Alex

Equal Opportunities Policy

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Gittisham Parish Hall – Equality Opportunities Policy

The Gittisham Parish Hall Committee acknowledges that the United Kingdom is diverse in culture, race beliefs and religion and believes that no individual or group of people should receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, colour, race, nationality, racial or national origins, cultural heritage, disability, marital status, social background, sexual orientation or geographical location.  The committee acknowledges that members of these groups are often under-represented, exposed to prejudice and stereotyping, and suffer various disadvantages within our society.

Purpose 

The purpose of this statement is to set out clearly and fully the positive action that Gittisham Parish Hall Committee intends to take to combat direct and indirect discrimination in employment policy, management of the organisation, relationships with other bodies, and the services it provides to the community, community organisations and individuals.

Gittisham Parish Hall Committee is committed to providing equality of opportunity in all areas of its work. It aims to overcome discrimination on the grounds mentioned above. 

The Equal Opportunities Policy will be implemented ensuring equality of provision in representation, service provision, appointment of staff and their conditions of service and access.

 The Aims of the Committee

Our aims are to ensure that all hirers and volunteers are given equal opportunity and that our organisation is representative of our society. We will also ensure that we become aware of discrimination and the problem it causes.

Gittisham Parish Hall Committee will challenge practices, legislation and institutions, which seek to discriminate against or deny the rights of individuals or groups in any form.

Gittisham Parish Hall Committee will seek to take positive action to address the inequalities in our society.

Gittisham Parish Hall Committee is committed to the equal opportunities policy set out in this document and will work to develop, improve and monitor it.

The Equal Opportunities Policy and Code of Practice

Gittisham Parish Hall Committee acknowledges the definitions of various groups of people who are vulnerable to discrimination as set out in the Equality Act 2010. 

The committee will support and implement the legislation and will work to ensure that no person protected by the legislation is discriminated against unlawfully, and that any positive obligations and duties are performed.

 The committee gives the following specific commitments.

The Gittisham Parish Hall Committee will:

 • where reasonably practical widen accessibility by removing barriers which make it difficult for people with disabilities to use the hall.

 • provide facilities for people with disabilities to enable them to participate in activities e.g. the installation of an induction loop.

 • ensure that the design of publicity and information take account of the needs of people with disabilities e.g. language used, print size.

 • deal with any complaints of discrimination promptly, impartially, thoroughly and confidentially.

 • ensure all staff, hirers and committee members are aware of the hall’s policy on equality.

 • ensure that the equal opportunities policy is monitored and reviewed annually.

 • challenge racism in any form and encourage its users to do the same.

 • challenge sexist policies, practices and attitudes (including policies, practices and attitudes which may relate to sexual orientation and gender re-assignment) and encourage users to do the same.

 • challenge age discrimination in policies, procedures and attitudes

 • endorse the right of each individual to his or her own religious belief or the absence of a belief.

 • encourage people from under-represented groups to attend and participate in the activities of the hall.

 The Code of Conduct

1. People will be treated with dignity and respect regardless of the group to which they belong.

2. People’s feelings and views will be valued and respected.  Language or humour that people find offensive will not be used or tolerated, e.g. racist jokes or derogatory terminology.

 3. No one will be harassed, abused or intimidated on the grounds that they belong to a vulnerable group. Incidents of harassment will be taken seriously and the committee will undertake investigations of any complaints quickly, impartially, thoroughly and confidentially.

Environmental Policy

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Gittisham Parish Hall – Environmental  Policy 

Gittisham Parish Hall (GPH) committee is committed to protecting and actively promoting the improvement of the local environment.

GPH committee will ensure that environmental priorities are integrated into the decisions it takes on all its services and will seek to:

  1. Make the most efficient use of energy.  It will endeavour to use the minimum quantities of energy possible in accordance with the safe and efficient operation of its heating, lighting, plant, and machinery.  It will from time to time review its energy sources, energy using appliances and energy efficiency with a view to causing the least environmental impact.  It will monitor consumption and eliminate excessive or unnecessary use.  It will encourage hall users, volunteers and staff to use and operate the building correctly to conserve energy, and communicate to them how they can do this e.g. closing doors.
  1. Encourage hall users, volunteers and staff to walk, cycle and use public or communal transport as alternatives to the private car.  It will seek to provide safe cycle/buggy storage and information about public transport on publicity materials.
  1. Minimise and where possible eliminate all forms of pollution, using biodegradable chemicals where possible, and minimising use of solvents and lead-based paints.  Hall users, volunteers, and staff will be encouraged to avoid creating noise and light pollution, especially at night.
  1. Use the minimum quantities of water possible in accordance with its activities and ensure that the water it uses is both supplied and disposed of, in the purest condition possible, meeting statutory requirements.  It will reduce leakage and eliminate excessive or unnecessary use, e.g. through avoiding unnecessary flushing of urinals when the hall is not in use.  It will communicate to hall users, volunteers, and staff the need to conserve water e.g. turning taps off after use.
  1. Avoid waste and encourage the appropriate conservation, re-use, and recycling of resources.  It will re-use and recycle materials as far as possible and, if this is impractical, disposal by a means which will have the least impact on the environment and conforms to statutory requirements.  It will encourage hall users, volunteers, and staff to minimise waste, including the provision of separate disposal facilities for recycling glass, plastic, tins, and cardboard/paper.
  1. Avoid the use of single use plastics at the hall and ensure the ban and restrictions on certain items provided by the hall is met. It will encourage hall users, volunteers, and staff to think about the resources they use and avoid single use plastics and food waste.
  1. Promote a sense of responsibility and understanding for the environment and participation in environmental issues, by raising awareness of hall users, volunteers, and staff, by information provision and open consultation with the local community.
  1. Ensure that the potential environmental impact of any building projects will be assessed and minimised.  This will include, where possible, methods of construction which make best use of resources; designs which result in low maintenance and high energy efficiency; and the use of building materials from sustainable sources such as timber.
  1. Seek, where possible, to purchase from local or regional suppliers, to maximise input to the local community and minimise carbon emissions from transport.
  1. Work to enhance its outside space where feasible to improve biodiversity e.g. planting trees/flowers/shrubs to provide pollen/berries/fruit for wildlife; providing bird boxes/hedging for nesting birds; giving a small area over to run wild; and log piles for bugs.
  1. Protect the health and well-being of all hall users, volunteers and staff and improve and safeguard the quality of Gittisham Parish Hall.
  1. Monitor, review and where possible improve performance each year with positive action on any areas of non-compliance.

Data Protection Policy and Procedures

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Gittisham Parish Hall – 

Data Protection Policy and Procedures

Introduction 

We are committed to a policy of protecting the rights and privacy of individuals. We need to collect and use certain types of Data in order to carry on our work of managing Gittisham Parish Hall (GPH). This personal information must be collected and handled securely.  

The Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) and General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) govern the use of information about people (personal data). Personal data can be held on computers, laptops and mobile devices, or in a manual file, and includes email, minutes of meetings, and photographs. 

The charity will remain the data controller for the information held. The trustees, staff and volunteers are personally responsible for processing and using personal information in accordance with the Data Protection Act and GDPR. Trustees, staff and volunteers who have access to personal information will therefore be expected to read and comply with this policy. 

Purpose 

The purpose of this policy is to set out the GPH commitment and procedures for protecting personal data. Trustees regard the lawful and correct treatment of personal information as very important to successful working, and to maintaining the confidence of those with whom we deal with. We recognise the risks to individuals of identity theft and financial loss if personal data is lost or stolen. 

The following are definitions of the terms used: 

Data Controller – the trustees who collectively decide what personal information GPH will hold and how it will be held or used. 

Act means the Data Protection Act 1998 and General Data Protection Regulations – the legislation that requires responsible behaviour by those using personal information. 

Data Protection Officer (DPO)– the person responsible for ensuring that GPH follows its data protection policy and complies with the Act. [Gitisham Parish Hall is not required to appoint a DPO]. 

