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)
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.
Next meeting: Monday 8th September7:30pm – Village Hall
Item
Details
Actions
All actions
New 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 governance
Nick 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.
Finance
Note 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
Grants
Claire 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.
Maintenance
Claire 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.
Bookings
Bookings for August below.
Future events
Coffee&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.
AOB
Thanks 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 2026
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026
INCOME
31st July 2025
EXPENDITURE
31st July 2025
2024/25
33.4% of 2024/25
2025/26
2024/25
33.4% of 2024/25
2025/26
Balance b/fwd
£5,571.27
Insurance
£723.73
£241.73
£0.00
Non-domestic rates
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
Hire of Hall
£5,828.56
£1,946.74
£2,263.26
Cleaning/grass cutting
£1,901.59
£635.13
£423.25
Social Events
£5,782.76
£1,931.44
£4,534.84
Maintenance/Equipment
£45,022.20
£15,037.41
£553.39
Interest
£0.00
£0.00
Water/Gas/Electric
£3,039.75
£1,015.28
£843.62
Miscellaneous
£43,476.90
£14,521.28
£10,904.00
Miscellaneous(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
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
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 Café14th 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.
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.
To accept and approve apologies
To confirm the Minutes of the meeting held on 10th July 2025
To receive the Beat Manager’s report
To receive declarations of interest
To consider actions from last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives and to consider Local Government re-organisation
To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and any actions arising
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
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
To receive a report from the Chair
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
To consider proposals to reduce the balance of Gittisham Parish Council’s reserves
To consider changing the location of future parish council meetings
Clerk’s report
For information only; items for the forward agenda
To consider any late entry correspondence
To note the date of the next two meetings, Thursday 2nd October and Thursday 6th November 2025 at 7.30pm.
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 personCall 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;
Next meeting: Wednesday 6th August 7:30pm – Village Hall
Item
Details
Actions
All actions
New actions:Alex to update on the Lottery Grant – anticipate to hear in 12 weeks time (Aug/Sept) Thanks from the Committee to Sara for all her hard work at the Fathers Day BBQ.Thank you to Stella for raising points (annexed below) for discussion in her absence. A number of topics were covered and we ran out of time to cover them all in detail – to be picked up at the next meeting. Old actions: 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. Damian to contact hall insurer and investigate how the installation of batteries and solar panels affects our insurance premium.He needs Alex to send him the final electricity certifications prior to approaching the insurer. 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. Once alternatives are found, Damian/Alex to put it to a vote on the Whatsapp group within the next 2 weeks (by 21st July). Damian to give Alex permission to negotiate with Eon.
Nick to send thank you
Alex to send Damian certificate of compliance for the insurance please.Damian/Alex
Committee members and governance
Thanks to Bill for painting around the boiler from all The Committee. Nick 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.
Devon Communities Together have advised Stella that further documents will need to be agreed and uploaded to the Village Hall website, including a range policies such as: the financial reserves policy, health and safety etc. Stella volunteered to review, and coordinate our progressive production, agreement and publicising of these policies. Stella has arranged a meeting on the Wednesday 24th September to host DCT at the Hall. Discussion was had about catering and it seemed teas/coffees and homemade baked goods would suffice. Nick has asked for volunteers to provide some baked goods for the meeting. Estimated to have between 20-30 guests and Claire will put it on our “Friends of the Hall” Whatsapp group for donations of food/hosting help on the day. Hallmaster review: Gary made some notes on the Hallmaster system and notes in general. Claire read these out and the issues were discussed with the Committee. Jess to review Gary’s notes on Hallmaster to review and make tweaks on the system over the next couple of weeks. Jess to add T&Cs to the Hallmaster booking form. Jess and Gary to have a meeting to iron out the creases of Hallmaster. It was agreed these are teething issues and it was put to a vote to continue – it was unanimously agreed to continue. Developments to the system and the process to be reviewed at the next meeting.
