catch up on his pending actions, and will bring a proposal on bank accounts to the next meeting.Damian to complete the Annual report for the charities commission. Claire asked if the Cleaning time could be expanded 		Damian
GrantsLottery Grant was successful, treasurer and committee to look into the terms and conditions. Quotations are being put together, Damian would like to be contacted if it’s over £20,000

Alex: To meet with EDDC to report back on the grant application
Damian


Alex

MaintenanceFire Assessment: from Chubb would be £500 so Claire found another company that would complete one at a lower price – £280 The whole committee agreed for it to go ahead and the inspection takes place in December.
Fire extinguishers have been serviced by Chubb
Claire raised the gutter at the back and was overspilling when it wasn’t raining heavily. The rear skylight needs to be cleaned. – Russell has a telescopic cleanerA couple of posts have rotted on the rear fence and need replacing. 
We require smaller grills on the outdoor vents. Claire to purchase.


All


AlexClaire


Claire
BookingsWe need to make sure that hirers clean up after themselves, perhaps we can make up a checklist that they run through but we could reserve the right to get a professional cleaner if a booking left the hall in a poor state.Stella to liaise with Gary
Advertising for the Hall needs to restart to boost our bookings.
Some of the hiring prices from Hall master had some anomalies so this has been rectified. 
The Halloween party had great feedback and it was great to have a children’s aimed event. We would like this to be a blueprint for next year.


Stella


Alex/Toni
Stella
Future events
29th November Bingo booked – Xmas crafts in the morning, Xmas cake sale in the afternoon followed by bingo.Some fantastic sponsors arranged by Claire Assistance is needed to Decorate on Friday 28th. Alex to ask Gary about helping with Coffee and Cake?Alcohol free mauled wine Helpers in the Kitchen to be requestedClaire has asked for support or someone to take on Easter Bingo.It was agreed to sell raffle tickets beforehand as long as there is a nominated person to receive their price on the night. All confirmed.
Monday 8th December – Committee Christmas Meal (instead of the December Meeting).Bike Talk – Hamish potentially to give one in the futureNew Years Eve – Community Kitchen plus music 

Potential future events:Skittles?Autumn talks: Hardy wine talk / gardening talk / glass/Orchid talk – Maggie asking Nic. / Environment talk (Vicky) 
Burns Night 24th January 2026Kitchen Warming EventEaster Bingo 28th March 2026Father’s Day 21st June 2026Flower and Produce Show 1st August 2026Gittisham Fete 5th Sept 2026


All
AOBNone

   MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Rough hierarchy order.
Sewerage and drainage pipe replacement
Air to air heat pump 
Re-fit audio visual capabilities
Rewiring of cabling, particularly in the loft
Extractor fans in kitchen
(Rising) damp in southern elevation
Internal repaint including / especially ceiling
Boxing in the boiler/electrics in the kitchen – Bill
Bin Store

Gittisham Gazette January 2026

by
What’s On
at the Village Hall  
Happy New Year Gittisham!

24th Jan Burns Night. 7pm.
£10 BYOB.
Do book tickets as this
event always sells out!

31st Jan Coffee and Cake
2.30 – 4.30pm.  
We look forward to welcoming
you to this much-loved event!
Cakes and bakes always
gratefully received,
and we are happy to
reimburse costs.

6th Feb. 7pm Evening Talk
by Nic Wakely on the Wonderful
world of Orchids. £3 to include refreshments.

20th Feb. 7pm Kitchen
warming evening..
details to follow

28th March. 7pm.
Easter Bingo
21st June Fathers Day BBQ
1st August
Flower & Produce Show
5th Sept
Gittisham Village Fete

Weekly
Folk Dancing Weds evenings
Community Kitchen Thurs eve
Yoga Friday afternoons                                                                       Church 200 Club December
Draw Results  
1st A Valentine
2nd J Barrett
3rd M Tawse  

The christmas draw winner  
B Garrood  

Natter and Nibbles at
Gittisham Farm
February 14th 10-12 Raffle,
memorabilia of Gittisham and refreshments.
All funds towards our church.  