Data Subject – the individual whose personal information is being held or processed by Gittisham Parish Hall for example a donor or hirer

‘Explicit’ consent – is a freely given, specific agreement by a Data Subject to the processing of personal information about her/him. 

Explicit consent is needed for processing “sensitive data”, which includes: 

(a) Racial or ethnic origin of the data subject 

(b) Political opinions 

(c) Religious beliefs or other beliefs of a similar nature 

(d) Trade union membership 

(e) Physical or mental health or condition 

(f)  Sexual orientation 

(g) Criminal record 

(h) Proceedings for any offence committed or alleged to have been committed 

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – the ICO is responsible for implementing and overseeing the Data Protection Act 1998. 

Processing – means collecting, amending, handling, storing or disclosing personal information. 

Personal Information – information about living individuals that enables them to be identified – e.g. names, addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses. It does not apply to information about organisations, companies and agencies but applies to named persons, such as individual volunteers. 

The Data Protection Act

This contains 8 principles for processing personal data with which we must comply. 

Personal data: 

1. Shall be processed fairly and lawfully and, in particular, shall not be processed unless specific conditions are met, 

2. Shall be obtained only for one or more of the purposes specified in the Act, and shall not be processed in any manner incompatible with that purpose or those purposes, 

3. Shall be adequate, relevant and not excessive in relation to those purpose(s), 

4. Shall be accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date, 

5. Shall not be kept for longer than is necessary, 

6. Shall be processed in accordance with the rights of data subjects under the Act, 

7. Shall be kept secure by the Data Controller who takes appropriate technical and other measures to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing or accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal information, 

8. Shall not be transferred to a country or territory outside the European Economic Area unless that country or territory ensures an adequate level of protection for the rights and freedoms of data subjects in relation to the processing of personal information. 

Applying the Data Protection Act within the charity 

We will let people know why we are collecting their data, which is for the purpose of managing Gittisham Parish Hall, its hirings and finances. It is our responsibility to ensure the data is only used for this purpose. Access to personal information will be limited to trustees, staff and volunteers.

Correcting data 

Individuals have a right to make a Subject Access Request (SAR) to find out whether the charity holds their personal data, where, what it is used for and to have data corrected if it is wrong, to prevent use which is causing them damage or distress, or to stop marketing information being sent to them. Any SAR must be dealt with within 30 days. Steps must first be taken to confirm the identity of the individual before providing information, requiring both photo identification e.g. passport and confirmation of address e.g. recent utility bill, bank or credit card statement. 

Responsibilities 

Gittisham Parish Hall is the Data Controller under the Act, and is legally responsible for complying with Act, which means that it determines what purposes personal information held will be used for. 

The management committee will take into account legal requirements and ensure that it is properly implemented, and will through appropriate management, strict application of criteria and controls: 

a) Collection and use information fairly. 

b) Specify the purposes for which information is used. 

c) Collect and process appropriate information, and only to the extent that it is needed to fulfil its operational needs or to comply with any legal requirements. 

d) Ensure the quality of information used. 

e) Ensure the rights of people about whom information is held, can be exercised under the Act. These include: 

i) The right to be informed that processing is undertaken.

ii) The right of access to one’s personal information. 

iii) The right to prevent processing in certain circumstances, and 

iv) the right to correct, rectify, block or erase information which is regarded as wrong information.

f) Take appropriate technical and organisational security measures to safeguard personal information, 

g) Ensure that personal information is not transferred abroad without suitable safeguards, 

h) Treat people justly and fairly whatever their age, religion, disability, gender, sexual orientation or ethnicity when dealing with requests for information, 

i) Set out clear procedures for responding to requests for information. 

All trustees, staff and volunteers are aware that a breach of the rules and procedures identified in this policy may lead to action being taken against them. 

[If appointed]: The Data Protection Officer on the management committee is: 

Name ______________________________________ 

Contact Details ______________________________ 

The Data Protection Officer will be responsible for ensuring that the policy is implemented and will have overall responsibility for: 

  1. a) Everyone processing personal information understands that they are 
  2. contractually responsible for following good data protection practice 
  3. b) Everyone processing personal information is appropriately trained to do 
  4. so 
  5. c) Everyone processing personal information is appropriately supervised 
  6. d) Anybody wanting to make enquiries about handling personal 
  7. information knows what to do 
  8. e) Dealing promptly and courteously with any enquiries about handling 
  9. personal information 

f) Describe clearly how the charity handles personal information 

g) Will regularly review and audit the ways it holds, manages and uses 

personal information 

h) Will regularly assess and evaluate its methods and performance in 

relation to handling personal information. 

This policy will be updated as necessary to reflect best practice in data management, security and control and to ensure compliance with any changes or amendments made to the Data Protection Act 1998. 

In case of any queries or questions in relation to this policy please contact [the Data Protection Officer]. 

Procedures for Handling Data & Data Security 

GPH has a duty to ensure that appropriate technical and organisational measures and training are taken to prevent: 

• unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data 

• unauthorised disclosure of personal data 

• accidental loss of personal data 

All trustees, staff and volunteers must therefore ensure that personal data is dealt with properly no matter how it is collected, recorded or used. This applies whether or not the information is held on paper, in a computer or recorded by some other means e.g. tablet or mobile phone). 

Personal data relates to data of living individuals who can be identified from that data and use of that data could cause an individual damage or distress. This does not mean that mentioning someone’s name in a document comprises personal data; however, combining various data elements such as a person’s name and salary or religious beliefs etc. would be classed as personal data, and falls within the scope of the DPA.  It is therefore important that all staff consider any information (which is not otherwise in the public domain) that can be used to identify an individual as personal data and observe the guidance given below. 

Privacy Notice and Consent Policy

The private notice and consent policy are as follows:

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Consent forms will be stored by the Secretary in a securely held electronic or paper file.

Operational Guidance

Email: 

All trustees, staff and volunteers should consider whether an email (both incoming and outgoing) will need to be kept as an official record. If the email needs to be retained it should be saved into the appropriate folder or printed and stored securely. 

Remember, emails that contain personal information no longer required for operational use, should be deleted from the personal mailbox and any “deleted items” box. 

Copies of emails should be sent as BCC, thus protecting data.

Phone Calls: 

Phone calls can lead to unauthorised use or disclosure of personal information and 

the following precautions should be taken: 

  • Personal information should not be given out over the telephone unless you have no doubts as the caller’s identity and the information requested is innocuous.
  •  If you have any doubts, ask the caller to put their enquiry in writing. 
  • If you receive a phone call asking for personal information to be checked or confirmed be aware that the call may come from someone impersonating someone with a right of access.

Laptops and Portable Devices: 

  • All laptops and portable devices that hold data containing personal information must be protected with a suitable encryption program (password). 
  • Ensure your laptop is locked (password protected) when left unattended, even for short periods of time. 
  • When travelling in a car, make sure the laptop is out of sight, preferably in the boot. 
  • If you have to leave your laptop in an unattended vehicle at any time, put it in the boot and ensure all doors are locked and any alarm set. 
  • Never leave laptops or portable devices in your vehicle overnight. 
  • Do not leave laptops or portable devices unattended in restaurants or bars, or any other venue. 
  • When travelling on public transport, keep it with you at all times, do not leave it in luggage racks or even on the floor alongside you. 

Data Security and Storage: 

  • Store as little personal data as possible on your computer or laptop; only keep those files that are essential. 
  • Personal data received on disk or memory stick should be saved to the relevant file on the server or laptop. The disk or memory stick should then be securely returned (if applicable), safely stored or wiped and securely disposed of. 
  • Always lock (password protect) your computer or laptop when left unattended.  

Passwords: 

Do not use passwords that are easy to guess. All your passwords should contain 

both upper and lower-case letters and preferably contain some numbers. Ideally 

passwords should be 6 characters or more in length. 

