Alex

Gittisham Village Hall Committe September 2024

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Date 10th September 2024
Present Hamish, Damian, Maggie, Pierre, Sue, Stella, Claire, Alex, Steve (arrived late)
Apologies Nick, Bill, Terry  
Next meet 8th October, 7pm start, 30 minutes early to accommodate discussion on Community Kitchen
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsHamish to use caulking gun around flashing (June meeting).Hamish to replace bathroom tap (June meeting).
Stephen to look at advertising the hall as a flexible workspace (June meeting).
Everyone to look for a noticeboard for foyer (July meeting).
Hamish to make contact with Cordelia re committee membership (September meeting).
Hamish to invite Sara Trumper to the next meeting.
Hamish and Alex to meet on Monday 16th September to progress grant applications. 
Damian to explore grant opportunities presented by Gittisham alumni. 
Pierre, Stella and Alex to bring cooker options to next meeting. 
Damian and Carol to agree a process to reconcile booking income to list of bookings.? to take forwards September cake sale. 
Stephen to agree with Steve M a date for beekeeping talk. 
Hamish to speak to Fullers about Ed Fuller talk and agree date if possible. 
Claire to organise Christmas bingo. 
Pierre to organise Spanish and Flamenco evening for the new year. 
Hamish to look at transferring the card reader so it works on phones.
Committee membersHamish to make contact with Cordelia re committee membership.Hamish
FinanceWelcome to Damian, our new treasurer, who presented the monthly finances (see annex). In spite of the increases to hall prices agreed at the turn of the financial year year-to-date expenditure has exceeded income by nearly £1k. The hall also operated at a loss in the previous two financial years; a third consecutive year operating at a loss will stymy our ability to attract grant funding. 
The village fete was a great success and the Village Fete Committee has kindly agree to donate ~£1200 [exact figure not noted] to the Village Hall. The committee discussed how best to utilise this income and agreed, in line with the request of the Village Fete Committee, to split the proceeds between investing in a new cooker and subsidising for a time-limited period the hiring fees for the weekly Community Kitchen.
The Committee will invite Sara Trumper to the next meeting to discuss how best to utilise these funds and ongoing funding models for the Community Kitchen’s hiring of the hall. 





Hamish
GrantsThe meeting agreed the immediate priorities for grant expenditure as follows: a new range cooker, replacement windows, and new replacement drainage / sewers. (Full list of potential remedial works for the hall updated in annex.)
The committee was unsuccessful in its recent application for grant funding for replacement windows. However, Carol Hall has this month applied to the EDDC locality budget for a £1000 grant to go towards a new cooker. 
Alex is also making a huge effort to explore grant opportunities – thank you Alex! – as follows:
The South West Water grant (video) application is still pending and we await a response.
Alex is submitting another video application to the Sykes Holiday Cottages Community Fund (a national fund). 
Alex has approached EDDC about its Carbon Offset Fund. We are on the list to be visited by EDDC officials so the hall can be assessed.
The lottery grant is re-opening and we agreed to submit another bid for the lower threshold amount. The results of our village hall survey (publicised recently in the gazette) will stand us in good stead here and improve our chances of being successful this time around.    
 In addition Hamish has taken an audio-visual company around the hall. They have provided a quotation for improvement works and suggested grant opportunities to fund the works. 
Hamish and Alex to meet on Monday 16th September to progress applications. 
Damian suggested two ways in which we could leverage famous alumni of the village for possible funding opportunities.
The Panacea Trust (Joanna Southcott’s organisation) has a trust fund which may be approached. And Hardy Wines (Australian wine company) may also want to support the home village of their founder.
Damian to explore further.



























Alex and Hamish
Damian
MaintenanceThe priority is researching new cookers. We formed a cooker sub-committee (Stella, Pierre and Alex) to explore potential options. Hamish will provide a more detailed specification but key points: same size as current cooker, two ovens, electric/induction, real knobs not electric interface. Options to be considered at next meeting.  Pierre, Stella, Alex, Hamish. 

BookingsThe list of bookings for September is provided in the annex. Unfortunately we have now lost the regular toddler group booking. 
We need to ensure that the booking income is reconciled to the list of bookings. Damian to discuss with Carol how this will work in practice.  


Damian/Carol
Future eventsWe have agreed that we will use the last Saturday of every month, 2pm-4pm, to run coffee and cake sales to fund the new cooker. 
Autumn schedule agreed as follows:
Harvest Supper,
Saturday 12th October, organised by the church.Sparklers and hot dogs,
Sunday 3rd November, 5-7pm.Christmas Bingo,
Saturday 30th November, Claire to organise.Gittisham Christmas Cabaret,
Friday 13th and Saturday 14th December.   Steve M beekeeping talk.
Date not yet agreed, Stephen to take forwards.If possible, Ed Fuller to talk on the subject of his Paralympic Gold Medal. Hamish to approach Fullers.
Date not yet agreed.   
Hamish/Carol to advertise the above programmes in the gazette, Alex to advertise on Facebook.
Future events:
Pierre and Fiona are investigating running a Spanish and Flamenco evening to raise funds for the Village Hall! Pierre to investigate and return with dates. Thank you Pierre!  		?





Claire



StephenHamish


Carol/Hamish/Alex


Pierre
AOBHamish to look at transferring the card reader so it works on phones.  Hamish
Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Rough hierarchy order.
New large range cooker
Replace two front windows
Sewerage and drainage pipe replacement
Extractor fans in kitchen
(Rising) damp in southern elevation
Internal repaint including / especially ceiling
Loft insulation
Replace all windows, not just front windows
Bin Store

Gittisham Gazette September 2024

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A monthly community newsletter published by St Michael s Church and Gittisham Parish Council

What s On?

at the village hall

Coffee & Cake 4 A Cooker

2-4pm Saturday 28th Sept

Harvest Supper

Saturday 12th October 7pm Tickets: £3 children for primary age; £6.50 for an adult or secondary school age.

Community Kitchen

Every Thurs, village hall 6.30pm. All welcome to enjoy a free meal and good company

 

Pierre’s Cafe

Sunday 13th October

 

 

 

200 Club

The August draw results

 

Mrs S Fallows 1st prize 75

Mrs A Acland 2nd prize 50

Ava Marker Morgan 3rd prize 25

 

Congratulations to Ed Fuller on an outstanding performance at the Paralympics Paris 2024. Gold in the PR3 Mixed Coxed Fours. (Ed is 2nd from the right)

 

 Gittisham Fete in Photos 2024 – Alex Rowe, Photos by Mark Hemsley & Robert Rowe

Thank you to all the volunteers and supporters for this year’s fete we are still finalising the figures but it’s looking like we raised around £3000! This will be split between the Hall and the Church.

The weather was on our side again for another packed afternoon, the Village was buzzing with visitors enjoying all we had to offer once the fete was opened by Caroline Kolek Honiton’s town Crier!

The Honiton Town Band gave us a music medley, whilst Mikey and Co. took visitors around the village on a cart behind Whiskey. Then at 3pm came the dog Show which was organised by Will W sponsored by Vale Vets. The much enjoyed & anticipated duck race was sponsored by Heltor Fuels

More photos & videos on the website

We will be having a consolidation meeting on Moday 23rd September at 6pm in the hall to discuss areas we can improve for next years fete (August 30th 2025).