Holy Dusters Needed
Can you spare
a little time at
your convenience?
Cleaning products are in the
church by the vestry door.
Thank you.    		  As we look ahead to the new year, we’re excited to say that the village hall calendar is already bursting with plans! We have a fantastic mix of events lined up, including quizzes, interesting talks, bingo nights, live music, and plenty more besides — there’s something for everyone, and probably a few surprises along the way too. The hall upgrades are steaming ahead with the final flourishes being added to the brand new shiny kitchen. Work has been steadily progressing over the Christmas period and we are grateful to the local tradespeople for so kindly rolling with the hiccups, and keeping the project on time and reducing the impact to our regular hall bookings. To celebrate, we’re planning a kitchen warming event and would love for you to come along, see the transformation, and enjoy the results of the support that has made it all possible.

Towards the end of the month the actual hall will enjoy a refresh thanks to the generous support of an amazing team of brush wielding painting volunteers. We are all excited to see the hall glowing again! Behind the scenes, we’re a fun, kind and very friendly committee who genuinely enjoy working together to keep the hall buzzing. We’re always happy to welcome new committee members, whether you have lots of ideas, a little time, or just a willingness to get involved. There’s absolutely no pressure to do more than you’re able — every contribution helps — and it’s a great way to engage with the community, meet new people, and build lasting friendships (tea and biscuits are usually involved). gittishamvillagehall@gmail.com

 

PARISH COUNCIL – DEC 25 / JAN 26 REPORT

Four councillors met for the December meeting along with Alasdair Bruce (EDDC) and Richard Jefferies (DCC). Seven met for the January meeting, along with one member of the public, PCSO Darren England & Sgt Jenny Palmer.

Police visit. The police explained how crimes are recorded, in response to concern from councillors that there appeared to be a rise in the amount of crimes categorised as violence and sexual offences. Sgt Palmer said that Devon & Cornwall Police have changed how they report crimes, and often sexual offences are reported a long time after they happen – sometimes years later – because victims are reluctant to come forward. PCSO England added that the large increase in properties in the parish would unfortunately bring with it a rise in incidents, so the growth in the crime figures was to be expected. The officers provided advice on how to secure sheds and recommended getting the serial numbers of items such as power tools and bikes recorded. They suggested visiting the website www.securedbydesign.com for further information. They also cautioned against leaving keyless entry for a car near the front door, as criminals have methods of picking up the signal and stealing the vehicle.

Crimes.

September 2025: Meadow Acre: 1 x violence & sexual offences, Hedge Field Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences, Hamett Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences, Laburnum Close: 1 x other theft

October 2025: Meadow Acre: 1 x violence & sexual offences, Parsonage Lane: 1 x anti-social behaviour, Nether Close: 1 x public order, Aspen Close: 1 x anti-social behavior

November 2025: Beech Walk, 1 x criminal damage and arson, Hodges Close, 1 x drugs, 1 x violence & sexual offences, Nags Head Road, 1 x violence & sexual offences

Donations. Members agreed to donate money to Force, Diabetes UK, TRIP, Citizens Advice and Hospiscare.

Finance. Members agreed the budget for 2026/27 and the parish precept was increased by 2 per cent to £11,145.79.

Planning applications.

a) 25/2524/FUL – Shermans Farm Gittisham EX14 3AU- Covered FYM store

b) 25/2570/PDQ – Stockers Gittisham EX14 3AN – Prior approval (class Q) for change of use from agricultural building to 2no. dwelling houses (use class C3)

Councillors resolved to have no objections to either application.

Road closures. 16-21 March Exeter Road west of Sidmouth Road: overnight closure for patching, lining and cleaning.