Protect Your Password: 

• Common sense rules for passwords are: do not give out your password 

• do not write your password somewhere on your laptop 

• do not keep it written on something stored in the laptop case 

Data Storage 

  • Personal data will be stored securely and will only be accessible to authorised volunteers or staff. 
  • Information will be stored for only as long as it is needed or required by statute and will be disposed of appropriately.  
  • For financial records this will be up to 7 years. 
  • For employee records see below.  
  • Archival material such as minutes and legal documents will be stored indefinitely. Other
  • Correspondence and emails will be disposed of when no longer required or when trustees, staff or volunteers retire.

All personal data held for the organisation must be non-recoverable from any computer which has been passed on/sold to a third party. 

Information Regarding Employees or Former Employees 

Information regarding an employee or a former employee, will be kept indefinitely. If something occurs years later it might be necessary to refer back to a job application or other document to check what was disclosed earlier, in order that trustees comply with their obligations eg regarding employment law, taxation, pensions or insurance. 

Accident Book

This will be checked regularly. Any page which has been completed will be removed, appropriate action taken and the page filed securely.

Photos

Gittisham Parish Hall may use general photographs of events with groups of adults at the hall for publicity purposes in accordance with its lawful basis for using personal data. 

  • Photos of children must not be used without the written consent of the parent or guardian. 

However, Gittisham Parish Hall is aware that for some individuals publicising their location could place them or their families at risk.

  • Consequently, at large events at which publicity photos may be taken a notice should be posted at the entrance, or an announcement made, providing opportunity for people to refuse taking part in publicity photographs. 
  • At small events the consent of individuals (verbal) should be obtained if their image will be clearly identifiable. Hirers are encouraged to comply with this policy. 

Data Subject Access Requests 

We may occasionally need to share data with other agencies such as the local authority, funding bodies and other voluntary agencies in circumstances which are not in furtherance of the management of the charity. The circumstances where the law allows the charity to disclose data (including sensitive data) without the data subject’s consent are: 

a) Carrying out a legal duty or as authorised by the Secretary of State Protecting vital interests of a Data Subject or other person (eg child protection)

b) The Data Subject has already made the information public 

c) Conducting any legal proceedings, obtaining legal advice or defending any legal rights 

d) Monitoring for equal opportunities purposes – i.e. race, disability or religion 

We regard the lawful and correct treatment of personal information as very important to successful working, and to maintaining the confidence of those with whom we deal. 

If an agency asks for personal data not in compliance with one of the above e.g. to obtain informaton about improving a service a consent form will need to be issued to the data subjects asking for their consent to pass their personal data on.

We intend to ensure that personal information is treated lawfully and correctly. 

Risk Management 

The consequences of breaching Data Protection can cause harm or distress to service users if their information is released to inappropriate people, or they could be denied a service to which they are entitled. 

Trustees, staff and volunteers should be aware that they can be personally liable if they use customers’ personal data inappropriately. 

This policy is designed to minimise the risks and to ensure that the reputation of the charity is not damaged through inappropriate or unauthorised access and sharing. 

Gittisham Gazette October 2025

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 Gittisham GazetteOctober 2025
What’s On                        
at the Village Hall  		A parish newsletter brought to you by Gittisham Parish Council
Harvest Supper Saturday 4th Oct 7pm

Pierre’s Café        Sunday 14th September 

Coffee&Cake     Sat 27th Sept 2.30-4.30

Harvest Supper October 4th 7pm

Open Mic night October 18th 7pm bar and Pizza Wagon


Race Night Sat 8th November prize for best dressed


November 29th Christmas     Craft Fair 10am

Coffee&Cake 2.30

Bingo 7pm  

Weekly Fitness class
Tuesday mornings
Folk Dancing Weds evenings Community Kitchen Thurs eve
Yoga Friday afternoons                                                                                   Pierre’s Café

12th October, Gittisham Village Hall.

This month, focus on this wonderful Autumn and all its flaming colours. The main this month is a roasted chicken or vegan burger, both served with vegetables, roasted potatoes and apple compote to recreate the Autumn rainbow.
Seasonal cakes, tarts and patisseries homemade, as well for croissants, muffins and apricot danishes in the morning.
Booking ahead is highly recommended. 
Pierre: 07545214940.  
   
Church 200 Club July Draw Results
  1st Prize L Abbott
2nd Prize J Twist
3rd Prize B Garrood      		Autumn at the Parish Hall There are so many exciting things to tell you about, we aren’t too sure where to start! Hopefully those who have visited in the last month will have had a chance to admire the newly refurbished loos? What a difference this has made! Huge thanks to Stella and Maggie for their efforts, pulling off the impossible, in just one weekend!   We really enjoyed your company at the recent cake sale and on the Taskmaster Quiz evening!  Thank you for coming along to support these events. Much fun was had by all!    Your continued support, along with some help from a National Lottery Grant will now enable us to move forward with plans to complete the much-needed kitchen refurbishment. If you are a builder or painter/decorator we would love to hear from you as we are keen to employ local craftsmen within the parish if possible.    Looking ahead we have an Open Mic night on October 18th at 7pm. As well as lots of local talent, we will have a licensed bar and pizza wagon! Come and join us with your poems, instruments or tricks?  This promises to be lots of fun! November 29th is definitely a date for your diary, with a Xmas Craft Fair from 10, with all tables now booked! Please do come along and start your Christmas shopping supporting the Artisans of  Gittisham .  We will then run into the ever popular Coffee and Cake afternoon from 2.30-4.30  followed by another epic Christmas Bingo, back by popular demand! Eyes down at 7.30!   We are always looking for feedback and ideas, so do get in touch and let us know the events you would like to see happening. 

 
St Michael’s Church Services   Sunday Oct 5th Harvest Thanksgiving at 3pm    Sunday Oct 12th Holy Communion at 11am   Sunday Oct 26th Choral Evensong at 4pm (Sung by HMC Choir)   Remembrance Sunday Nov 9th Act of Remembrance 10.45 am at the Lychgate followed by Holy Communion in Church       IMPORTANT. Please note the Harvest Thanksgiving Service is at 3pm on Sunday Oct 5th (changed from the time originally given in the in the Gittisham Gazette).Thank You.  

St Michael’s Church Helen Hayman
November 8th is Gittisham race night! Gittisham village hall 7pm Prize for best dressed Lady & Gent! (optional!) No booking required, bar & snacks available! 7 pm.
So come cheer on your favourite horse, win your fortune!
Everyone welcome!

Information from Helen! 07806480246   Natter and Nibbles this month is at Gittisham Farmhouse from 10am-12. All welcome with donations towards the fabric fund of our church. Enjoy the garden and surrounding views. While you’re there you could take a trip to the pumpkin patch. Plenty of parking and the bus can stop outside on the junction. Bring a friend!   After a major fund raising campaign Gittisham Parish Hall are now in a position to refurbish the kitchen and would welcome any expressions of interest from builders/electricians and painters and decorators that live within the Gittisham parish and would be interested in quoting for works to be completed as soon as possible. Please contact Stella 07813802292  

Gittisham Parish Council SEPTEMBER 2025 REPORT

The Parish Council met on 4th September.

Five councillors met for the September meeting along with three members of the public.

Broadband. Adam Powell reported that discussions are taking place between the parish council and a local start-up company interested in bringing full fibre broadband to the village. Councillors noted that the company had heard of the situation in Gittisham following the public meeting the parish council arranged with Connecting Devon & Somerset. A trial scheme of certain properties has been discussed, involving residents with poor broadband signing up to a voucher scheme and a connection box would be installed behind those properties. The discussions are at a very early stage, and all agreed on previous experience it would be wise to be cautious at this stage.