 

Memories Paul Wakely

 

One of my earliest memories is going to the flower show at Pomeroy. The marquee was set up on the lawn, now a field, which has its entrance to the right of the main gate.

     For a time I thought the river had been diverted to run close to Pomeroy gardens to form a leat for Gittisham mill, which was situated on the river, but in the 70’s colonel Starr ( who used to live in Coign cottage) lent me the tythe map of the village. He had borrowed it from the records office on parish business. This shows the mill was further downstream, so the leat theory didn’t work. Then I realised when the village mains sewage was put in the treatment plant had to go in the old river bed. To take the river back to the original bed, a brick pipe of about four feet in diameter was built, this also allowed trout and other fish to reach the village. The pipe was finally washed away in one of the floods.

PARISH COUNCIL SEPTEMBER 2024 REPORT

Six councillors met for the September meeting along with Phil Twiss (DCC) and two members of the public.

Broadband. Phil Twiss reported that discussions are taking place between Connecting Devon and Somerset and Airband as to what the company will be able to deliver before its contract ends. A decision is expected at the end of the month. Adam Powell said three newspapers had published his letter outlining the broadband situation in Gittisham.

Outdoor September. Phil Twiss said that this month Devon County Council is running a campaign encouraging people to embrace the great outdoors and consider ditching the car and, where possible, use an alternative form of transport. It’s all part of Outdoor September, a Devon-wide month-long campaign being promoted by Active Devon. Being active, particularly outdoors, benefits your health and wellbeing and during the course of the month Active Devon and their partners from the Devon Local Nature Partnership, Devon Climate Emergency, Devon County Council’s Public Health team and Travel Devon, will be sharing details of events, ideas and tips to help us all make the most of our environment. For more information visit https://activedevon.org

Finance. Councillors agreed the finances.

Crimes.                May 2024: Meadow Acre – 1 x violence & sexual offences.

June 2024: Nether Close – 1 x other theft , Hamlett Close – 1 anti-social behaviour, Meadow Acre – 1 x criminal damage & arson, Parsonage Lane – 1 x violence & sexual offences

Planning applications.

  1. a) 23/1631/MFUL – Coastguard Road Ltd Devonshire Road Heathpark Industrial Estate Honiton EX14 1SD – Development of 17x commercial units
  2. b) 24/1504/FUL – 6 Honeysuckle Drive Honiton EX14 2YL – Proposed single storey rear extension
  3. c) 24/1420/MRES Land Off Hayne Lane Gittisham Honiton EX14 3PD – Reserved matters application in respect of matters of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale for the construction of 37 no. residential dwellings and associated garages, infrastructure and landscaping all in association with outline permission

22/1322/MOUT Councillors had no objections to the applications. Regarding c) they requested that the

work be completed in one go to minimise disruption to existing residents. They expressed concern over the removal of asbestos and urged that this work should be done in a way which complies with the highest standards of safety. Councillors recommended a flat grassed area which can accommodate family-type activities such as

table tennis, and they would like access to the western boundary to be maintained in managed land rather than private ownership.

Road closures. 25 Sept  01 Oct. Devonshire Road/Rowan Close. Minor works opposite old Jurassic Fibre warehouse for land clearance on north side.

Old Elm Road rewilding. Alex Rowe said that EDDC officers were working on a plan for the Old Elm Road rewilding site. The grass matting has now been laid in the area beyond the rocks.

Next meeting. Thursday 3rd October at 7.30pm in the parish room.

Parish Council links      Who’s who                          https://gittisham.org.uk/parish-council/

Emergency Plan               https://gittisham.org.uk/parish-council/emergency-plan/

Parish Council Clerk       Email:                    Tel: 01404 851442

St Michael s Church Julia Barratt

Services and Events

Sunday Sept 8th 11am Eucharist

Sunday 29th September at 6pm Choral Evensong led by the Revd Scott and the Honiton Team Choir when we will be joined by members from our fellow churches

Saturday 21st September from 10.30am Coffee Together and 200 Club Draw

Looking ahead

Sunday Oct 13th October 11am Harvest Festival Service.

Fete and Flower Show

A big Thank you to all who helped to organise and make the Fete and Flower Show such an enjoyable event with the profits shared between the Church and Village Hall. Well Done Everyone!

 The Flower Arrangers creativity and skill were once again on show in the Church and much appreciated by a constant stream of visitors throughout the afternoon. Many of whom were impressed by the beauty of our village parish church; the colourful stained glass windows and unusual box pews, the Beaumont monument, the decorative ceiling and organ pipes, to mention just a few of the Church s distinctive features. With many lingering to look at the photos of past memorable Gittisham events and share personal and family memories of their own associations with the Church.

And as visitors often do, to admire the kneelers and ask who stitched them. Although one visitor, Christine, had no need to ask, as we searched and found the kneeler she herself had stitched, also with her Geoffrey whose picture was shown in one of the photos on display of himself presenting handmade baby hats to the mothers of babies receiving treatment in a hospital in Ghana, hats knitted by the ladies of the Gittisham Craft Club. And so of course, I took a picture of Christine, Geoffrey and also Comfort originally from Ghana.

The weekend was rounded off cheerfully with Hymns and Pimms on Sunday as a thank you to all who support the Church and in so many ways help to make it a place of welcome, beauty and inspiration for all who visit. An enjoyable occasion, singing favourite hymns, often with personal significance to those who chose them, with a half way break for Pimm s to whet the vocal chords. The service ending with a rousing rendering of God save the King in celebration and honour of Ed Fuller and the GB rowing team winning an Olympian Gold Medal! Though I reckon the proud parents deserve a medal too!

Gittisham Gazette August 2024

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August 2024

 

 

A monthly community newsletter published by St Michael s Church and Gittisham Parish Council

What s On? at the village hall

 

Saturday 3rd August Flower & Produce Show

 

Sunday 11th August Pierre s Caf 07545 214940

Saturday 31st August Gittisham Fete

 

Community Kitchen A free hot meal for all every Thursday at 6.30pm

 


Our very own Paralympian Rower

 

 

 

 

 

Ed s heats are on Friday 30th August and the final is on Sunday 1st September

You can do it Ed!

Make every stroke count!

CHAAA

 

 

St Michael s 200 Club

June

1st Joanna Marker 75

2nd Ava Marker Morgan 50

3rd Mrs P Broadhurst 25

 

July

1st Alan Broom 75

2nd Ruby Marker Morgan 50

3rd Stephen Howe 25

 

If you would like to join contact Janet Twist, the 200 Club administrator email Tel 01404 45484. At 3 a ticket per month, this is a simple and affordable way of helping to keep our beautiful village Church open. Currently it costs 100 per day to maintain and keep St Michael s open.