Stella
Claire
Jess to collaborate with Gary on Hallmaster
Finance
Damian talked through this months’ finances. The Folk Club have paid their outstanding invoice and it has helped the health of the account. As per the above action, Damian is reviewing alternative energy providers with Alex and will put to the committee shortly. Damian is still awaiting access to and to be made Primary Account holder from Janet Twist 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. Social events for 2025 have been lucrative. There was a resounding thanks to Mike Dentry from all the committee for paying for the band as a donation to the hall – it allowed us to make a significant profit of £535 on the night! Jess to send Damian written confirmation of the band payment. It was discussed about purchasing a licence for the premises and the cost vs benefit. Would be better to discuss with the whole committee present. It seemed positive but there were some concerns about the responsibility of being licensees so we need more information to make an informed decision. It was agreed to proceed with using Geraldine as our accountant.
Maggie/Damian
Jess
Grants
Lottery grant has now been submitted – expect to hear back in 12 weeks or so. Thanks to Alex and Nick for submitting that. Claire has submitted a request for £500 worth of paint from Crown. 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.
Maintenance
Claire has reported back that the customers have been “blown away” by the new hand dryer and it is a drastic improvement to the facilities. The wall needs patching behind the old hand dryer. Claire requested at the last meeting in June for guttering on the shed and a water butt, and an outside tap behind the ladies toilets. It was added to the maintenance annex below. Toni is kindlydonating a water butt. – All of the above has been done, thank you to Claire! Toni will be requesting support from “Friends of the Hall” for a painting party in September to touch up the paint around the hall. It was agreed by all present that we would like Stuart to paint the kitchen ceiling. He will do this after summer when the weather changes, Nick to liaise with Stuart. Alex raised in June that we could opt for aesthetic sound deadening to both reduce sound reverberance and increase the light in the hall instead of having the hall ceiling painted. Claire has brought some information about getting registered with the Food Health & Safety and shared a document for us to fill in to get us signed up officially to cover us. Claire has organised someone to give us a quote for pest control to comply. Nick put it to the committee for opinions on becoming registered. It was agreed it is a good way forward – Claire has done lots of research on it and is ready to order some of the materials we need to pass the registration (chopping boards, probes, thermometers etc to a value of £100). Approval was given by the whole Committee and thanks to Claire for the time taken to investigate this. Claire raised the suggestion of wired smoke alarms/carbon monoxide detectors. One to discuss at the next meeting. Claire thanked the Committee for the vote of confidence on spending money on the planters and asked for more money for spring bulbs. All agreed it is a good investment. Maggie will talk to Paul about getting discounted bulbs.
Toni
Nick
Bookings
Bookings for July below.
Future events
Coffee&Cake – 26th June. Nick to run with his wife Clare. Not running in August but will run in September. Toni to make a poster with all 3 dates (July, sept, oct).30th August – it was agreed the Hall committee will support the Fete as volunteers where possible.Cabaret screening for cabaret cast and village hall committee members, all welcome, date tbc. 29th November Bingo booked – Xmas cake safe in the afternoon followed by bingo Molly’s pupil could do a talk in September about his upbringing and journey from moving to England from Crimea – Damian is checking his availability.October – Nic Wakely talk (orchids/glass) Nick to liaiseAutumnal Quiz – Nick to run, and 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.
NickToni
Damian
Nick
AOB
Notes from Stella:
Village Hall Committee Meeting – 7/7/25
Sorry that I cannot be with you tonight but I wanted to update everyone and suggest a couple of things:
Meeting Dates – I think we need to set the dates in advance for the year, rather than changing them to suit holidays etc. We decided to use Monday as our meeting day, Alex has meetings at the observatory, the first Monday of every month, so I am proposing that we meet on the second Monday of every month on the following dates:
Wednesday 6th August (Earlier due to Fete)
Mondays
8th September
13th October
10th November
8th December
12th January
9th February
9th March
13th April
11th May – AGM
Kitchen Refurb –
Myself and Alex met with Paul Rigby regarding the kitchen refurb. This is the second meeting I have had with him. I have attached a copy of the first details he sent to me but these were just ideas.