Flooding. Alex Rowe said he had met EDDC’s Engineering Projects Manager for a productive walk of the village watercourse to identify problem areas and discuss possible solutions.

Chair’s resignation. Carol Hall said she would not be standing for re-election as Chair in May 2026, and would be resigning from the parish council from that date.

EDDC Local Plan. Councillors discussed likely scenarios, should East Devon’s Local Plan be found to be unsound at the enquiry in public. Having taken advice from a planning consultant on behalf of the parish council, David Valentine said it would be ok to continue with GPC’s objections to the land allocations. (There had been concern that any challenge to the plan, if the enquiry inspector was supportive and the Local Plan fails at the enquiry stage, will essentially give an open door to developers.)

Hayne Farm. Andrea Rye said EDDC would be visiting the development to understand whether or not

the wildlife planning obligations are being met.

Next meeting. 5th February 2026 at 7.30pm in the parish room.

You can see the full parish council minutes on the Gittisham website, along with other information about the parish. www.gittisham.org.uk

Gittisham Village Hall Report 2025

by


As this year draws to a close we wanted to reflect on the extraordinary year it has been!

Over the past 12 months, our village hall has been quietly building sustainability and whole

community engagement, having had some success with grant applications with both Devon

County Council and the National Lottery. We’ve gone greener with solar panels, warmer with

full window replacements to double-glazed units and loft insulation, and safer with new secure

doors. Inside, the toilets have enjoyed a refresh with a fresh coat of paint and shiny new hand

dryers, while behind the scenes a commercial fridge is already in place, and a freezer is on its

way (cool news indeed). Outside, the garden has had a glow-up too, with new shrubs,

colourful perennials and over 1,000 bulbs planted—expect a springtime showstopper. We have

also added some new benches, one that will accommodated users in wheelchairs. We’re also

part-way through installing a brand-new commercial kitchen, due to be finished early in the

new year. And we’re not stopping there: plans are already lined up to carry this great work

into 2026, with painters ready to give the main hall itself a fresh new look.

It’s been a truly buzzing year on the social front, with a packed programme of events that

were all enthusiastically supported (thank you for keeping the kettle permanently busy).

Burns Night was a sell-out, the much-anticipated Cabaret more than lived up to expectations,

and Easter Bingo proved that competitive instincts don’t take holidays. We fired up the grills

for a fabulous Father’s Day BBQ, enjoyed an exciting live music event, shortly followed by

our own Open Mic night, and welcomed well-attended evening talks from local speakers. The

Village Fete drew visitors from far and wide—and quite possibly set a hall record for cups of

tea served in one afternoon. Add in quizzes for the fiercely competitive and the cheerfully

clueless, our much-loved coffee and cake afternoons, a lively Christmas Bingo, and a

wonderfully supported Christmas Craft Fair for local makers: it’s fair to say the hall has

been full of laughter, conversation, and community spirit all year long.

Alongside our packed calendar of organised social events, the Parish Hall has continued to be

a popular choice for private hire, playing host to family parties, pop up restaurants, milestone

celebrations and last year, 3 glorious weddings!

It’s wonderful to see the hall so well used -clearly its not just a building, it is where the

community choose to come together to celebrate

We would like to extend a huge thank you to our wonderful local community for the

continued support throughout the year, including the local business community who have

gifted many items making these projects possible. From turning up in great numbers to our

events, to lending a hand setting them up and clearing away and helping with the ongoing

improvement works at the hall, your time, energy and enthusiasm make everything possible.

The village hall truly thrives because of the people who use it, support it and care about it –

and we couldn’t do it with you!

We’re already busy behind the scenes putting together a fun-filled programme of events for

the year ahead. Much-loved favourites will be making a welcome return, alongside some

exciting new ideas that we can’t wait to share with you. It’s shaping up to be another great

year at the village hall, with something for everyone – so keep an eye out for dates, dust off

your diary, and get ready to join in the fun!