 

Coffee and Cake for Cancer

Thank you to all those who supported the afternoon of coffee and cake at the village hall on 27th July. We raised 342 for Breast Cancer Now

 

 

Parish Snippets

Some years ago when I was walking the postmans path from Kercombe up to Gittisham common, I noticed a drain pipe coming out of the side of the hill. A few days later I mentioned this to Mrs (Rosemary) Marker, ‘ho‘ she said that was to drain the fox hole, for a split second I thought why would anybody want to drain a fox’s hole. Then I remembered that there had been an ammunition dump in the sand pits along Beech Walk during the war. I suppose there are worse places to be on guard ! (Paul Wakley)

 

 

Gittisham Parish Council

No meeting in August

 

Next meeting Thursday 5th September at 7.30pm in the parish room.

 

 

The Beehive, Honiton presents

INSIDE OUT 2 (U)

Thu 22 Aug – 11am. Adults 8, U16’s 7, Family x4 26

Teenager Riley’s mind headquarters is undergoing a sudden

demolition to make room for something entirely unexpected: new

Emotions. Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust.

 

Village Fete Alex Rowe

Just under a month to go until of Village Fete, a celebration of our fantastic community. Spread the word to your friends and family. Following on from last year we have Honiton Town band playing a medley of pieces once the fete is opened by Honiton s town crier from 2pm.

At 3pm the competitive dog show will be taking place in Will s field keep an eye out for the classes which will be shared out on social media before the fete.

Grab a cream tea in the Village Hall then hitch a pony and trap ride passing the Morris dancers on your way to the church where you can view the flower display and classic vehicles on the village green. Stoll back visiting the stalls along the main village avenue & Will s field in time for the start of the Duck race around 4:30pm.

As always, we are in need of keen volunteers to spend an hour of their afternoon either helping with car parking, cream teas, cake stall (cake baking), ice creams, the bar, tombola, dog show, setup and pack away.

We are very thankful to the Parish Council, The Pig, Vale Vets and Heltor Fuels for their support! This has meant we can maintain prizes for the Dog Show and Duck Race. I ll be knocking on doors over August selling Duck race tickets they are 1. First prize is 100, 2nd 50, 3rd 25, 4th 10

Stallholders and volunteers contact me pitches are by donation so if you know of a local craftsperson that would like have a pitch share the details. Keep an eye on the Village WhatsApp and the website gittisham.org.uk/fete for updates

 

The Tom Putt Apple Paul Wakley

 

The apple Tom Putt apple is supposed to have been named for an 18th-century landowner, Thomas Putt of Combe (Gittisham), who died in 1787 and was nicknamed “Black Tom”.

 

There is a Tom Putt apple tree in the community orchard at the village playground and another in the churchyard.

 

Some of the Putts were keen gardeners, one, Anna Maria Putt, who I believe lived in Pomroy. Had her paintings, drawings and quotations that she had done, made up into four volumes which she had bound in Honiton in 1789. The books were shown on an Antiques Road Show in 1991 from Darlington. They were then valued at between 3000-4000.

Grain to Cream Russell Hayman

After Helen and I had our trip of a life time in the USA during June which had the added benefit of missing the run up to the general election it is back to good old Blighty. Yes, they have space (directions on the sat nav 200 miles turn left) was not uncommon and a massive hole they call the Grand Canyon which really is big but it did get quite hot 46 C. it s good to be back and see some green. Edmund was keeping the show on the road and confirmed what I already knew. I may be useful but I am far from essential. Silageing has been on the go and we are preparing for harvest so we need some good weather now it does not take long to spoil.

We have wheat and oats this year no oilseed rape which is a good crop to have in the rotation for its soil improvement but it has become very risky to grow and given the horrible autumn we had for sowing last year I am so glad I did not take the risk. We are always looking to how to improve what we do and having a rotation which helps the soil is a major part of that so will have to find a way around it. The wheat and oats are all for animal feed the oats will be all fed to our own stock and about half the wheat is sold rest goes into our animals. It is really difficult to grow wheat for milling in the southwest not impossible but the damp weather compared to the east of the country make it a bit of a lottery plus the bread mills are mostly in the east so any premium is reduced by haulage costs and there is always the risk it may be rejected once it gets there. Animals are so good at making food we can t eat into something highly nutritious plus tasty! ( Angus is so much better than Bison which taste like they look by the way) And what comes out the back in such lovely volumes does wonders for the soil in truth without them the farm would not be sustainable.

We have also been topping the grazed grass, this is to cut off the seed heads which appear during the summer which are not as nutritious and encourage fresh growth to come forward which is both tastier and better feed. The barn owls have done well this year there were six up in the shed this year apparently. I was not here to see them so assuming four chicks usually just see two. I never go to check just what I happen to see as I know my ugly mush will scare them off!!

Pierre s Cafe

 

For Pierre’s next pop-up caf on 11th August in Gittisham Village Hall he will be serving a Ploughman s lunch with a French twist. The main element is a p t en croute – a French meat pie with pork and chicken, served with a range of tempting salads, raw veg, fruit, cheese and chutney.  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.

Environmental Summer Bucket List (Part 2)

Hi there, my name is May and I m a 16-year-old from Gittisham who s passionate about environmental issues, especially the climate crisis. I have just finished my GCSEs and am enjoying a long summer, and thought I d put together a bucket list of some small things you can do to help the planet which make a real difference. (This is part 2, you ll find points 1-4 in the July Gazette.)

5. Attend a local climate march or talk on the issue. I think a really important part of addressing the climate crisis is educating yourself and those around you, especially as in the UK we are currently less affected by the issue than in other parts of the world. I have also met so many like-minded people by attending these sorts of events, which can feel very liberating when it s an issue that few people in power seem to focus on.

6. Planning on going abroad? Research how you can travel more sustainably. Flying is one of the worst things for the planet, with the average plane emitting 340 times more than the average car. I really recommend the Eurostar from my own experience, though there are other ways you can travel abroad too such as by boat.

Have a great summer everyone!

 

St Michael s Gittisham Julia Barratt


 

Summertime and the living is easy. George Gershwin s words could be aptly applied to August, when many of us take holidays or perhaps visit our

local beaches just a few miles away, or simply make the most of a break in our normal routines to wind down and take life a bit more easily. However, while

summer is a season, it is also a state of mind. We all have periods in life, which are summer-like but can lead us to forget or take for granted the Giver of all good things. So what better way to remember than in music and song; to come together with friends and neighbours to sing our favourite hymns and relax afterwards with a glass of Pimm s! Especially the day after the Fete in our beautiful flower filled Church.

 

A reminder also that the Church is usually open every day 10am- 5pm over the summer but we do need a few more volunteers to help keep it open. Please contact Julia () if you able to assist.

 

Church Services Sunday August 11 th at 11am followed by refreshments

Sunday Sept 1 st at 4pm Hymns and Pimms

 

A Git in Wales Alex Rowe

Last week I made one of my rare trips out of the county of Devon to help steward the metalwork section at the Royal Welsh Show, much like the Devon County Show the Welsh is on the National Blacksmiths Competition Circuit that tours many of the larger shows, the smiths bring static items that are setup and displayed by us these are then judged and the overall winner and reserve winning 10 & 4 points respectively towards the National competition at the end of the year these are added and the winner becoming the Static National Champion Blacksmith.

 

I got involved through my time studying in Hereford 5 years ago and it is nice to catch up with the metalwork team each year. We also were fed well with free stewards breakfast and supper over the 6 days!