I have now asked him to do 2 designs incorporating the details that we asked him to look at. He will send these designs to us in approximately 2 weeks. One of the designs includes putting new plasterboard walls on either side of the serving area with a smaller manual roller shutter and allowing us space for a tall fridge on the right hand side of the opening.
We then need to meet then to discuss which option we would like him to cost properly. Please let me know if you would like to be involved in this process- it may need a special meeting to discuss the 2 options at the end of July. If not, it will have to be discussed at the August meeting.
During the meeting a couple of issues were discussed that need to be addressed before the kitchen refurb sourced by ourselves. Do we have anyone in the village who is willing to complete the jobs for free or do we need to out source to tradesmen ( 3 quotes before deciding).
Boxing in the boiler
Boxing in the electrics
Baton strips being placed o Kitchen walls ready for PVC cladding
Requests made:
Small stainless steel basin (Hygene)
Locked drawer for sharp knives
Locked cupboard for V.H. consumables
Heated cupboard
Policies Review
I intend to start doing co-ordinating this in September, after the Summer holidays as we are all likely to be busy during this period.
September 24th
We are hosting the Devon Communities Together Meeting at 10.30am. Anyone is welcome to attend but I would also like to provide refreshments for this event, so would welcome help from anyone available to help.
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2025 to 31 March 2026
INCOME
2nd July 2025
EXPENDITURE
2nd July 2025
2024/25
25.2% of 2024/25
2025/26
2024/25
25.2% of 2024/25
2025/26
Balance b/fwd
£5,571.27
Insurance
£723.73
£182.38
£0.00
Non-domestic rates
£0.00
£0.00
£0.00
Hire of Hall
£5,828.56
£1,468.80
£818.90
Cleaning/grass cutting
£1,901.59
£479.20
£370.75
Social Events
£5,782.76
£1,457.26
£3,391.43
Maintenance/Equipment
£45,022.20
£11,345.59
£534.37
Interest
£0.00
£0.00
Water/Gas/Electric
£3,039.75
£766.02
£777.70
Miscellaneous
£43,476.90
£10,956.18
£10,754.00
Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)
£2,457.59
£619.31
£2,027.42
£55,088.22
£13,882.23
£14,964.33
£53,144.86
£13,392.50
£3,710.24
Balance
£16,825.36
Total
£20,535.60
£20,535.60
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Rough hierarchy order.
A parish newsletter brought to you by Gittisham Parish Council and St Michael’s Church
What’s On at the Village Hall
Pierre’s Café Sunday 13th July
Syrian Kitchen Sunday 3rd August
Gittisham Fete Saturday 30th August
Weekly Fitness class Tuesday mornings Folk Dancing Weds evenings Community Kitchen Thurs eve Yoga Friday afternoons
Church 200 Club June Draw Results 1st prize R Hayman 2nd prize J Broadhurst 3rd prize P Marker Church Services Sunday July 13th Holy Communion at 11am Sunday July 27th Morning Worship at 11am Tel 07763 111367
As usual Pierre’s Café will take place on the second Sunday of the month. This time 13th July. Please bear in mind that booking is mostly essential as lunch sold out frequently. Mains are gluten free. Some dessert also. Vegan danish and long fermented croissant. This is a pleasure to feed such friendly customers each months.
Booking Pierre 07545 214940 ******************************
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 antl 2:30 we will serve lunch and drink and dessert £20 for a personCall to book or send a message please 07383 104987
Around the world
Gittisham Flower festival at the church took us on a floral journey around the world. Our talented flower arrangers showed us the cool blues and whites of the Arctic, an explosion from Mount Vesuvius, exotic blooms from Ghana and colours and fragrances of India. If the sight of croissants or the thought of cream teas made us hungry there was plenty of refreshment on offer at the village hall. And all accompanied by the sounds of birds in the tropical forests of Brazil. Helen Hayman says “A HUGE THANKYOU’ to our talented & creative flower arrangers & all who gave of their time & talents to sing at the AMAZING Concert, bake YUMMY cakes & cream teas, prepare & serve DELICIOUS Lunches. And to everyone behind the scenes who helped to make it all run smoothly. A GREAT TEAM effort. But most of all Thank You to all who came & enjoyed a helped to raise just under £2k to help us maintain & care for our beautiful Village Church. THANK YOU ALL so much!