Public transport. One member of the public expressed their concern over the level of service provided by Stagecoach to those who catch the bus. They said the bus had failed to show up on multiple occasions recently, leading to missed medical appointments and delays getting to work. This was particularly noted when South West Water [SWW] closed the road to carry out some emergency repairs. Subsequently the road was reopened but Stagecoach did not appear to have this information and therefore directed its buses to avoid Gittisham village, leaving passengers stranded. Members agreed to take up the matter once again with Stagecoach to press for better communication between the company, Highways (DCC) and SWW. If you have similar experiences of the bus service in the parish, please let the parish council know.

Regarding trains, Peter Orchard said the Government’s takeover to improve South Western Railway’s performance has not gone well. From 11th August, and for the foreseeable future, trains to London are reduced to every two hours with journey times extended 45–60 minutes. The track is reportedly too dry.

Finance. Councillors agreed the finances.

Crimes.             May 2025: Hedge Field Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x criminal damage & arson. Hodges Close: 1 x anti-social behaviour. Hayne Lane: 1 x criminal damage & arson

June 2025: Hedge Field Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x public order

Planning applications.

a) 25/0012/TPO – Land opp Garlands, Gittisham EX14 3AJ

b) 25/1552/LBC & 25/1551/FUL – The Lodge Gittisham EX14 3AD – Remove existing asbestos roof slates and felt, and replace with new natural slate roof with new bat safe roof membrane, including partially dismantling and rebuilding existing chimney stack to match existing.

c) 25/1365/PVJ – Gittisham Farm Gittisham EX14 3AX – Prior approval for the installation of 152 solar PV panels on a pitched roof

Councillors noted a) and c) and had no objections to b).

Road closures. 14 October 2000–2359hrs Road under Ironbridge closed to repair a safety defect.

Next meeting. Thursday 2nd October at 7.30pm in the parish room.

Less than two weeks to go! We can’t wait to welcome you all to the patch for the third year running!

PYO pumpkins

When? 11-12th, 18th-19th, 25th-31st of October. From 10am-4pm

Where? Gittisham Farm, Honiton, EX14 3AX.

Once again @ will be providing some delicious refreshments (we can’t wait!!!)

Opportunities to meet our cows and calves on our working farm.

Lots of photo opportunities (as always we’re happy take photos of you and your families).

Entry is free, with no booking required, just turn up and pay for what you pick!

OH GITTISHAM, MY GITTISHAM

The Honiton town crier does her thing

calling us all in to the summer fete.

“Rain is to be expected,” I hear someone say

as I’m leaving on a jet plane wafts across Will’s Field

from bin-liner shrouded speakers.

Rain drips beneath the gazebos,

trickles down the poles onto our wares below.

3 small goats trip by, take their place

next to the astronomer’s tent

and wait patiently to be admired.

On up the lane, the Honiton Town Band

blasts out tunes to the beat of the rain,

the queue for the cream tea grows restless,

it’s a veritable cake-frenzy.

There’s been tombola shenanigans,

wrong tickets on bottles…

the lads (young and not-so) have been damming the stream,

trousers rolled up, or tucked into wellies

in readiness for the Duck Race at half past 4.

The hi-vis team are marshalling cars and people,

the Blacksmith is terrifying the passing children,

as he winds his bellows to fan the flames

dangerously close to the basket weavers’ wares.

Here in Will’s Field, we gather for the dog show.

Hopeful canines sniff around, pull hopeful owners

to enter ‘prettiest bitch’ or ‘best 6 legs’.

The air is heady with the aroma of wet fur

and clammy cagoules

as the entrants for ‘most obedient’ parade around the paddock

to prove their worth before the gathered crowd.

And we applaud, not just for ‘best in show’

but for the band, for the Morris dancers,

the Tea Crew and The Bar, for the carriers and the shifters,

the bunting hangers and the lifters,

for the 500 yellow ducks tumbling to the finish line

for our Hi-Vis leader, Alex,

and for us, we Gittisham Folk,

for turning up and turning out

doing our thing, just joining in.

The Exeter Street Band play one last tune

and we sway, until finally

the rain pauses.

And at the church,

the bellringers ring out the day.

Village Hall Insurance

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Select for Charity and Social Organisations Village Hall Policy Schedule  

The Policy, the Policy Schedule, Certificates of Insurance and Endorsements form one document and  should be read together. This Schedule replaces any previous Schedule issued.

Policy number VVH 2720278283
Insured Gittisham Parish Hall Management Committee
Business Village Hall
Period of insurance From 13/01/2025 To 12/01/2026
and any other period for which cover has been agreed
3 Year Long Term Agreement £723.73 Premiums are inclusive of Insurance Premium Tax
Schedule number 01
Preparation date 12/11/2024
Long Term Agreement expiry (not  applicable to Part T)12/01/2028
Policy form reference MCOBCH09

1 

Lines of cover applying

Line of cover Insured/Not insured
Part A – Material damage Insured 
Part B – Business interruption Insured 
Part D – Money Not Insured
Part E – Computer Not Insured
Part F – Public liability Insured 
Part G – Hirers’ liability Insured 
Part H – Employers’ liability Insured 
Part I – Libel and slander Not Insured
Part K – Financial and administration liability Not Insured
Part R – Personal accident Not Insured
Part T – Legal expenses Not Insured

Part A – Material damage 

Effective date: 13/01/2025 

Property insured 

Address and postcode Sum insured Declared value Day one basis sum  insured limit
Buildings Gittisham Parish Hall,  Gittisham, Honiton, Devon, EX14 3AU£462,601.70 (£402,262.35) 100%
Hall Contents £27,319.69 (£23,756.25) 100%

Excesses 

The following excesses apply to each and every loss arising in respect of each and every separate premises from: 

Any other cause excluding fire, lightning and explosion £100
Subsidence or ground heave £1,000

Operative endorsements 

Policy booklet 2, 3, 4, 7 and 10 (please refer to the endorsement section of your policy wording). 11. In respect of General provision 1. Limit of Liability the amount is held to be £50,000,000. 

12. Exclusions to parts A, B and C – 15 Property excluded a) is restated as follows: 

a) materials or supplies in connection with buildings or structures in course of construction or erection, alteration,  addition or improvement 

Provided always that the insured will advise the insurer in respect of any works being undertaken to the property in the  event that: 

i) the cost of such works exceeds £250,000  

ii) such works involve the application of heat by means of electric oxyacetylene or other welding or cutting equipment  or angle grinders, blow lamps, blow torches, hot air guns or hot air strippers 

iii) the insured is required to effect insurance on the property in the joint names of themselves and the contractor, in  which case the insurer shall be entitled to charge an additional premium as appropriate for the provision of such  cover under Part C – Works in progress – ‘all risks’.

Part B – Business interruption 

Effective date: 13/01/2025 

Item Description Sum insured Maximum indemnity period
1 Loss of Gross Revenue £4,650.00 12 months

Operative endorsements 

Policy booklet 10 (please refer to your policy wording). 

11. In respect of General provision 1. Limit of Liability the amount is held to be £50,000,000.  

Part F – Public liability 

Effective date: 13/01/2025 

Limit of indemnity 

£10,000,000 

Excess 

£Nil 

Retroactive date for Abuse Event 13/01/2025 

Operative endorsements 

1. In respect of Part F – Public Liability. Section 2 – Cover. 2.9 Events part a) is amended to read: the event has a capacity not exceeding 750 persons. 

Part G – Hirers’ liability 

Effective date: 13/01/2025 

Limit of indemnity 

£2,000,000 

Part H – Employers’ liability 

Effective date: 13/01/2025 

Limit of indemnity 

£10,000,000 

Zurich Insurance Company Ltd. A public limited company incorporated in Switzerland. Registered in the Canton of Zurich, No. CHE-105.833.114, registered  offices at Mythenquai 2, 8002 Zurich. UK Branch registered in England and Wales no BR000105. UK Branch Head Office: The Zurich Centre, 3000 Parkway,  Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire PO15 7JZ. Zurich Insurance Company Ltd is authorised and regulated in Switzerland by the Swiss Financial Market  Supervisory Authority FINMA. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority. Subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and limited  regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority are available from us on  request. Our firm reference number is 959113. 