Gittisham Gazette July 2024

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A monthly community newsletter published by St Michael s Church and Gittisham Parish Council

What’s On? at the village hall

 

Sunday 14th July Pierre’s Caf 07545 214940

 

Saturday 27th July 2-3pm Coffee & Cake for Cancer

 

Sunday 28th July 12.30-2.30pm Mary’s Syrian Kitchen 07383 104987

 

Saturday 3rd August Flower & Produce Show

 

Saturday 31st August Gittisham Fete

 

Community Kitchen A free hot meal for all every Thursday at 6.30pm

 

FitforLife class every Tuesday morning

 

Yoga with Alison 3rd Tues of the month

 

Folk Dance Club Wednesday evenings

 

Tufty Tots Toddlers Thursday 9.30-11.30

 

Yoga with Angela Fridays 1pm

 

 

 

Bees in your chimney?

The best way to get rid of a swarm in a chimney is to make a cold fire with lots of smoke and no flame. If the bees have not been there long they will normally exit the chimney. Even if they’ve been there a while it might be worth a go, otherwise it’s a rather protracted job to get them out.

 

St Michael s 200 Club

If you would like to join contact Janet Twist, the 200 Club administrator email Tel 01404 45484. At 3 a ticket per month, this is a simple and affordable way of helping to keep our beautiful village Church open. Currently it costs 100 per day to maintain and keep St Michael s open.

 

St Michael s Services Sunday July 14th 11am Holy Communion

Sunday 28th July 11am Morning Worship

Sat July 20th 10.30- 12 Coffee Together and 200 Club Draw

 

 

Christmas Cabaret

Is there a sketch writer in you struggling to get out or perhaps you are a performer? Our Christmas Cabaret needs sketches involving the humorous side of the Gittisham community plus musicians poets etc
If you can help, please contact Sarah Agg-Manning on 01404 851177 or 

 

 

Gittisham Community Land Trust

The planning application has just been submitted for 6 affordable rent homes and 3 Combe Estate owned open market houses on the land with the agricultural buildings to the west of Town House (in the village).

You now have the opportunity to add your comments to those of the Parish Council, which having initiated the formation of the Gittisham Community Land Trust are fully supportive of these proposals. You can reply via the East Devon planning portal or by email to EDDC, with the reference 24/0514/FUL (with your name and address).

The 6 affordable rent dwellings will provide two 3-bed and four 2-bed dwellings and will be developed and managed by a Housing Association. Any person who wishes to apply for an affordable dwelling must be registered with Devon Home Choice and show that they are in Housing Need and that they have a Local Connection. The Allocations Plan sets out the criteria which will be taken into account when allocating the dwellings when they are ready for occupation. A copy of the Allocations Plan can be found on the GCLT web site at www.gittisham.org.uk/clt.

 

Gittisham Table Tennis Tournament 2024

Now the football is nearly over and we are guaranteed a summer of balmy sunny evenings, last call to join our village table tennis tournament – open to men, women and older children. Message Damian Furniss on 07905 710487 via WhatsApp if you want to join in and then after every game. I’ll invite you to join a GTTT2014 WhatsApp Group so people can organise matches. Round Robin format: everyone plays everyone else once, 3 games of up to 11 points, 2 clear points as per standard rules.

 https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zqnhsg8/revision/3

The league will be settled by points won to incentivise playing all your games, playing for every point, and close games.

 

Whether you call it Table Tennis, Ping Pong or Whiff Whaff – Good luck! The magnificent trophy will be presented at Gittisham village fete on Saturday August 31st.

 

 

Environmental Summer Bucket List (Part 1)

Hi there, my name is May and I m a 16-year-old from Gittisham who s passionate about environmental issues, especially the climate crisis. I have just finished my GCSEs and am enjoying a long summer, and thought I d put together a bucket list of some small things you can do to help the planet which make a real difference.

1. Switch to a more ethical bank. Many of us aren t aware that many banks invest in fossil fuels, though actually since 2015 the 60 largest international banks have donated $5.5 trillion dollars to the fossil fuel industry. Some of the worst banks to mention include HSBC and Barclays, whereas the Co-operative bank is known for its more environmental practices. You can use the interactive website Fossil Banks to find out how much money your bank invests in specific fossil fuel practices.

2. Fancy a barbecue? Try veggie burgers. You can reduce your carbon footprint significantly by eating less meat, with one kg of beef having a carbon footprint that s 24 times larger than one kg of pulses.

3. Volunteer locally. One of my goals this summer is to start volunteering for an environmental charity, such as the WWF, or somewhere like a charity shop, which promotes reusing things rather than constantly buying new items, whilst also giving to a good cause. I think it would be really rewarding personally as well to start volunteering (though I m not sure if I ll be saying that when I m behind a counter rather than lazing in the garden)!

4. Try and buy less new clothes. The IPCC recently said that one of the top 3 things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint is to buy less new clothes and instead buy second hand. I have been trying to buy less and less new clothes for a number of years now, which I ve found quite hard being a teenage girl, but recently realised that all the clothes I ve bought in the last year have been second hand. I mainly buy from charity shops, though I also love a particular stall at Totnes market where you can find so many bargains. If you prefer to shop online, I really recommend the secondhand apps Depop and Vinted.

To be continued next month Have a great summer everyone!

 

Mary’s Syrian Kitchen and Pierre’s Cafe

The village hall is hired out to 2 exciting dining events this month: the well known and loved Pierre ‘s Cafe and another event, already very popular in Ottery and in West Hill is Mary s Syrian Kitchen. Here s what they re offering and how to book:

 

This Sunday 14th July the theme of my caf will be ” This is a Revolution”. England then France decide to vote differently after years asking something need to change. I am proud to have a foot in each countries. My menu will be French ratatouille served with beef or vegan burger, homemade and not as Mc Donald, French countryside way, with an eggs cooked in sauce and lettuce. This is a old way recipe. Lots of cakes, croissants and more. Booking 07545 214940. Bring your own alcoholic drinks. Gittisham Village hall, 10am to 4pm

 

Hi everyone. Mary s Syrian Kitchen will have a pop up in Gittisham Village Hall on the 28th July. We will have Syrian Food and desserts and tea and coffee. Start from 12.30-2.30. Please call to book 07383 104987 (see Facebook page too)

PARISH COUNCIL JULY 2024 REPORT

Seven councillors met for the July meeting along with Alasdair Bruce (EDDC) and two members of the public.

Hayne Farm walkabout. Mark Sexton from Baker Estates has compiled an audit list of action points, following the walkabout with parish councilors and some Hayne Farm residents on 2nd July. This includes points such as lampposts not working, removal of weeds, filling in fences, trimming hedges and planting trees.

DCC Highways. In his absence, Phil Twiss (DCC) compiled a report to update the parish council on the county s highways. Maintaining and improving the highway network across Devon remains a high priority for DCC, where better weather following a frustrating and prolonged winter period is helping staff to get to grips with the backlog of road surface defects, including potholes. An additional 12m has been transferred in the 2024/25 budget and is being allocated to:

         Serviceability repairs and patching across the network (isolated and larger areas of potholes)

         Drainage cleaning and repairs (prevention reduces the need for repair)

         White lining

Both the serviceability repairs and patching along with the drainage improvements will be prioritised using highways intelligence data, together with input from local members like Cllr Twiss, town and parish councils. A non-safety defect patching order has been scheduled for parts of Old Elm Road.