And from Julia Barrett: “An amazing team effort and wonderful weekend! Fabulous flower arrangements, a glorious concert and lovely lunches and array of yummy cakes and cream teas. A big thank you from St Michaels PCC to everyone who gave so generously of their time and talents and to support and enjoy the beauty of our much-loved parish church.
St Michael’s Church Julia Barratt The Reverend Scott Angell after his ordination as a Priest in June at St Paul’s. We look forward to him celebrating his first Eucharist at St Michael’s in August. The sad news is that the Reverend Sue Roberts who has been the Rector in the Honiton Team for nineteen years will be leaving us in the Autumn to take up a new post in Tiverton. There will be an opportunity to say goodbye to Sue and wish her well in her new ministry in due course.
On a more cheerful note! We are very much enjoying the fruits of the labour earlier in the year of the Churchyard Brimbles in the Old Churchyard. What a wonderful transformation! Do come and look! Finally much fun was had by all at the Pet Service especially the Tortoise, who proved to be surprisingly fast when let out of his box! Much to the consternation of the intrigued dogs, the delight of the children and the amusement of the Grown Ups! Next Natter & Nibbles at Gittisham Farm! Saturday 9th August 10-12noon , all welcome! Raffle & memories too! Donations! No need to book! To friends of the Hall, This has been a busy month for Gittisham Hall with lots of private bookings and some wonderful community events! The Father’s day BBQ was particularly well supported with some saying it was the best ever! thank you to Sara for organising a fabulous spread and to Nick and Co for the band! We also enjoyed some great live music from Set in Stone! Thanks to Jess and Toni for organising and Dentry Carpentry for sponsoring this fantastic event!
Your support has enabled us to purchase a fantastic new hand dryer for the ladies loo! Tell us what you think of it! In other news you may have noticed our booking system has changed and we are now using a software program called Hallmaster which has been successfully used by other halls. Any booking queries please email gittishamvillagehallbookings@gmail.com
Congratulations to Connor Davey on passing his phase 1 and graduating in the RAF. His graduation was at RAF Halton on the 18th of June. The passing out parade was accompanied by the RAF Regiment Band and had a Spitfire flyover. His family and friends are very proud and wish him good luck with the next stage in his journey.
Gittisham Village Fete – We Need You!
Saturday 30th August 2025 | From 2.00pm
With just under two months 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 and launching ducks)
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 (class info to be announced on social media)
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
Duck Race Tickets 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.
Special potato class £1 – payable when your seed potato is collected
Sections A,B,C no prize money. Section D prizes 1 st = £1, 2 nd = 50p, 3 rd = 25p
McCann Junior Cup for most points by a competitor age 12-16 in Sections A,B,C
Awards for Best in Show in Sections A and B
The show is open to all residents of Gittisham parish, which includes Gittisham Vale and Hayne Farm estate. We also welcome entries from those who no longer live in the parish, those who actively support the parish, and those with close links to the parish.
Children must be aged 3-11, Juniors must be age 12-16 on Saturday 26th July 2025. Children are welcome to enter Sections A,B,C upon paying the entry fee.
SECTION “C” HOMECRAFT
30 Chocolate Swiss Roll – as attached recipe
31 Vegetable Tart (not exceeding 20cm)–own recipe
32 Sausage Plait – using homemade rough puff pastry
33 Madeira cake
34 A jar of strawberry jam
35 Jar of pickled vegetable(s)– any variety
36 Set of 4 Dorset Buttons
37 Homemade birthday card for a child
38 Photo of a bird in your garden – max size 25cm x 20cm
39 MEN ONLY – 6 Brownies – as recipe
Full details of flower, vegetable and children’s classes available online or from Sue Fallows
Gittisham Parish Council JULY 2025 Report
Four councillors met for the July meeting along with one member of the public.