MSECNA09 (08/24)

Village Hall Committee August 2025

by
Date Wednesday 6th August 2025
Present Stella, Toni, Jess, Claire, Bill, Alex
Apologies Nick, Maggie, Damian
Next meet Next meeting: Monday 8th September 7:30pm – Village Hall
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsNew actions:All committee meetings for 2025 are now on the Hallmaster calendar – thank you Stella.Kitchen Refurb – Stella circulated the quote, requires the Committee to review and respond to the design/quote. Specifically the installation of Hood/Extractor Unit. It was agreed we need a couple of other quotes in for stainless steel kitchens – Alex agreed to  look into other installation companies.
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.

Old actions: Alex to update on the Lottery Grant – anticipate to hear in 12 weeks time (Aug/Sept) – Not heard yet.
Stella to share agreed resolution to amend the 1933 declaration of trust with the Charity Commission.
Stella to update the committee on plans to produce further policies that the Parish Hall is required to adopt and maintain – ongoing throughout 2025. Stella got templates from the DCC. Will circulate when they are ready to be approved by the Committee.
Damian to contact hall insurer and investigate how the installation of batteries and solar panels affects our insurance premium. 
Damian to circulate a list of options for where to deposit the Redwood savings account money, for discussion and agreement at the July meeting. To be discussed today, see notes below.
Alex to explore options for changing electricity and gas suppliers to a cheaper evening / business tariff, also considering smart meters, contract break clauses and options to sell our energy back to the grid.
Damian to give Alex permission to negotiate with Eon.
All to review the design/quote


Committee members and governanceNick has asked that we all ensure we have signed up as trustees on the gov.uk/charities commission as per Alex’s email back in May. Most have done this, so thanks for everyone’s efficiency. A couple outstanding to be actioned.

Stella has arranged a meeting on the Wednesday 24th September to host DCT at the Hall. Homemade baked goods was discussed, could request donations on the “Friends of the Hall” whatsapp. One to firm up at the September meeting as to responsibilities.
Hallmaster/Bookings Management: Stella, Jess and Gary discussed responsibilities for the Hall booking responsibilities. Jess and Stella to meet further to continue to hand over the Hallmaster system. Gary is responsible for the physical Hall and Stella is responsible for the system/email account. 
Booking T&Cs: Stella has drafted the new T&Cs for bookings and Claire has made amendments also. We went through the detail of the Terms and Conditions; covering Who can book the hall; Capacity; Deposits; Noise; Health & Hygiene; Drunk/Disorderly Behaviour; Cancellation. Stella is rewriting the Ts&Cs with the amendments and will circulate for approval before posting on the website and also circulating with our long term Customers to agree to. It was unanimously agreed to proceed with the new Ts&Cs. Stella has an accident book we can use at the Hall.






FinanceNote carried over from July: Damian reviewing alternative energy providers with Alex and putting to the committee. Damian is still awaiting access to and to be made Primary Account holder from Janet to the Redwood account and the current account – Maggie is happy to ask Janet for an update on this. Once Damian has access he will move the £10k from the current account into a more lucrative account to earn some interest. 
No formal financial update at this meeting as Damian is away and prioritised work from the Care Quality Commission regarding our inspection – thank you Damian for your time spent on that. He did convey ahead of the meeting that there were no financials decisions to be made and that payments are up to date. Jess and Stella have also been checking the income via the banking app and cross referencing with outstanding invoices on Hallmaster.
Maggie/Damian
GrantsClaire has been successful(!) – well done Claire – for £500 worth of paint from Crown. Claire suggested we try and get a mural/artist. Jess is going to ask her Mum (an artist) to do it. We can do this as part of our painting “party” that was discussed last time. 
Alex raised that East Devon are reopening the Carbon Action fund in September 2025. It was the grant we successfully won in 2024 for the solar panels so it could be used to apply for the air to air heat pumps or new batteries (Claire’s suggestion). It was noted by Claire and Alex that we could invest in infrared heaters to run off the batteries from the Solar Panels to save on electric. – One to pick up again once the grant is open.



MaintenanceClaire is going to order a new hand dryer for the mens toilet after the Committee members present voted that it was a good idea. Keeping the old hand dryer in the disabled toilet as it is quieter and more suitable for customers that have sensitive hearing/sensory issues with the newer more powerful dryer. 
Claire has implemented “Bins for Boys” for the mens toilets to raise awareness of Prostate Cancer.
Claire raised the suggestion of wired smoke alarms/carbon monoxide detectors. One to discuss at the next meeting. Claire wants to get the Fire Service out to assess the building and how to make it safer – Claire will reluctantly contact the Fire Service to come out and meet her at the hall for a full assessment.
Thanks to Claire for your hard work in the garden, we have had lots of positive feedback from Customers on how fantastic the garden looks. Claire is still hoping to get many spring bulbs to transform the garden for Spring 2026. We have 2 wedding requests already so they will be appreciated. Claire suggested for our 100th anniversary to get a pair of sweet Almond trees for the garden. 
Bill has volunteered to box in the boiler and electrics in the kitchen. Alex agreed to help also. To be done before the H&S Food inspection ideally.









BookingsBookings for August below.
Future eventsCoffee&Cake – 27th September is the next one – Claire is hosting. (sept, oct).30th August – it was agreed the Hall committee will support the Fete as volunteers where possible.29th November Bingo booked – Xmas crafts in the morning, Xmas cake safe in the afternoon followed by bingo. Toni will make a poster to appeal to craft stallers.Molly’s pupil could do a talk in September about his upbringing and journey from moving to England from Crimea – 12th September – Stella checking its in the diary.October – Nic Wakely talk (orchids/glass)Autumnal Quiz – needs advertising (maybe a harvest quiz after the coffee and cake day). 27th Sept.Open Mic night – October Pizza van, bar, open mic (music, poetry, comedy) 18th October.Halloween/Christmas Party for Children?September 10th  open night with the folk dance club – Date TBC. 
Potential future events:Skittles. Autumn talks: Hardy wine talk / gardening talk / astronomy talk / Nic Wakely glass talk?Spanish event – Stella is doing some research.Claire suggested a murder mystery evening.



AOBThanks to Sue Fallows for doing our bins every week! It doesn’t go unnoticed – We as a Committee should Thank Sue formally.
Stella has a few points for discussion:Hallmaster – Stella continuing with subscription so will set up the direct debit with them. Facebook Page – Alex giving Toni access to the facebook page to share and create events with the wonderful posters she makes for all our events.Reviews – Jess – a link to be added to the thank you email on Hallmaster with a link to the facebook page/google form requesting feedback. Website – there needs to be a couple of updates on the website, Alex will make the amends after a separate meeting with Stella. (wording tweaks, policy links, T&Cs updating).Parish Council want the smaller room to have a meeting once a month on a Thursday after community kitchen. It was discussed to charge the parishioner rate of £12 an hour for their booking. It was put to a vote and agreed. 
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026
INCOME31st July 2025EXPENDITURE31st July 2025
2024/2533.4% of 2024/252025/262024/2533.4% of 2024/252025/26
Balance b/fwd£5,571.27Insurance£723.73£241.73£0.00
Non-domestic rates£0.00£0.00£0.00
Hire of Hall£5,828.56£1,946.74£2,263.26Cleaning/grass cutting£1,901.59£635.13£423.25
Social Events£5,782.76£1,931.44£4,534.84Maintenance/Equipment£45,022.20£15,037.41£553.39
Interest£0.00£0.00Water/Gas/Electric£3,039.75£1,015.28£843.62
Miscellaneous£43,476.90£14,521.28£10,904.00Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)£2,457.59£820.84£2,487.13
£55,088.22£18,399.47£17,702.10£53,144.86£17,750.38£4,307.39
Balance£18,965.98
Total£23,273.37£23,273.37

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 Fete Report 2025

by

Gittisham Fete a ‘Quacking’ Success Despite the Rain
Gittisham’s annual fete, held on Saturday, August 30th, was a resounding success, drawing over 500 visitors despite the damp weather (great for ducks). The event kicked off with a grand opening by Honiton’s Town Crier, Caroline, setting a lively tone that continued throughout the day.

The air was filled with music and merriment, featuring a medley of pieces by the Honiton Town Band, vibrant performances from the Otter Morris Dancers, and the energetic sounds of the Exeter Street Band. The stalls were a fantastic sight, stretching from the Village Hall, where fantastic traditional cream teas were served (which raised nearly half the funds!), all the way up to the Church, which hosted a display titled “Gittisham Memories,” showcasing the village’s history.


Attendees also enjoyed a variety of other attractions, including classic cars and live blacksmithing demonstrations  from Gittisham’s very own forge.
A brief pause in the rain allowed for the highly anticipated Dog Show, judged by Maryanne from Vale Vets. The competition was fierce, with many great entries making for some very tough decisionns. A particularly amusing moment came during the “Best 6 Legs” category, which was won by Len, who in a display of true British grit, was sporting shorts despite the downpour.


The Dog Show took place in Will’s field, which was also home to more stands. These included the Poetry stand, where Anne created a fantastic poem about the event, which was read out the following day.
There was also the popular Goat-O-Booth, where both children and adults got selfies with the gorgeous goats.



The day’s highlight was the Great Duck Race, which commenced at 4:48 PM after the sluice was opened. Spectators cheered as the ducks raced down the River Gitt, navigating obstacles and vying for the lead.


The champion duck was plucked from the water by Finley, a 10-year-old volunteer who was an integral part of the day’s operations.

Finley was recognized as a true star, assisting with everything from setup and parking to radio commentary and the final rescue of the winning duck.
Thanks to the community’s support, the fete raised just over £2,000, a fantastic achievement given the weather. The funds will go towards the maintenance of the Church and the Village Hall, two key community buildings.


The fete will return next year on Saturday, September 5th, 2026. More details about the event will be announced in the new year.
There are also lots of great events coming up in the Gittisham Village Hall soon. Be sure to check the Gittisham website and Facebook page for more details,
The success of the fete was made possible by the hard work of the many volunteers, parishioners & bakers, also the generous support of the sponsors, including the Parish Council, Carter Dawes, Combe Estate & Shermans Farm, Vale Vets, The Pig, Combe Garden Centre, Otter Nurseries, Joshuas, Devon Vale, Hare and Hounds,  Norman Lockyer Observatory, Heron Farm, and OneStop Shop.
– Alex Rowe & The Gittisham Fete Committee
Images by Alex, Robert, Toni, Carla, Gary, Stella & Damian

Gittisham Gazette September 2025

by

A parish newsletter brought to you by Gittisham Parish Council

What’s On at the Hall

Dance Club  Open Evening
 Wednesday 10th September 7.30pm

Pierre’s Café        Sunday 14th September 

Coffee&Cake     Sat 27th Sept 2.30-4.30

Quiz Night       Saturday 27th September 7pm

Harvest Supper October 4th 7pm

Open Mic night October 18th 7pm bar and Pizza Wagon

November 29th Christmas     Craft Fair 10am

Coffee&Cake 2.30 Bingo 7pm  


Weekly
Fitness class Tuesday mornings
Folk Dancing Weds evenings
Community Kitchen Thurs eve
Yoga Friday afternoons                                                                               Church Services
Sunday Sept 14th at 11am Holy Communion  
Sunday Sept 28th at 3 pm At St Paul’s Honiton Choral Evensong & Farewell Service for Rev Sue    

Harvest Supper  Sat Oct 4th 7pm in the Village Hall  

Sunday Oct  5th  Harvest Thanksgiving Service at 11am  

Sunday Oct 12th at 11am  Holy Communion  

Sunday Oct 26th at 11am Morning Worship      


Pierre’s Café 14th September

Pierre’s monthly pop-up café will be at the village hall on Sunday 14th September.  
As well as lunch there’ll be the usual selection of freshly made croissants, pains au chocolat and other French pastries in the morning to savour with a coffee or tea.   For dessert / afternoon drop in for a range of homemade cakes.   Vegan and gluten free customers catered for.  
We’ve been sold out for lunch in recent months, so please book if you can – it really helps us know how many to cater for and means we avoid having to turn people away.  Open 10-4, Gittisham Village Hall.   Text or call Pierre on 07545 214940.  
Hope to see you there.         


Church 200 Club July Draw Results  
1st Prize M Tawse
2nd Prize M Tawse
3rd Prize F Wolsey    



St Michael’s Church Helen Hayman Harvest supper Saturday 4 th October at 7 pm , tickets £10.00 adults, £5.00 children! Bring your own drinks! At Gittisham village hall, tickets are selling fast so order from Helen Hayman!

Looking ahead to November 8th Gittisham race night! Gittisham village hall! Prize for best dressed Lady & Gent! (optional!) No booking required, bar & snacks available!
7 pm.
So come cheer on your favourite horse, win your fortune!
Everyone welcome!

Information from Helen! 07806480246  

Gittisham Fete a ‘Quacking’ Success Despite the Rain

Gittisham’s annual fete, held on Saturday, August 30th, was a resounding success, drawing over 500 visitors despite the damp weather (great for ducks). The event kicked off with a grand opening by Honiton’s Town Crier, Caroline, setting a lively tone that continued throughout the day.

The air was filled with music and merriment, featuring a medley of pieces by the Honiton Town Band, vibrant performances from the Otter Morris Dancers, and the energetic sounds of the Exeter Street Band. The stalls were a fantastic sight, stretching from the Village Hall, where fantastic traditional cream teas were served (which raised nearly half the funds!), all the way up to the Church, which hosted a display titled “Gittisham Memories,” showcasing the village’s history.

Attendees also enjoyed a variety of other attractions, including classic cars and live blacksmithing demonstrations  from Gittisham’s very own forge.

A brief pause in the rain allowed for the highly anticipated Dog Show, judged by Maryanne from Vale Vets. The competition was fierce, with many great entries making for some very tough decisionns. A particularly amusing moment came during the “Best 6 Legs” category, which was won by Len, who in a display of true British grit, was sporting shorts despite the downpour.

The Dog Show took place in Will’s field, which was also home to more stands. These included the Poetry stand, where Anne created a fantastic poem about the event, which was read out the following day.

There was also the popular Goat-O-Booth, where both children and adults got selfies with the gorgeous goats.

The day’s highlight was the Great Duck Race, which commenced at 4:48 PM after the sluice was opened. Spectators cheered as the ducks raced down the River Gitt, navigating obstacles and vying for the lead.

The champion duck was plucked from the water by Finley, a 10-year-old volunteer who was an integral part of the day’s operations.

Finley was recognized as a true star, assisting with everything from setup and parking to radio commentary and the final rescue of the winning duck.

Thanks to the community’s support, the fete raised just over £2,000, a fantastic achievement given the weather. The funds will go towards the maintenance of the Church and the Village Hall, two key community buildings.

The fete will return next year on Saturday, September 5th, 2026. More details about the event will be announced in the new year.

There are also lots of great events coming up in the Gittisham Village Hall soon. Be sure to check the Gittisham website and Facebook page for more details,

The success of the fete was made possible by the hard work of the many volunteers, parishioners & bakers, also the generous support of the sponsors, including the Parish Council, Carter Dawes, Combe Estate & Shermans Farm, Vale Vets, The Pig, Combe Garden Centre, Otter Nurseries, Joshuas, Devon Vale, Hare and Hounds,  Norman Lockyer Observatory, Heron Farm, and OneStop Shop.

– Alex Rowe & The Gittisham Fete Committee

Images by Alex, Robert, Toni, Carla, Gary, Stella & Damian

Devon Open Studios – Octavia Madden

I will be taking part in Devon Open Studios this September and warmly invite you to visit my studio in Ottery St Mary. I’ll be showing a selection of my recent paintings, drawings and prints, and it’s a chance to see where and how I work. 

Devon Open Studios is a county-wide event where artists open their doors to the public, offering a unique opportunity to explore a variety of creative practices and discover new work. Entry is free, and everyone is welcome.

I look forward to welcoming you!

Gittisham Village Hall

Dear friends of Gittisham Hall,


We hope you have all enjoyed a great summer and have been able to spend time enjoying the lovely weather.

Your hall committee have been busy putting plans together for an exciting program of events this autumn.


September 10th. We have all been kindly invited to join the Gittisham Folk Dancing Club at 7.30 for a free taster of their fun dance class with live musicians.


September 27th.

Our ever-popular cake sale 2.30-4.30pm

Harvest themed Quiz 7pm


October 18th Open Mic night with bar, and Pizza Wagon, from 7pm


November 29th

Christmas craft fair from 10am… do get in touch if you or someone you know would like to reserve a table to sell from.

Cake sale 2.30-4.30

Christmas bingo 7pm, eyes down 7.30pm


We hope you will come and join us! Your support enables us to make repairs and upgrades to our much loved and very old hall!
Over the past two months, two new hand dryers have been installed along with upgraded handwashing facilities in the kitchen, with plans to start redecorating the toilets in September.


We are always keen to hear from anyone wishing to support us, either with feedback, ideas, time or donations!

Gittisham Parish Council

The Parish Council met on 4th September. A report will be available shortly on the village website and also in the next edition of the Gazette.

2025-09 Parish Council agenda 4th September 2025

by

GITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL

Ms Fiona Clampin

Clerk to the Council

clerk@gittisham.org.uk

29th August 2025

Members of Gittisham Parish Council

You are hereby summoned to attend the September Parish Council Meeting to be held in Gittisham Parish Room on Thursday 4th September commencing at 7.30pm to discuss items on the Agenda and to make resolutions as appropriate.

Prior to the start of the meeting a period of 15 minutes is allowed to permit any resident to bring appropriate matters to the notice of the Council.  Please contact the clerk if you would like to do this, preferably by email in advance of the meeting, with a question you wish to be raised with Councillors on your behalf. 

  1. To accept and approve apologies
  2. To confirm the Minutes of the meeting held on 10th July 2025
  3. To receive the Beat Manager’s report
  4. To receive declarations of interest
  5. To consider actions from last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
  6. To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives and to consider Local Government re-organisation
  7. To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and any actions arising
  8. To consider the following planning applications:
    • 25/0012/TPO – Land opp Garlands, Gittisham EX14 3AJ – details tbc
    • 25/1552/LBC – The Lodge Gittisham EX14 3AD – Remove existing asbestos roof slates and felt, and replace with new natural slate roof with new ‘bat safe’ roof membrane, including partially dismantling and rebuilding existing chimney stack to match existing
    • 25/1551/FUL – The Lodge Gittisham EX14 3AD – Remove existing asbestos roof slates and felt, and replace with new natural slate roof with new ‘bat safe’ roof membrane, including partially dismantling and rebuilding existing chimney stack to match existing
    • 25/1365/PVJ – Gittisham Farm Gittisham EX14 3AX – Prior approval for the installation of 152 solar PV panels on a pitched roof
  9. To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
  • To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
  • To note the latest planning decision notices (Cllr Orchard)
  • To receive an update on highways (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy and S106 (Cllr Orchard & Cllr Hall)
  • To receive an update on public transport (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land off Old Elm Road (Cllr Rowe, Cllr Rye)
  • To consider limited residential development in the parish (Cllr Valentine)
  • To consider the creation of a traffic-free amenity route linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village, inc. a footway close to the Otter Inn (Cllr Powell / Cllr Rowe)
  • To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area, and to note the annual safety inspection report
  • To consider the work of the parish lengthsman
  1. To receive a report from the Chair
  2. To approve the September payments and to note the current bank balance:

F Clampin £275.29 clerk’s salary + £10.13 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 3 for minutes, agenda & July meeting @0.45p / mile)

Fiona Clampin backdated pay from April 2025 at new NALC rate £14.82 / hr – £44.98

Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10443)

Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10432)

Fab Trim Landscaping 13 hrs lengthsman work @£20/hr & 2 hrs gully clearing @£60 / hr INV-000018 £380

Cllr C Hall, reimbursement for boules set £27.95

NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.98

  1. To consider proposals to reduce the balance of Gittisham Parish Council’s reserves
  2. To consider changing the location of future parish council meetings
  3. Clerk’s report
  4. For information only; items for the forward agenda
  5. To consider any late entry correspondence
  6. To note the date of the next two meetings, Thursday 2nd October and Thursday 6th November 2025 at 7.30pm. 

F J Clampin – Clerk

Gittisham Gazette August 2025

by
What’s On                        
at the Village Hall  		A parish newsletter brought to you by Gittisham Parish Council
Flower & Produce Show      
Saturday 2nd August
Opens 2.30pm     
Potato weigh in 3.15pm

Syrian Kitchen
Sunday 3rd August

Pierre’s Café       
Sunday 10th August 

Gittisham Fete
Saturday 30th August

Parish Council  
Thurs 4th September

Ukraine – a village hall talk                      
Fri 12th Sept



Weekly
Fitness class Tuesday mornings

Folk Dancing Weds evenings

Community Kitchen Thurs eve

Yoga Friday afternoons


A message from Amne: Hi everyone, we have Mary’s Syrian Kitchen Pop Up in Gittisham Hall on the 3rd of August from 12:30 until 2:30 we will serve lunch and drink and dessert £20 for a person   Call to book or send a message please 07383 104987                                                                        Church 200 Club July Draw Results

1st prize Una Wakley-Beddows
2nd prize Ava Marker-Morgan
3rd prize Mrs M Doidge  

Church Services

Sunday 24th at 11am Holy Communion Rev Sue’s last celebration of Communion at St Michael’s   

Sunday 31st at 3pm Hymns and Pimms   Sunday Sept 28th at 3pm Choral Evensong and Farewell Service for Rev Sue at St Paul’s      





Pierre’s Cafe           

Summer’s arrived at Pierre’s monthly pop-up café and he’ll be cooking kebabs with vegetables for lunch on Sunday 10th August.   Plus there’ll be the usual selection of freshly made croissants, pains au chocolat and other French pastries in the morning to savour with a coffee or tea.   For dessert / afternoon drop in for a range of homemade cakes.   Vegan and gluten free customers catered for.  We’ve been sold out for lunch in recent months, so please book if you can – it really helps us know how many to cater for and means we avoid having to turn people away.  Open 10-4, Gittisham Village Hall.   Text or call Pierre on 07545 214940.  Hope to see you there.





























 
With just a month to go, preparations are in full swing for this year’s Gittisham Village Fete – a wonderful celebration of our community. But to make it all happen, we need your help.

Last year was a fantastic day, but we were stretched thin on volunteers. A small group ended up covering far more than expected. This year, we’re asking for more helping hands, even just for an hour or two, so everyone can enjoy the day. Whether you’re new to the village or have helped before, please consider joining the team – it’s a great way to meet people and be part of something special.
Volunteers Needed. We’re looking for people to help with the following roles:    Traffic management and car parking
   Admissions desk (welcoming visitors)
   Duck Race team (setting up, launching)
   Serving cream teas in the Village Hall
   Cakes! (selling and baking)    Ice cream sales    Bar team    Tombola stall    Dog show assistance    Setup and end-of-day pack away

No experience needed – just enthusiasm and a friendly face!

To volunteer, email:  Or contact us via the Village WhatsApp group.

What’s On During the Fete
   2.00pm – Fete opens with music from the Honiton Town Band
   3.00pm – Dog Show in Will’s Field
   Cream teas in the Village Hall
   Morris dancers, the Gittisham Memories display in the Church, and classic vehicles on the Village Green
   Pizza Van
   Stalls lining the main avenue and Will’s Field

Around 4.30pm – The ever-popular Duck Race. Tickets are just £1 each and will be on sale throughout August. Prizes: 1st £100 2nd £50 3rd £25 4th £10

A huge thank you to our generous supporters: The Parish Council, The Pig, Vale Vets, and CarterDawes, whose backing helps us maintain the prizes and keep the fete going strong.
Let’s work together to make this year’s fete a day to remember – we can’t do it without your support. Website: gittisham.org.uk/fete Email: 



St Michael’s Church Helen Hayman September 6th @ Truances dairy, Natter & Nibbles! Anyone welcome to park at Gittisham Farm drive & walk up if not enough room or depending on weather a field maybe available beside! 10-12noon.
Also at the fete on 30th August will have the fascinating Gittisham Memories display in church! A full display of village life past & present with a couple stalls! Any unwanted good condition books welcome, place in church please.
Then on Sunday 1st September, hymns & pimms.
Harvest Supper will be held on Saturday 4th October, 7 pm ! With “bring your own drink”.  There will be an auction of any produce donated in the church amongst the flower displays! So please add jams, produce, pickles, food/ drink in the church amongst the flower arrangements.
Menu will be Beef, Chicken, vegetable option with pudding! (any dietary preference given when booking). Tickets £10.00 all towards the church fabric! Helen 07806480246 or email

Then looking ahead to November 8th! Race night with bar! Just turn up for a fun evening with plenty of horse owners needed or cheer on the participants! In Gittisham Hall!    


Gittisham Village Hall   Dear friends of the hall and supporters,

We are delighted to report another well supported cake sale last month. With your help we raised over £200 towards the running costs of the hall and planned upgrades! Thank you to all involved, especially the excellent bakers!

We continue to get to grips with the new hall booking system and thank you for your patience with any teething problems. It seems this has generally been well received and remain happy to chat to anyone who would like to give us any feedback.

August is a quiet month with the hall committee supporting efforts to organise the highly anticipated Fete on Saturday August 30th. We look forward to hosting the teas in the hall.

Dates for your diary:
September 12th 7pm. Talk by a young Ukrainian student who has kindly agreed to talk with us about the conflict in Ukraine and their personal hopes for the future. Please note that funds raised from this event will be offered to the speaker.

September 27th  Cake Sale 2.30-4.30 and Harvest themed Quiz 7pm
October 18th Open Mic night, bar and Pizzas
November 29th Xmas craft sale 10-2 Xmas cake sale 2.30-4.30
Xmas Bingo. 7pm for 7.30
We look forward to seeing you soon!  

Gittisham Parish Hall was very lucky to be one of a few charities to be gifted £450 of free paint from Crown this month. We would be glad of any help to paint the loos in September

Village Hall Talk on Ukraine Molly Furniss

Gittisham’s popular Village Hall Talk event is set to resume on Friday 12th September, with a talk given by guest speaker Illia Vdovych, a Ukranian student who has been a refugee in the UK since 2022. Illia is an exceptional young man, and I was honoured to have him as my tutee at Exeter College. Despite arriving in the UK with limited English, he achieved excellent GCSE results and progressed on to an A level programme studying History, Economics and Further Maths. He hopes to enrol at Durham University in the Autumn, where he will study History and Politics.

Illia will give a talk at the Village Hall about Ukraine’s history, explaining how the first Ukrainian National Republic was formed in 1917, and discussing the country’s current challenges as a result of the Russian invasion in February 2022. He will also speak about the implications of the war for Britain and the world order. 

I’m really delighted that Illia is happy to deliver a talk which promises to be insightful, thought-provoking and informative. Please come along to support Illia and learn more about Ukraine from the perspective of someone who has been so personally impacted by the turbulence of its recent history.

Village Playground

The village has a playground, which is leased to the parish council, and well-used by parishioners. The equipment was upgraded in 2011, following a successful fund-raising campaign by residents to provide a space for young and old alike to enjoy the outdoors. There is a boules pitch, as well as two types of swing, a balance beam, see-saw and a cow springer. Benches and a bbq are provided also.

A patch of land has been joined with the existing park to create a ‘go wild’ area. This space has a tower slide and mown paths as well as wild flowers and fruit trees, and  bird, bug and bee houses.

Gittisham Parish Council

The Parish Councillors are having a well-earned break from their monthly meetings and will meet again on 4th September in the Village Hall. Public are most welcome to attend and if you wish to speak, there is an opportunity at the start of the meeting. Or please do keep in contact with your Councillors via the Clerk

We are always happy to hear from you and over the summer we are still busy, in particular looking at the work schedule for our new Parish Lengthsman on parish drains, verges and ditches, renovating the village playground boules court, ongoing work on creating safe walking and amenity routes in the parish to contact the 2 halves of the parish and the ever-present pressure on anyone and everyone to get decent broadband into the village.

Broadband in Gittisham village and surrounds, we are not alone.

Councillor Adam Powell

For many years, possibly the last ten, Gittisham has made a lot of noise about not being connected to full fibre broadband. It is no comfort to know that nearby Weston, Hayne Farm Estate, and of course Honiton have superfast fibre provision, if they want it. We have a little bit of news on this front, but please do not get too excited.

In July 2025 Gittisham Parish Council (GPC), received by email, the results of a survey by East Devon District Council (EDDC) on Rural Broadband in East Devon. These were the findings of an online questionnaire in May 2025 EDDC sent out to town and parish councils, including GPC, many rural businesses, and chambers of commerce. More than one hundred responses were received over the three week period that the survey was live. Broadband provision was rated 1-5, 1 being very poor and 5 excellent. In summary 73.3% rated their broadband provision very poor or poor (1 or 2), 20% reported average service (3), and only 6.6% felt they had a strong service. In other words, almost three quarters of respondents reported their broadband provision was below average, with dropouts, poor speeds, or no connection at all. To amplify this many rural areas of East Devon have very poor or no mobile signal, this means no easy alternative means of connecting to broadband.

The report highlighted the frustrations of businesses, lost internet sales, inability to operate or expand, poor communication between businesses and clients, wasted download time, relocation costs, and expensive satellite alternatives. For residents the consequences of poor provision are equally dire for education, remote working, healthcare, online banking, shopping, and entertainment to name but a few areas of concern. Many witness statements were recorded in the report.

Just to clarify the provision of fast broadband fibre services in Devon and Somerset has been the responsibility of Devon and Somerset County Councils, not EDDC, more specifically an organisation called Connecting Devon and Somerset CDS, since 2015. Many millions have been thrown at this project, many commercial companies have not completed their rollouts, and CDS have not been taken to account for this failure.

Well after 10 years of failing to provide what is now considered an essential utility this report is really, to put it mildly stating what we already know, in Gittisham Parish in particular. I suppose it is reassuring to know we are not alone.

The report continues with three next steps, to summarise, EDDC will:

1.Join together with other Devon Districts to highlight poor broadband provision, and use this stronger voice to lobby central government.

2.Write to the leader of Devon County Council asking them to explain the current position and the failure of rollouts that have occurred in the past.

3.Write to the minister for digital communications (Peter Kyle MP) and our East Devon MPs asking for a clear plan of action, and a renewed commitment to deliver full fibre infrastructure in rural areas.

The key economic strategy of the current government is to increase growth and improve productivity, how are residents of Gittisham expected to do this without strong digital connectivity? The digital age has overtaken our lives in the last ten years, one cannot imagine how poor access to broadband may affect our lives in the next ten years if connectivity does not improve radically.  

You may want to read the full report summary, which is available on the EDDC website;

https://eastdevon.gov.uk/media/bzcleegm/rural-broadband-consultation-summary-report.pdf

Your comments and feedback would be most welcome by both the Gazette, and Gittisham Parish Council.