Finance. Councillors agreed the finances.

Crimes. April 2024: 6 x violence and sexual offences, 3 x anti-social behavior, 4 x public order.

Planning applications.

a)       24/0514/FUL – Land adjacent to Town House, Gittisham – Demolition of existing agricultural buildings. Proposed housing scheme for 6no. CLT-owned affordable homes for rent, and 3no. Combe Estate-owned open market houses

b)      24/1197/PIP – Land Adjacent To Hamlet House, Nags Head Road, Gittisham – Permission in principle application for the conversion of an existing building into a single dwelling

Councillors had no objections to either application, and said they welcomed the proposals to incorporate renewable energy into the development at a). Regarding b), councillors noted that the land is in a flood risk zone.

Planning. Alasdair Bruce said he would be speaking to EDDC s scrutiny committee to discuss the way in which the Combe Farm shop planning application had been decided.

Lengthsman. Carol Hall said that Len Abbott had resigned as lengthsman. Councillors thanked him for his outstanding service and dedication to the parish. The scope of lengthsman work will be discussed at the September parish council meeting.

Scams. Janet Twist said that new figures reveal more than 32 million suspicious emails have been reported to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service, with more than a third of all emails reported in the last year.

Play area. Maggie Walker said the wild area was flourishing, and encouraged all to use the village play area particularly over the summer.

Next meeting. Thursday 5th September at 7.30pm in the parish room.

 

Parish Council links Who s who https://gittisham.org.uk/parish-council/

Emergency Plan https://gittisham.org.uk/parish-council/emergency-plan/

Parish Council Clerk Email: 

 

 

 

GITTISHAM COMMUNITY LAND TRUST [GCLT]

The GCLT was established in 2018 with the objective of providing an affordable housing scheme to meet an identified local (village and immediate hinterland) need for rented accommodation. The GCLT, in partnership with The Combe Estate, was able to identify a number of possible sites and a preferred site was agreed at a public meeting in May 2019. Then there was COVID. A detailed proposal was presented to a further public meeting in June 2021. There have been many twists and turns over the past 3 years and it has taken much longer than expected to get to this stage but a Full Planning Application has now been registered and validated with the planning department at EDDC.

The application is for the Demolition of existing agricultural buildings. Proposed housing scheme for 6no. CLT owned affordable homes for rent, and 3no. Estate owned open market houses.

The site is the land with the agricultural buildings to the west of Town House.

The 6 affordable rent dwellings will provide 2no 3 bed and 4no 2 bed dwellings and will be developed and managed by a Housing Association. The planning application number is 24/0514/FUL . The application can be viewed in full using the East Devon planning portal or direct by email to EDDC.

The Parish Council having initiated the formation of the GCLT are fully supportive of these proposals. It is difficult to predict a date for completion of the scheme and we still have to find a Housing Association development partner but this is significant milestone in meeting the objectives of the GCLT.

As a reminder, any person who wishes to apply for an affordable dwelling must be registered with Devon Home Choice and show that they are in Housing Need and that they have a Local Connection. The Allocations Plan sets out the criteria which will be taken into account when allocating the dwellings when they are ready for occupation. A copy of the Allocations Plan can be found on the GCLT web site at www.gittisham-clt.org.uk . More information about Devon Home Choice can be found on www.devonhomechoice.com .

David Valentine, Director and Chair of Gittisham Community Land Trust

 

 

 

St Michael s Gittisham Julia Barrat

 

Around the Parishes

We are pleased to welcome our newly ordained deacon, the Rev d Scott Angell to the Honiton Mission Team and look forward to welcoming him to St Michael’s soon. For more information about services in and around the parishes visit https://honitoncofe.org/ Paper copies are available in the church.

 

Sea Sunday July 14th

Join us as we celebrate Sea Sunday. A day when we remember and say prayers for all the brave men and women who work at sea and for the work of the mission to seafarers which provides essential services for seafarers working far from home often in dangerous and lonely conditions. As the summer holidays begin we also remember the work of the RNLI and all who help to save lives at sea and keep our coasts and beaches safe.

 

As I pray also for blessing and safe keeping for all who will be embarking on their summer holidays shortly that it may be a time of relaxation and refreshment and also hopefully not too much rain!

 

200 Club winners June Please contact Julia Barratt

 

Gittisham Village Hall Financial Report 2024

by

Financial Year End Report 1 April 2023-31 March 2024

Income:
Hall hire, a 7% reduction compared to the previous year.
Social events, a 23% reduction compared to the previous year.
The Village Hall received a grant towards the Community Kitchen of £992.45 and earned
£507.98 in interest on the reserve Account.
The Village Hall Committee approved a draw down of £2000 from the Reserve Account.
Total income of £9474.10.

Expenditure:
Insurance increase of 7% on previous year.
Water/gas/electric, an increase of £858.05, a 39% increase on the previous year.
Cleaning/grass cutting, £271.05 more then the previous year, 36% increase.
Hall/equipment maintenance, £2215.58, up 61% on the previous year, external painting, a
new gas water boiler and the removal of an old shed.
The stipend paid to the booking clerk and treasurer.

Expenditure increased by £4136.36, to a total of £11597.01.

The Reserve Account balance £24811.22.