EDDC Local Plan. David Valentine reported he had spoken to planning consultant Charlie Hopkins regarding representation at the Local Plan inquiry later this year (or early next year). His diary is busy in October, but otherwise he is happy to help. He is not representing any other parish council or party in respect of the current EDDC Local Plan. Councillors resolved to approve expenditure for Charlie Hopkins’s initial assessment. David Valentine will prepare a summary of parish council representations previously made, and give Charlie Hopkins the opportunity to assess the likelihood of GPC being successful in making further representations at the examination in public. Having the initial assessment, David Valentine argued, would provide a better basis on which to consider further expenditure over and above getting Charlie Hopkins’s professional assessment.
Councillors heard that Axminster Town Council is suggesting there were irregularities at EDDC’s Local Plan meetings, but David Valentine cautioned that if the inspector finds the plan unsound, it could open a new can of worms.
Finance. Councillors agreed the finances.
Crimes. April 2025: Cypress Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences. Nether Close: 2 x violence & sexual offences. Meadow Acre: 1 x criminal damage & arson, 1 x violence & sexual offences
Planning applications.
a) 25/0659/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – To take down existing wall to barns 1 and 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
b) 25/0660/VAR – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Variation of Condition number 2 (approved plans) on planning permission 20/0781/FUL (Conversion of barn to holiday let accommodation) proposal to take down existing wall to Barns 1 & 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
Councillors said it was not clear what changes had been made, and Carol Hall agreed to investigate and report back.
Lengthsman. Carol Hall said that FabTrim Landscaping had carried out some lengthsman-type work, including strimming the river so that it is ready for the duck race. He will be strimming the ditches by the village green, and they will be cleared once ground conditions permit. Alex Rowe said he had purchased some cones and road signs for future lengthsman work. It was agreed that a list of items to attend to should be drawn up in the coming months.
Coincidentally it emerged that some council highways contractors had visited to cut drainage splays which direct water from the road into ditches along Parsonage Lane and up to Bellevue and other areas around the village, also they have cleared the drainage holes into the river along.
Play area. Councillors discussed reviving the boules court, after a request from a resident and also having seen the new one in Tipton St John, and it was agreed to investigate how much it would cost to bring it back into use.
Alex Rowe said a resident had been in touch to ask if adult outdoor fitness equipment might be a possibility, and the clerk agreed to investigate although warned that it could come with a significant cost.
Next meeting. Thursday 4th September at 7.30pm in the village hall.
The Hall is available for anyone to hire, as long as they are 18 years or older and that the event aligns with the Hall’s objectives, ie. Improving health, education and welfare.
Bookings: A booking is confirmed only upon receipt of a written confirmation from the Bookings Secretary together with a payment of a 50% non-refundable deposit.
Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 50% will be required, in order, to confirm the booking.
Payment: The hirer must pay, in full the remaining balance of the hire cost, 7 days ahead of the event taking place.
Age: The Hirer, not being a person under 18 years of age, hereby accepts responsibility for being in charge of and on the premises at all times when the public are present and for ensuring that all conditions, under this Agreement, relating to management and supervision of the premises are met.
NB. All under 18’s in the Hall must be supervised by adults.
Event: The hirer will only use the premises for the purposes specified on the booking form and to keep to the agreed timings.
Capacity: The hirer must not exceed the maximum capacity agreed at the time of booking (the full capacity of the Hall is 120 people on the premises).
Temporary Events Notice Licence: The hirer is personally responsible for obtaining a licence to carry out a ‘licensable activity’, eg to sell alcohol. Alcohol must not be sold without the relevant license.
Smoking: No smoking/vaping will take place on the premises during the booking/event.
Accidents: The hirer will report any accidents to a member of The Parish Hall Committee and write these up in the accident book provided at the Hall.
Parking: Parking around the Parish Hall should be considerate of other road users and village residents and not obstruct the main highway or drives.
Noise: The hirer will be respectful of neighbouring properties and keep noise down to an acceptable level during the event. The hirer will ensure that the minimum of noise is made on arrival and departure, particularly late at night. All bookings must end by 12 midnight.
Damages: The hirer is responsible for damages incurred at the event and will arrange and pay for any necessary replacement or repair. The Hall is checked prior to and immediately after the event.
Safety: The hirer will familiarise themselves and attendees with fire precaution procedures, eg. keeping all fire doors clear. They will ensure that young children are kept out of the kitchen, at all times.
Health and hygiene: The hirer will, if preparing, serving or selling food, observe all relevant food health and hygiene legislation and regulations. Please do not leave any food on the premises and ensure that all of the used kitchen work surfaces (including the fridge) are washed and sanitised.
Cleaning: The hirer must leave the hall, toilets and outside areas clean and tidy after the event, including removal of landfill waste and recycling. Any cleaning will be completed during the period of hire.
GDPR: Gittisham Parish Hall Committee will securely store personal information and keep this for a period of up to 2 years before permanently deleting this in accordance with GDPR
Drunk and disorderly behaviour and supply of illegal drugs: The hirer must ensure that care shall be taken to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol. No illegal drugs may be brought onto the premises.
Drunk and disorderly behaviour shall not be permitted either on the premises or in its immediate vicinity.
A member of the Management Committee or an agent of the Committee shall have the right of entry, at all times of the booking – where complaints have been made.
The hirer is responsible for collecting and returning keys to the key lock, opening and locking the Hall, switching off electric lights and power, checking that the cooker has been left in a safe condition, with the isolator switches used.
Cancellation
The Parish Hall reserves the right to cancel a booking in the event of:
(a) the premises being required for use as a Polling Station for a Parliamentary or Local Government election or by-election;
(b) the Parish Hall management committee reasonably considering that (i) such hiring will lead to a breach of licensing conditions, if applicable, or other legal or statutory requirements, or
(ii) unlawful or unsuitable activities will take place at the premises, as a result of this hiring;
(c) the premises becoming unfit for the use intended by the Hirer;
(d) an emergency requiring use of the premises as a shelter for the victims of flooding, snowstorm, fire, explosion or those at risk of these or similar disasters.
In the unfortunate event that we need to cancel your booking, any deposit would be fully refunded at the point of cancellation.
Commercial Gain
If the hirer rents the hall for commercial gain, you are expected to comply with all associated health and safety regulations and have suitable indemnity insurance in place.
Gittisham Parish Hall Committee reserve the right to refuse bookings at their discretion.
A parish newsletter brought to you by Gittisham Parish Council and St Michael’s Church
What’s On at the Village Hall
Coffee&Cake4AKitchen 28th June
Father’s Day BBQ 15th June
Band and Bar 21st June
Please support these events to help us raise vital funding for the upkeep of our beautiful village hall
Weekly Fitness class Tuesday mornings
Folk Dancing Weds evenings
Community Kitchen Thurs eve Yoga Friday afternoons
Pierre’s Café 8th June
Gittisham Fete 30th August
Church 200 Club May Draw Results 1st Prize Ava Marker-Morgan 2nd Prize Nigel Seward 3rd Prize David Fallows
Church Services Pentecost Sunday June 8th
Holy Communion Sunday 29th
June 11am Pet Service the Green
‘Around the World’ Flower Festival in the Church Sat & Sun July 5th& 6thCoffee, Light Lunches and Cream Teas in the Village Hall All day from 10am. Concert in the Church Sat July 5th 4.30 – 5.30 pm ‘Love Songs through the Ages’ Concert Tickets £15 per person with complimentary Pimms. Proceeds to St Michael’s Church For further information contact Julia at Tel 07763111367
Grain to Cream – Ed Hayman
I’m sure you will have noticed the new shed being built at Gittisham Farm on the site of the old farmhouse. It’s now been 14 years since the fire, and a lot has changed both on and off the farm; time does fly. With our calf-rearing facilities upgraded, this shed is the next step in improving animal health and performance, with weaned calves (3 months old) entering the shed and moving on again a few months later. The main benefits will be improved ventilation for the youngstock, labour savings, and a lower stocking rate across all sheds in winter. The weather has been on our side this spring, allowing us to take the 1 st cut of grass silage at the end of April before it went to seed. This means the crop is higher in energy with greater digestibility compared to grass cut at a later growth stage. Allowing the dairy cows to produce more milk from forage, and reduce the proportion of concentrates (Wheat, Rapemeal, etc) in the milking ration. It’s a sharp contrast from last spring, where I think if we had tried to take silage in April, it would have looked like a reenactment of the Somme! I’m sure we’ll soon be complaining that it’s too dry, although the clay-based soils on the farm are very good at retaining moisture. For the third time now, we have planted an acre or so of pumpkins, or a ‘hectare’ to the metrically minded. The first true leaves are showing, along with a flush of weeds, unfortunately. Luckily, I have a tractor-mounted inter-row weeder for the bulk of the work, and a begrudging workforce for the rest! Hopefully, come October, the field will be covered in every variety of pumpkin under the sun.
Cream Tea and Raffle on Saturday 14th June 2-5pm At 5 Bracken Close, Gittisham Vale EX14 2XA All welcome, with donations towards the fabric fund of our parish church. Any donations for the raffle gratefully received. No booking needed, just turn up. St Michael’s Church Julia Barratt
We are blessed here in Gittisham, to enjoy not just on Asencion Day but all year round, the glorious stained-glass window above the altar, showing Christ ascending to heaven with the disciples looking on in awe and wonder. As Thomas Traherne, the C17th priest-poet and mystic wrote: .. our enjoyment of the world is never right till until every morning we awake in Heaven; see ourselves in our Father’s Palace; and look upon the skies, the earth, and the air as Celestial Joys’.
There is definitely a lot to enjoy this summer in and around the Church! As I write, the Church is looking wonderful with the amazing displays of flowers for Bill and Sara’s wedding. And so a very big ‘Thank You’ to the fantastic team of flower arrangers and to all those who helped with preparing the Church and also to the Churchyard Brimble’s for their work in the Churchyard!
Well Done Everyone!
With congratulations to the newlywed couple Bill and Sara
Snapshots of Rural Life – Adam Powell I strongly urge you to sneak off for an hour or less and take a trip back in time at the Thelma Hubert Art Gallery, round the back of Dowell Street Car Park in Honiton. Until the June 28 there is an exhibition of photos by James Ravilious, he was commissioned, in the late 1970s and 1980s, to make a photographic record of rural life around Beaford in Mid- Devon. Living in the Parish of Dolton, he was well known and well liked. He had a habit of chatting to people, sometimes for hours, as they went about their daily tasks, then returning a few days later with a photo he had taken of them, they were often completely unaware of the camera. He used small Leica 35mm cameras, that he probably slipped in a pocket. James adapted his many cameras to reduce glare, as he often shot into the light. As a result, the large prints have detail right to the edges, they are endlessly fascinating. The photos capture intimately the events of the everyday, the people, the animals, and the landscape, in all weathers. There is the teenager running late for school, unaware he is being photographed from the top of the church tower. Three women assist an ewe lambing in a field. I was drawn to a formal photo of men well turned out, taken on Remembrance Day. Another shot captures a young hedge layer, sat back against the hedge he has just laid, he eats his lunch alone in the field. Then there is one of the milk cart half loaded with full churns, very soon to be replaced by the milk lorry from the Milk Marketing Board. And there are many more besides, I would choose any of these photos to hang in my kitchen, where I could look at its detail and composition endlessly. In all James Ravilious took over 80000 photos of rural life in Mid-Devon. This life was a harsh almost a subsistence one, where folk lived by seasonal rhythms; a life that has now been displaced by modern agricultural and desirable rural life. I moved from London to a small Mid-Devon farm in the late 1970s, to say it was a culture shock is an understatement. We milked the cows by hand, making a soft cheese in the kitchen in the evening, to be sold in South Moulton Market the next morning. One of the farm cottages housed the post office, we killed, gutted, and plucked chickens behind the counter, between customers. That post office is of course gone, as is the farm, and village pub, a way of life almost past. But I expect the morning mist still hangs over the River Mole near that village, beautiful as ever. I have talked myself into having another look at those photos…. before June 28. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am—5pm entry free, well worth a donation.
Pierre’s pop-up café will be in Gittisham Village Hall on Sunday 8th June. On the menu is slow-cooked Provençal beef with gratin dauphinois – thinly sliced potatoes baked in the oven with cream and garlic. There will be a vegan version of the potatoes, along with a mushroom and lentil terrine. As usual there will be a selection of home-made cakes and pastries, coffees, teas and soft drinks including Gittisham-grown elderflower cordial served from 10am-4pm. Vegans and coeliacs catered for. If the weather is fine you’ll be able to sit and enjoy your food outside. Please book for lunch if you can, as it helps us with numbers. Call or text Pierre on 07545 214940. Cash and cards accepted.
Gittisham Parish Council JUNE 2025 Report
Six councillors met for the June meeting along with Alasdair Bruce (EDDC) and three members of the public.
Village play area. Councillors discussed the appropriate management of wildness for the wild area, following a comment from a resident about the height of grass and brambles around the tower slide before they were cut. Adam Powell suggested cutting the grass right back and see what flowers next spring. He added that Devon Wildlife Trust had approached him to offer a mini tree nursery, which could be planted in a corner of the play area.
Finance. Councillors agreed the finances, as well as the annual accounts and governance statement for 2024/25.
Crimes. March 2025: Nags Head Road: 1 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x other crime. Nether Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences. Hamlett Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences. Meadow Acre: 1 x vehicle crime
Planning applications.
a) 24/0514/FUL – Land adjacent to Town House Gittisham EX14 3AJ – Demolition of existing agricultural buildings; proposed housing scheme for 6x. CLT-owned affordable homes for rent, and 3x estate-owned open market houses (amended plans)
b) 25/0885/FUL – Unit 3 Iron Bridge Industrial Estate EX14 3AN – Proposed enlargement of existing commercial building to provide additional warehouse space
c) 25/0369/FUL – Roebuck Farm Weston EX14 3PB – Proposed MOT station, hard-standing and widened access track (retrospective application).
Councillors resolved to have no objection to a) or b). Regarding c), members objected to this application which potentially risks increasing vehicle movements in the surrounding area. Alasdair Bruce said many would be aware of the action taken on 23rd May to remove a number of mature trees relating to the widening of the entrance to Roebuck Farm. Councillors expressed their concern that this didn’t appear to be part of the planning application and it was undertaken within the bird nesting season. Alasdair Bruce said he had shared the information at EDDC’s cabinet meeting, and has asked if there is anything that can be done to stop this type of destructive act being perpetrated in the future. The track entrance is in Gittisham parish.
Honiton sports provision. Peter Orchard reported that EDDC have released £200k of S106 money via Honiton Town Council to Honiton Rugby Club for improvements to floodlights and drainage. Work should start this month for completion by the forthcoming season. Part of this sum was a contribution from Baker Estates to Gittisham Parish, which councillors had decided previously was better spent on facilities in Honiton that could benefit Gittisham parishioners. Peter Orchard said that Honiton TC also has access to another pot of money for sports provision. HTC will write to all Honiton-based sports facilities and clubs asking for ideas. The next meeting will take place in September 2025, when decisions will be made on which ideas to fund.
Road closures. 4–6 August road through Alfington closed for Wales and West Utilities work. 7 August 0700–1900 temporary one-way along old A30 adjacent to Honiton Agricultural Show.
Next meeting. Thursday 3rd July at 7.30pm in the parish room.
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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.
Congratulations to Connor Davey on passing his phase 1 and graduating in the RAF. His graduation was at RAF Halton on the 18th of June. The passing out parade was accompanied by the RAF Regiment Band and had a Spitfire flyover. His family and friends are very proud and wish him good luck with the next stage in his journey.