Janet Twist
Treasurer
28 June 2024

Village Hall Annual General Meeting 2024

by
DateTuesday 4th July 2023, 7:30pm, Village Hall garden.Meeting opened 1935Meeting ended 1954
PresentCommittee: Pierre, Hamish, Bill, Terry, Alex, Sue, Steve, Janet, ClaireMembers of Public: Damian, Owen
ApologiesNick, Janet, Cordelia, Stella, Maggie
Next AGMTBC
ItemDetails
Minutes of the 2023 AGMThe meeting agreed the previous year’s AGM minutes.
Chair’s reportChairman’s Report for the year 2023 to 2024We have a good cross section of regular bookings, including the dance club, yoga, Pierre’s kitchen, and keep fit.  We are also very fortunate to have the popular Community Kitchen as a regular weekly booking.  Thanks to all regular groups who book the hall and to Sara Trumper and helpers for sustaining the community Kitchen and to Carol Hall for the successful application for £2,244 from Devon’s Growing Community Fund. The committee is very grateful for this funding that supports both the community and the village hall.
Through the year the committee have arranged some excellent events including regular quizzes, the return of the ever popular Burns Night, skittles, Father’s Day BBQ –  in perfect weather again and with a live band (thank you Nick). A special thanks to Carol Hall for pushing the Hall on social media, resulting in more one-off and regular bookings.
Over the course of the year we have seen stable bookings, but with a lower revenue than last year. Unfortunately costs have also grown and the Hall has made a loss over the period, despite the significant grant from Devon.  As a result of a second year of loss-making we have had to increase hire charges, which we hope should bring the hall back to at least break even. Hire charges were agreed at the June 2024 meeting.
As Chair I would like to extend my thanks to all of those on the committee and those who helped when called upon outside the committee.  Particular thanks to Janet who has resigned from the post of Treasurer and has kindly agreed to support the incoming treasurer, Damian Furniss.  Janet has improved further our processes and has been exceptionally diligent in her duties, to the benefit of the Hall and the community.
Treasurer’s reportFinancial Year End Report: 1 April 2023-31 March 2024
Income:Hall hire, a 7% reduction compared to the previous year.Social events, a 23% reduction compared to the previous year.The Village Hall received a grant towards the Community Kitchen of £992.45 and earned £507.98 in interest on the reserve Account.The Village Hall Committee approved a drawdown of £2000 from the Reserve Account.Total income of £9474.10.
Expenditure:Insurance increase of 7% on previous year.Water/gas/electric, an increase of £858.05, a 39% increase on the previous year.Cleaning/grass cutting, £271.05 more than the previous year, 36% increase.Hall/equipment maintenance, £2215.58, up 61% on the previous year, external painting, a new gas water boiler and the removal of an old shed.The stipend paid to the booking clerk and treasurer.
Expenditure increased by £4136.36, to a total of £11597.01.The Reserve Account balance was £24811.22 at year end.Janet Twist Treasurer 28 June 2024
Election of officersHamish was nominated and re-elected as Chair. Nick was nominated and re-elected as Vice-Chair. Damian Furniss was nominated and elected as Treasurer. The Committee expressed its sincere thanks to Janet Twiss for her diligent work in the role.No volunteer stepped forward to take the Secretary vacancy, so this remains vacant. Gillian Coates was nominated and agreed as the auditor for 2024/25.Carol Hall will continue in her role as Bookings Clerk. With Janet stepping down the VHC Charity has just two trustees, Hamish and Nick. Sue Fallows agreed to step forwards as a third trustee.
Action: Janet and Sue to liaise on appropriate steps to add Sue as a trustee.   
AOBThe meeting expressed its thanks to all who had supported the hall in the year, particularly Janet as outgoing Treasurer, and the committee members who had supported the weekly community kitchen. 
DateTuesday 4th July 2023, 7:30pm, Village Hall garden.Meeting opened 1935Meeting ended 1954
PresentCommittee: Pierre, Hamish, Bill, Terry, Alex, Sue, Steve, Janet, ClaireMembers of Public: Damian, Owen
ApologiesNick, Janet, Cordelia, Stella, Maggie
Next AGMTBC
ItemDetails
Minutes of the 2023 AGMThe meeting agreed the previous year’s AGM minutes.
Chair’s reportChairman’s Report for the year 2023 to 2024We have a good cross section of regular bookings, including the dance club, yoga, Pierre’s kitchen, and keep fit.  We are also very fortunate to have the popular Community Kitchen as a regular weekly booking.  Thanks to all regular groups who book the hall and to Sara Trumper and helpers for sustaining the community Kitchen and to Carol Hall for the successful application for £2,244 from Devon’s Growing Community Fund. The committee is very grateful for this funding that supports both the community and the village hall.
Through the year the committee have arranged some excellent events including regular quizzes, the return of the ever popular Burns Night, skittles, Father’s Day BBQ –  in perfect weather again and with a live band (thank you Nick). A special thanks to Carol Hall for pushing the Hall on social media, resulting in more one-off and regular bookings.
Over the course of the year we have seen stable bookings, but with a lower revenue than last year. Unfortunately costs have also grown and the Hall has made a loss over the period, despite the significant grant from Devon.  As a result of a second year of loss-making we have had to increase hire charges, which we hope should bring the hall back to at least break even. Hire charges were agreed at the June 2024 meeting.
As Chair I would like to extend my thanks to all of those on the committee and those who helped when called upon outside the committee.  Particular thanks to Janet who has resigned from the post of Treasurer and has kindly agreed to support the incoming treasurer, Damian Furniss.  Janet has improved further our processes and has been exceptionally diligent in her duties, to the benefit of the Hall and the community.
Treasurer’s reportFinancial Year End Report: 1 April 2023-31 March 2024
Income:Hall hire, a 7% reduction compared to the previous year.Social events, a 23% reduction compared to the previous year.The Village Hall received a grant towards the Community Kitchen of £992.45 and earned £507.98 in interest on the reserve Account.The Village Hall Committee approved a drawdown of £2000 from the Reserve Account.Total income of £9474.10.
Expenditure:Insurance increase of 7% on previous year.Water/gas/electric, an increase of £858.05, a 39% increase on the previous year.Cleaning/grass cutting, £271.05 more than the previous year, 36% increase.Hall/equipment maintenance, £2215.58, up 61% on the previous year, external painting, a new gas water boiler and the removal of an old shed.The stipend paid to the booking clerk and treasurer.
Expenditure increased by £4136.36, to a total of £11597.01.The Reserve Account balance was £24811.22 at year end.Janet TwistTreasurer28 June 2024
Election of officersHamish was nominated and re-elected as Chair. Nick was nominated and re-elected as Vice-Chair. Damian Furniss was nominated and elected as Treasurer. The Committee expressed its sincere thanks to Janet Twiss for her diligent work in the role.No volunteer stepped forward to take the Secretary vacancy, so this remains vacant. Gillian Coates was nominated and agreed as the auditor for 2024/25.Carol Hall will continue in her role as Bookings Clerk. With Janet stepping down the VHC Charity has just two trustees, Hamish and Nick. Sue Fallows agreed to step forwards as a third trustee.
Action: Janet and Sue to liaise on appropriate steps to add Sue as a trustee.   
AOBThe meeting expressed its thanks to all who had supported the hall in the year, particularly Janet as outgoing Treasurer, and the committee members who had supported the weekly community kitchen. 

Village Hall Committee July 24

by
Date 11th June 2024
Present Hamish, Alex, Claire, Terry, Sue, Janet, Steve, Bill, Pierre
Apologies Cordelia, Stella, Nick, Maggie
Next meet TBC
This meeting was shorter than usual as it followed the AGM, minutes of which are published separately. 
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsAll to return at next meeting to discussion of how to make up community kitchen grant shortfall.  
Stephen to look at advertising the hall as a flexible workspace.
Hamish to use caulking gun around flashing. 
Hamish to replace bathroom tap. 
Carol to book Smeatharpe Aerodrome talk.
Hamish to schedule Steve M for beekeeping talk in September.Sue to schedule agri-talk in October.
Nick to contact cabaret team and get some dates in diary for end of summer.
Stephen to approach Villages in Action.
Everyone to look for a noticeboard for foyer.
FinanceJanet updated the meeting with the latest accounts. See annex.  
We have been successful in receiving a £1000 grant for the community kitchen. Thank you to Carol for progressing the application. Unfortunately this is £1400 less than we bid for and means that the annual costs for the community kitchen hiring the hall will no longer be fully covered by grant payments. 
The committee discussed potential options to make up for this shortfall without compromising the ongoing sustainability of the village hall. The committee felt it was important, not least in order to meet the guidance of the Charity Commission, for the hall not to lose money in a third consecutive year. Equally the committee recognised the importance of the community kitchen continuing as a weekly event providing valuable social cohesion. 
Hamish will accept the £1000 grant. This will cover the community kitchen’s booking fees until end of August. We will return to the discussion of how to make up the shortfall at the next meeting.  
The meeting considered other ways to significantly increase revenue. Options considered included brownies or scout troops renting the hall and offering the hall as a mobile working space. Carol has advertised the first of these and Stephen to look into the last option.  










Stephen
GrantsWe briefly touched on the South West Water grant and the Locality budget grant. But we need a more detailed discussion about these at the next meeting. 
Hamish has taken an audio-visual company around the hall. They will provide a quotation for improvement works but will also explore grant options to fund the works. To update at next meeting.  
MaintenanceSmart gas meter. Is this still being installed? We didn’t discuss.
The flower and produce committee are purchasing tables which they will gift to the hall. Thanks Sue for organising this.


BookingsSee annexe for full list of July bookings. 
Future eventsWell done to everyone on Father’s Day BBQ. £200 taken. A great day and a great atmosphere. 
Upcoming eventsIf England reach the semi-finals we will put it on in the hall. 
No event in August as flower and produce show and fete.  Steve M has agreed to do beekeeping talk. Thanks Hamish. Hamish to get in touch and set a September date. 
Agri-talk to happen in October. Sue to organise a date. Thanks Sue.  
Cabaret rubber needs to meet the road. Nick to make contact and get meetings in diaries. 



Hamish


Hamish

Sue
Nick
AOBNone
Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Not in hierarchy order.
(Rising) damp in southern elevation
Extractor fans in kitchen
Drainage pipe replacement
Internal repaint including / especially ceiling
Loft insulation
Replace all windows, not just front windows
New large range cooker
Bin Store
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2024 to 31 March 2025Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2024 to 31 March 2025
INCOMEEXPENDITURE
2023/2401.04.23-30.06.231.04.24 – 30.06.242023/241.04.23-30.06.231.04.24-30.06.24
Balance brought forward3,627.91Insurance690.380.000.00
Non-domestic rates0.000.000.00
Hire of Hall5,588.852,729.301,545.90Cleaning/grass cutting1,019.62275.00499.59
Social Events1,371.36149.65359.29Maintenance/Equipment5,840.55548.10182.96
Interest0.000.000.00Water/Gas/Electric3,031.87636.48599.27
Miscellaneous2,005.915.912,244.00Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)1,014.59944.59725.35
2007.17
Balance5769.93
Total7777.107777.10
Redwood Deposit A/c£25,654.20
Includes annual interest of £842.98
Father’s Day event in JunePPL/PRS licence paid under misc. £162.00.
Cleaning Materials and first aid kits purchased £160.01.

Village Hall Committee June 24

by
Date 11th June 2024
Present Hamish, Alex, Claire, Terry, Sue Janet (left early), Bill, Maggie, Nick
Apologies Cordelia, Pierre, Stella, Steve
Next meet AGM: Tuesday 2nd July followed by usual meeting
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsHamish to circulate new fee structure for approval.  – done and to be agreed during the meeting
Janet to add signatories to bank account.  done
Alex to check and amend website re deposit taking.   Its on the booking form
Hamish to write to Combe Estate requesting a copy of lease –  not done but have copy of lease.   However there still needs to be a discussion with the Estate wrt to future grants to ensure we comply and permission to do some more work to the Hall ( windows etc)Nick to progress Victoria Windows quotation.
Alex to lead fix of shed roof – Alex has prepared a quote @£22/sheet –  6 needed.  £132 cost    OK please proceed.
Hamish to use caulking gun around flashing Hamish to replace bathroom tap Hamish to advertise Father’s Day BBQ and liaise with Damien –  done needs to be done again.
Carol to book Smeatharpe Aerodrome talk – not done yet
Hamish to approach Steve M re beekeeping talk – not done yet
Stephen to approach Villages in Action –  done
Everyone to look for a noticeboard for foyer – still to be done
Alex to progress Gazette MS Forms survey questions –  done to be discussed in the meeting
FinancesJanet presented the accounts for the month. See annexe. 
Thanks to Carol for help with the PRS license.  Now need to define income.  Janet has submitted.  Defined income £1,600 which should reduce cost of the license.
Smart gas meter appointment was planned – but it was cancelled on the day – no idea if /when they will come.  Alex has been reading the meter so they are not estimated.  
HSBC actions undertaken to be authorised bank signatories.
Hamish to set up a zoom call with Damian and Janet for discussion over the role of treasurer.
Hamish needs to put £20 cash into bank for the proceeds of the skittle evening. 











Hamish

Hamish
Hall ChargesFollowing discussion, the following new rates we agreed, based on 2yrs of CPI and rounded to nearest whole number
2024 new rates effective form 1/9/24




Item
Parishioners
Non Parishioners
Hourly rate
£12
Non Parishioners
£14
9-1pm or 1-5pm
£35
Non Parishioners
£41
6pm – midnight
£48
Non Parishioners
£66
9am – midnight
£108
Non Parishioners
£119
Wedding (set up night before and full day)
£247
Non Parishioners
£377
Long term lets
Price on application



Existing hirer rates comes into place 1/9/24
New hirers effective from 1st July 2024
Booking clerk still has right to use discretion and discuss with committee if need
Booking clerk to let regulars know if price increases and report any issues back to committee





















Carol
Village Hall survey Survey agreed during the meeting sand will be circulated on whataspp group and a link provided to Carol to pass on to regular bookers
Alex/Carol
BookingsSee annexe for list of June bookings. 
Future eventsSkittle –  £20 profit –  thanks to Steve – lets do again!
Fathers Day BBQ Set up from 9:30 SundayMusic planned –  Band members eat free ( Thanks Nick)Cater for 70:Meat –  100 sausages, 50 burgers,  50 chicken pieces – Hamish to shop Sara   – will make a peanut salad (thanks Sara)Sue veg , veggie & sauce + bread. Wil do all non meat shopping£6 per head with concession if you can persuade the doorman
Other events
Cabaret –  still want to go ahead – organise at the next meeting
Tuesday 28th June  – live screening of the football?
Talks to be arranged
Buckerell – may need a venue.  Welcome to use village hall at parishioners rates
Steve


Committee members



Hamish


Sue







Hamish
AOBLadies toilet window – now closed
When is the grass being cut?
Bin store? –  add to the list of wants
Can carol add times to the bookings so Alex can add into the calendar
Press officer vacancy – need to advertise in the paper.		Everyone




Carol
Long term maintenance list, for progression when funds allow. Not in hierarchy order.
(Rising) damp in southern elevation
Extractor fans in kitchen
Drainage pipe replacement
Internal repaint
Loft insulation
Replace all windows, not just front windows
New large range cooker
Bin Store –  
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2024 to 31 March 2025Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2024 to 31 March 2025
INCOMEEXPENDITURE
2023/241.04.23- 31.05.231.04.24 – 31.05.242023/241.04.23-31.05.231.04.24-31.05.24
Balance brought forward3,627.91Insurance690.380.000.00
Non-domestic rates0.000.000.00
Hire of Hall5,588.852,311.501,353.65Cleaning/grass cutting1,019.62175.00310.19
Social Events1,371.3668.00180.26Maintenance/Equipment5,840.55190.28116.35
Interest0.000.000.00Water/Gas/Electric3,031.87482.47421.31
Miscellaneous2,005.91175.992,244.00Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)1,014.591,259.81556.95
1404.80
Balance6001.02
Total7405.827405.82
Redwood Deposit A/c£24,811.22
Subscription to Devon Communities Together of £24

Gittisham Gazette June 2024

by

A monthly community newsletter published by St Michael’s Church and Gittisham Parish Council

What’s On?    at the village hall

Sunday 16th June 12noon   Father’s Day BBQ lunch and table tennis tournament             

Village Hall AGM                   Tuesday 2nd July

Community Kitchen         A free hot meal for all every Thursday at 6.30pm

FitforLife class every Tuesday morning

Yoga with Alison             3rd Tues of the month

Folk Dance Club Wednesday evenings

Tufty Tots Toddlers Thursday 9.30-11.30

Yoga with Angela Fridays 1pm

A Gittisham bible is returned to the Church after a long absence

People in the news

Gittisham resident discusses football with the Prime Minister

200 Club winners May

1st Sharon Wensley £75

2nd Mrs K Jackson £50

3rd Peter King £25

A close-up of flowers Description automatically generated

Outdoor Church 

Sunday 23rd June

  • Forage in the wild area
  • Create a collage
  • Make a bee hotel
  • Plant a wild flower-seed bomb

Gittisham Fete 31st August Alex Rowe

Dog show, Honiton town band, Morris Dancers, Classic vehicles and much more!

 

We can always do with more helpers!  So I am formulating a spreadsheet rota for volunteers during the fete day. I have a few names up to now but if anyone would like to come forward let me know. I am about to start advertising for pitches so if you know of anyone who would like to sell their craft items or anything else the email is 

St Michael’s 200 Club  

200 Club The first draw on the new 200 Club draw took place at ‘Coffee Together’ in May. The next draw will take place Sat June 15th so if you register quickly, you are still in with a chance to win the monthly prize of either £75, £50 or £25 with an extra prize draw of £125 in December.

If you would like to join as a new member or have been intending but have as yet to renew your membership please contact Janet Twist, the 200 Club administrator who will be pleased to assist. Email Tel 01404 45484. At £3 a ticket per month, this is a simple and affordable way of helping to keep our beautiful village Church open. Currently it costs £100 per day to maintain and keep St Michael’s open.

New Curate 

We look forward to welcoming the Rev Scott Angell, who, fresh from being ordained as a Deacon on Saturday 29th June at Exeter Cathedral, will be taking part in his first service in the Honiton Mission Community (HMC), Sunday 30th June 11am at St Pauls, Honiton followed by a shared lunch. Scott has already moved to Gittisham Vale and so you may see him around and about before then, perhaps making good use of the Combe Garden Centre and Farm Shop vouchers, St Michael’s contribution to the HMC house warming gift.

Gittisham Village Hall

On 16th June the annual Father’s Day BBQ will be held at the village hall, with a table tennis tournament this year. The sun will shine, the food will be lovely with veggie options and we hope to have some music too. Starts at 12 and then well into the afternoon. Spread the word – all welcome and bringing a father is not compulsory.

This is a fundraising event to help with vital maintenance work at the village hall. Please support your village hall.

If you would like to book the Village Hall, contact Carol Hall

Booking rates start from £10.90 per hour or and £43.15 for an evening.

The Beehive, Honiton

Exhibition On Screen: MY NATIONAL GALLERY


The National Gallery of London is one of the world’s greatest art galleries. It is full of masterpieces, an endless resource of history, an endless source of stories. But whose stories are told? Which art has the most impact and on whom? The power of great art lies in its ability to communicate with anyone, no matter their art historical knowledge, their background, their beliefs.


This film gives voice to those who work at the gallery – from cleaner to curator, security guard to director – who identify the one artwork that means the most to them and why. An assortment of people from all walks of life who have a strong connection to the gallery make surprising choices of both well-known and lesser-known artworks. Finally, some well-known celebrities explain what they head for when they visit the gallery.


Tickets: General Admission £13.00

On a Lane in Spring John Clare (1793-1864)

 A little lane—the brook runs close beside,
And spangles in the sunshine, while the fish glide swiftly by;
And hedges leafing with the green springtide;
From out their greenery the old birds fly,
And chirp and whistle in the morning sun;
The pilewort glitter ‘neath the pale blue sky,
The little robin has its nest begun
The grass green linnets round the bushes fly.
How mild the spring comes in! The daisy buds
Lift up their golden blossoms to the sky.
How lovely are the pingles in the woods!
Here a beetle runs—and there a fly
Rests on the arum leaf in bottle-green,
And all the spring in this sweet lane is seen.”

How many of us are as observant as Clare? When did we last walk slowly as he did seeing everything in that ‘sweet spring lane’ of his? We miss so much as we rush by these precious places.

PARISH COUNCIL – JUNE 2024 REPORT

Seven councillors met for the June meeting along with Nicole Stacey & Mark Sexton (Baker Estates), Justin Lascelles (Combe Estate) and six members of the public.

Hayne Farm development update. At present the development managed by First Port, but Baker Estates said they could provide advice on how residents could set up a management company made up of a board of directors. This would give residents more control over what maintenance is done there and when. Mark Sexton said he was happy to meet residents for a walk around the estate to look at what needs to be done, and take action on whatever falls

within the remit of Baker Estates. He will suggest some dates for a walkabout which will be circulated in due course.

Hayne Farm play area. Some residents feel that there are many gaps in the provision. Baker Estates said the

playground facilities that have been provided have met the legal obligations with EDDC. If residents would like to see additional equipment in the play area, it will need to be under the management of Hayne Farm residents (directors) before this can happen. Maintenance, insurance and safety inspections of this play equipment will also fall under the authority of the directors. This would be same for bins and dog bins. The parish council will be happy to help advise on funding for new equipment, as was done at the village play area. 

Finance. Councillors agreed the finances, as well as the annual accounts and governance statement for 2023/24.

Crimes. March 2024: No reported crimes.

Planning applications. 

a) 24/0539/LBC – 2 Riverside Cottages, Gittisham EX14 3AG – Replace existing porch with enlarged lead flat roof porch on south elevation; replace existing extension on north elevation to create bedroom and bathroom and glazed

canopy over rear door

b) 24/0988/FUL – Parkers East Gittisham EX14 3AS – Proposal to repair and preserve existing brick and timber greenhouse within the curtilage of a listed building

Councillors had no objections to either application.

Footpath.

Councillors discussed proposals for a traffic-free footpath to connect Hayne Farm with the village and with the garden centre. Justin Lascelles explained that this would have to be a ‘permissive footpath’, not a legal public footpath and the route would need to minimise impact on the environment and on the tenant farmers’ activities. He said there may be some funding the estate can access through stewardship schemes which could provide for capital works and annual maintenance. He invited the parish council to submit a definitive route which he can put before Combe Estate trustees for discussion.

Public transport.

Peter Orchard said he would follow up with Stagecoach regarding the late arrivals or no-shows noted on the clipboard in the village bus shelter.

Next meeting. Thursday 11 th July at 7.30pm in the parish room.

Parish Council links Who’s who https://gittisham.org.uk/parish-council/

Emergency Plan https://gittisham.org.uk/parish-council/emergency-plan/Parish Council Clerk Email: