Alex

Gittisham Village Hall Committee May 2024

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Date 14th May 19.30 at the Village Hall
Present Hamish, Alex, Stephen, Claire, Stella, Terry, Sue (arrived late), Janet (left early)
Apologies Cordelia, Bill, Nick, Maggie, Pierre
Next meet Tuesday 11th JuneAGM: Tuesday 2nd July
ItemDetailsActions
All actionsHamish to circulate new fee structure for approval. 
Janet to add signatories to bank account. 
Alex to check and amend website re deposit taking. 
Hamish to write to Combe Estate requesting a copy of lease
Nick to progress Victoria Windows quotation
Hamish to advertise working party
Alex to lead fix of shed roof
Hamish to use caulking gun around flashing
Hamish to replace bathroom tap
Hamish to advertise Father’s Day BBQ and liaise with Damien
Carol to book Smeatharpe Aerodrome talk
Hamish to approach Steve M re beekeeping talk
Stephen to approach Villages in Action
Everyone to look for a noticeboard for foyer
Alex to progress Gazette MS Forms survey questions
FinancesJanet presented the accounts for the month.
See annexe. 
We returned to the discussion of increasing the hall booking fees, last discussed at the March meeting. T
he committee agreed that a discounted parishioner’s rate should continue to be part of the new fee structure. Hamish is tidying up the analysis of 2023/24 costs and booking utilisation with year-end figures and will circulate a proposed set of fee increases (parishioner/non-parishioner, hour/longer sessions, weddings) via email for consideration and agreement at the next meeting. We are still searching for a new Treasurer to take over from Janet after the AGM. Hamish remains in discussions with a resident. We need to have more signatories to the HSBC bank account as currently it is just Janet. Agreed that Carol and Hamish should both become signatories (the former to enable the taking and returning of booking deposits), plus the new Treasurer when one is found. Is the website clear that a deposit may be taken at the point of a booking? If not we need this to be made clear to support Carol in taking deposits. Alex to check and amend as necessary? Thank you Alex. 

Hamish









Janet



Alex
GrantsLease. A number of the upcoming grant applications need details of our lease arrangements from the estate. Hamish to write to Combe Estate requesting a copy of the lease as we have replaced our original copy. Replacement windows. We have made some progress on quotations (we now have one quotation from Hani and one from Select Windows) but our third quotation from Victoria Windows is still outstanding despite Nick’s best efforts, so we need to pick up this thread again. Thank you Nick. Range cooker. Alex has applied to the South West Water grant scheme (with a video application!), a £2k application for a new range cooker. Many thanks Alex. If this grant is successful then it may be sensible for Phil Twiss’s £1k top up money to also go towards a range cooker (rather than the replacement windows). Decision deferred until we know the success of the application. Community kitchen. Carol is this week submitting the application to the Devon Communities Fund for the next grant for the community kitchen – thank you Carol.Thermal heating and insulation grant. Alex is scoping this out. Hamish


Nick

















Maintenance We agreed a date for a village hall working party for outdoor maintenance – Saturday 1st June, 11am. All committee to attend if possible, and Hamish to advertise to the wider village. Aim is to get the hall spic and span before the Father’s Day BBQ. Shed roof has been temporarily fixed with tarpaulin, thank you Claire. But long-term fix still needs to happen. Alex has sourced some galvanised roof sheets from his dad and will tackle – thank you Alex. We have made no progress on the occasional leak in the back porch so rolling on the action: Hamish to get up in the loft above and use caulking gun around the flashing. If this doesn’t fix it then we can go for a specialist.The bathroom tap needs replacement. Hamish to take forwards, thanks Hamish.

All of the above and more could be part of the working party work. 		Hamish



Alex


Hamish


Hamish
BookingsSee annexe for list of May bookings. 
Future eventsSaturday 18th May, skittles. £2 for adults, £1 for children, BYO. Stephen to advertise, including poster.Sunday 16th June, Father’s Day BBQ. £5 a head. We will use June meeting to discuss in detail. Hamish to liaise with Damian about table tennis tournament (entry fees for the tournament to go to a men’s charity; money for the Father’s Day BBQ to go to the Village Hall). Hamish also to advertise.
July – Smeatharpe Aerodrome DDay Talk. £2 entry. Carol and Hamish to organise a date on either a Tuesday or a Friday. Should be good! Villagers’ talks. All agreed this was a good idea and would get people in. Hopefully Steve M can kick this off with a talk about bees. Hamish to approach him. Then through the late summer / autumn:
Alex – stargazingHamish – flood defencesSue and David – eco-agri farming
Live music. No progress on this since the last meeting. It would be good if some of our approaches came good. 
Villages in action. Stephen to approach about late 2024/2025 bookings.
Long list of other options discussed previously but not priogresses: Ceilidh, art exhibition with scones, hosting the pizza van.


Hamish



Carol

Hamish








Stephen
AOBWe need a noticeboard in the foyer and to make better use of the noticeboard outside to advertise village hall events. 
Questionnaire to the village in the April Gazette did not receive any responses – thank you Alex for trying. We need responses to gather data to support grant applications, but we also want the communication to gather ideas on how the hall can be used and to advertise the community asset. Alex is going to have another go, this time using Microsoft Forms to create a light touch survey that shouldn’t take as long to complete. Please circulate around the committee when ready Alex so that we can comment/add questions.		Everyone

Alex
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- 30.04.231.04.24 – 30.04.242023/241.04.23-30.04.231.04.24-30.04.24
Balance brought forward3,627.91Insurance690.380.000.00
Non-domestic rates0.000.000.00
Hire of Hall5,588.852,025.95332.50Cleaning/grass cutting1,019.62125.00153.90
Social Events1,371.3668.0036.31Maintenance/Equipment5,840.550.0098.53
Interest0.000.000.00Water/Gas/Electric3,031.87345.00278.27
Miscellaneous2,005.9129.512,244.00Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)1,014.595.80527.95
1058.65
Balance5182.07
Total6240.726240.72
Redwood Deposit A/c£24,811.22
Miscellaneous receipt is the grant received from Devon CCMiscellaneous includes payments to Hall booker and to accountants for audit check
for the Community Kitchen

Gittisham Gazette May 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 12th May 10-4 Pierre’s Café             07545 214940

Skittles                   Saturday 18th May

Cake decorating         29th May homeMeadbake

Father’s Day barbecue Sunday 16th June

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 7-week class starts on 7th June

Gittisham Fete poster

Grain to Cream Russell Hayman

I can’t really write a farming article without mentioning the weather (it’s sodding wet and it’s causing problems). Yes it’s boring so you don’t need me adding to it!

So what else is going on? Well we do now have animals out in the fields at last – it is getting to be a case that it had to happen. Silaging will start when the yellow thingy in the sky makes a sustained appearance. When it does it will very much be a case of watch out there’s a farmer about we have months of work to catch up on so it will be all systems go. I predict this will happen in the middle of May as we have a TB test then and there is no way we can do both at the same time could well make my hair thinner than ever (hopefully the silver ones will drop out!).

Edmund made his radio 4 day-view on farming today; it was about his pumpkin patch

Diversification. Fiona recorded it months ago but the Prime minister turned up at the NFU conference and the BBC thought we would be more interested in what he had to say so Edmund was bumped down the schedule. I know I’m bias but Edmund held my interest much more than the PM.

Earlier in April we had the opening of the Gittisham farm water park! (our new slurry lagoon unfortunately it has not been finished yet so no poo has gone in but there was plenty of water, which is good as we now know it works). Activities were limited as there was only one paddle board with much disappointment Edmund stayed on. There was a valid reason for this other than a good laugh that was to give some idea of the depth of water. To finish the work on it we have to empty it, which we have just about done as we created a syphon and it has gradually emptied so the water park opened and closed all too soon! Views not too good and the contents in the future will be even less inviting than cold water, so its financial future did not look too rosie.

Gittisham Fete 31st August Alex Rowe

Update on fete progress-

It’s been a little slow whilst I prepare the blacksmithing section & competitions for the Devon County Show after taking it over last year but after this the fete preparations will be in full swing! 

 We’ve the ever-popular dog show returning bigger and better than last year, the 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 

Church Services and Events

Sunday May 12th 11am Holy Communion

Saturday May 18th   Coffee Together in the Parish Room

May 21st 7pm           APCM Tuesday  May  in the Church

Sunday May 26th           No service

Honiton Beehive

Singalong Encanto   11th May 4pm

Dressing-up as the characters is actively encouraged, with prizes awarded for the most imaginative costumes!  Get ready to sing along with Mirabel and all her friends at this fundraising Cinema Event. 

The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift — every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.

Stockland Primary School PTA organises fun events to raise funds for improved facilities and enrichment of the pupils at the school. Our current projects include developing a Forest School and allotment area, and adding exciting new playground equipment.

Flower and Produce Show

At the Village Hall on Saturday 3rd August 

Potato bucket weigh in at 3:15pm

Show opens at 2:30pm

Teas and raffle

Admission: Adults 50p; Children 5-16 years 10p

Entrance fee Sections A,B,C 20p: Children’s entries free

St Michael’s Church, Gittisham

St Michael’s 200 Club  

The new St Michael’s 200 club is now up and running and at £3 a ticket per month, it is a simple and affordable way of helping to keep our beautiful village Church for all. Currently it costs £100 per day to look after and keep St Michael’s open!

If you would like to join as a new member or have as yet to renew your membership please contact Janet Twist, the 200 Club administrator who will be please to assist. Email Tel 01404 45484

Also, a gentle reminder to those who are intending to renew their membership but haven’t got round to it yet, payment can be made either by regular standing order or cheque either on a monthly or annual basis as best suits your budget.  And/or if you would like to explore alternative ways of giving that can be gift aided e.g. through the Parish Giving Scheme, again Janet will be pleased to assist and answer any questions.

And if you register quickly, you are still in with a chance to win the monthly prize of either £75, £50 or £25 in the May draw with monthly prize draws of £75, £50 and £25 with an extra prize draw of £125 in December. 

APCM

All are welcome to our Annual Parish Council Meeting in the Church on Tuesday May 21st at 7pm.  We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of people who have served faithfully on our Parish Council (PCC) for many years but we would really welcome new members interested in bringing fresh energy and new ideas to the table!

Also Janet Twist our Treasurer will be stepping at the APCM. She has done a magnificent job and leaves us with our financial affairs in very good order. Janet estimates that on average it involves about 2-3 hours a month. If you are interested and/or know of anyone either as a Treasurer or Bookkeeper who would like to know more please contact Julia at gshaminister@gmail.com or Tel 07763 111367.

Thank you

A BIG thank you to everyone who helped with our graveyard spring clean in the Church yard! If you are interested in Gittisham history, do come and have a look, especially in the Old Churchyard where much work has gone into recovering the overgrown graves. 

And thank you also to Alex and Julian for their repair to the Lychgate!

Gittisham Village Hall

The Village Hall is managed by a committee of volunteers who run events and see to the maintenance of the hall.  It has been used for events ranging from quizzes to concerts, discos, the annual flower & produce show and birthday parties.

Every Wednesday night, Gittisham Folk Dance Club meet from 8pm until 10.15pm to dance the evening away (with local bands and experienced callers).

Anyone is welcome to join the committee or the Dance Club.  Do get in touch via 

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

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

Flower and Produce Show

The show is open to all residents of Gittisham parish, which includes Gittisham Vale and Hayne Farm. 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 on 27th July and Juniors must be age 12-16 on 27th July. Children are welcome to enter Sections A,B,C upon paying the entry fee.

A reminder of the children’s classes      

0 – 5 years:  A painting or drawing of a garden, An animal made of vegetables, 3 decorated biscuits  6 – 11 years: A painting or drawing of a garden, An animal made of vegetables, 4 cheese scones

A reminder of the Homecraft classes:

Date and Walnut loaf, Bakewell Tart, 2 Traditional Cornish Pasties, 2 Vegetable pasties, A jar of redcurrant jelly, Jar of chutney – any variety, Knitted or crochet baby blanket, Homemade wedding invitation, Homemade Gadget, Photo of a rainbow taken in Gittisham parish – recognisable location

Full details, schedule and entry forms available from 01404 850922 

PARISH COUNCIL – MAY 2024 REPORT

Six councillors met for the May meeting along with Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), Phil Twiss (DCC) and one member of the public. 

Chair & Vice Chair. Carol Hall was elected as chair and Alex Rowe as vice chair for 2024/25, Janet Twist having stood down as vice chair.

Funding for higher energy and food costs Phil Twiss reported that Devon County Council has been allocated a little over £5 million from the government to help households struggling to pay higher bills for energy, food, water, and other essential items. This will be the fifth round of Household Support Funding received from the Department for Work and Pensions, to run between April and September 2024. It will take Devon’s total level of Household Support Funding received so far to just over £30 million. The funding is to support households in most need, but

specifically those that may not be eligible for other support that is already available from the government. Further details will be provided once plans are finalised.

Finance. Members agreed the finances.

Crimes. March 2024: 1 x public order, Meadow Acre 1 x violence & sexual offences, Cypress Close. Members agreed the increase in crime over the past year reflected the growing number of residents in the parish, and a rise in the reporting of crime.

Planning applications.

a) proposed upgrade to the existing radio base station installation at CS_121551, SWEB Tower EX14 3TZ (NGR: E314620, N096545). Councillors had no objections to this application.

Road closures. 3–20 June 2024 road through Alfington is closed for gas works.

4–5 June 2024 Old A30 by Kings Arms farm. Temporary traffic signals for Highways

                                                   England works.

Old Elm Road rewilding. Alex Rowe said the parish council would be looking for volunteers to help lay the grass matting that will go underneath a footpath suitable for pushchairs in the rewilded area.

Hayne Farm. Carol Hall said some residents of Hayne Farm had drawn up a list of items they would like to see in the play area. Representatives of Baker Estates will be attending the June parish council meeting to discuss.

Broadband. Phil Twiss encouraged people to register their interest on the Airband website, which appeared to show some Gittisham village postcodes likely to be served by the rollout of superfast broadband at some point in the future. Adam Powell queried this, as he had intelligence that suggested Airband is reassessing the contracts it has with Connecting Devon and Somerset (the rural broadband programme). Phil Twiss said he was waiting for a response from CDS. To share your experience of poor broadband in Gittisham village, please contact or telephone 07535 233558.

Public transport. Peter Orchard said there was now a clipboard in the village bus shelter where passengers should report any late arrivals or no-shows, which helps in gathering evidence to present to Stagecoach.

Village play area. Councillors agreed to attend to the items highlighted in the annual safety inspection report. A table tennis tournament is planned in the play area for Father’s Day.

Next meeting. Thursday 6th June 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 Flower & Produce Show Schedule

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To be held at the Parish Hall on Saturday 3rd August 2024

Potato bucket weigh in at 3:15pm
The show will open at 2:30pm
Teas and raffle

Admission: Adults 50p; Children 5-16 years 10p
Entrance fee Sections A,B,C 20p: Children’s entries free
Special potato class £1 – payable when your seed potato is collected
Sections A,B,C no prize money. Section D prizes 1 st = £1, 2nd = 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 on Saturday 27th July 2024
Juniors must be age 12-16 on Saturday 27th July 2024

Children are welcome to enter Sections A,B,C upon paying the entry fee.
 All exhibits must have been made or grown by the exhibitor

 One entry form per person – no sharing!

 Entries must be made in writing on the Entry form enclosed by marking X in

the appropriate box on the form

 Entry forms must be accompanied by the correct entrance fees.
 Entries must reach Sarah and Len Abbott, 4 Church Mead, Gittisham EX14 3AH

by Saturday 27th July 2024
 NO ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE

 Only one exhibit per person per class
 The decision of the judges will be final and binding

 Entries will be received at the Parish Hall between 0900 and 1045 on show day, and must

remain staged until after the presentation of prizes.
 No exhibit should be named (including children’s exhibits)

SECTION “A” VEGETABLES
Class

  1.    3 White potatoes
  2.    3 Coloured potatoes
  3.    1 Cabbage (any variety)
  4.    1 Lettuce (any variety)
  5.    5 Spring Onions
  6.    5 Onion sets
  7.    6 Shallots
  8.    6 Sprays of Parsley
  9.    3 Beetroot
  10.   3 Carrots (any variety)
  11.   6 Pods of Broad beans
  12.   6 Pods of Peas
  13.   A pair of Cucumbers
  14.   5 Tomatoes
  15. 5 Cherry tomatoes
  16.   3 Courgettes under 6”
  17.   6 Runner beans
  18.   2 Parsnips
  19.   3 Sticks of Rhubarb
  20.   4 different culinary herbs (not parsley) in a jam jar
  21. The longest runner bean
    SECTION “B” FLOWERS
    Classes 24-28 to be presented in a clear glass jar (NOT A VASE)
  22.   Cactus (pot not exceeding 8”)
  23.   5 pansy heads floating in clear water in a clear glass bowl
  24.   1 Spike Gladioli
  25.   3 Dahlias
  26.   6 Stems of Sweet peas
  27.   4 stems of different cut flowers
  28.   1 Specimen Rose
    29. An arrangement of garden flowers on the theme of the Paris Olympics not
    exceeding 12” or 30cm in any direction. Own vase, not jam jar.

SECTION “C” HOMECRAFT

30 Date and Walnut loaf – as attached recipe
31 Bakewell Tart – as attached recipe
32 (a) 2 Traditional Cornish Pasties
32(b) 2 Vegetable pasties
33 A jar of redcurrant jelly
34 Jar of chutney – any variety
35 Knitted or crochet baby blanket
36 Homemade wedding invitation
37 Homemade Gadget
38 Photo of a rainbow taken in Gittisham parish – recognisable location
39 MEN ONLY – Marmalade Cake – as attached recipe

SPECIAL CLASS: Potatoes in a bucket – potatoes can be collected from
Sue and David Fallows, Parkers East, Gittisham 01404 850922 on or
after 1 st April 2024

SECTION “D” CHILDREN’S CLASSES
0 – 5 years
40 A painting or drawing of a garden
41 An animal made of vegetables
42 3 decorated biscuits
 6 – 11 years

  1. A painting or drawing of a garden
    44.   An animal made of vegetables
    45.   4 cheese scones

Bakewell Tart Recipe
175g (6oz) Ready-Made Shortcrust pastry
For the Filling
2 x 15ml (2 tbsp) Jam or Lemon Curd 1 Large Egg
75 gm (3 oz) Margarine 50g (2 oz) Ground Rice
75 gm (3 oz) Caster Sugar Few Drops Almond Essence
100 gm (4 oz) Ground Almonds Blanched Almonds

  1. Heat oven to 190 o C, 375 o F, Gas Mark 5
  2. Line an 18cm (7 in) flan tin with 2/3 of the pastry. Spread the base with jam or lemon
    curd
  3. Cream margarine and sugar. Mix together the ground almonds and ground rice; add to
    the creamed mixture alternately with the beaten egg.
  4. Spread the mixture over the jam then decorate with a lattice of the remaining pastry and
    the blanched almonds. Bake for about 35-40 minutes
    Date and Walnut Loaf Recipe
    225g (8 oz) self raising flour. 2 Eggs
    1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
    200g (7 oz) soft pitted dates chopped 100g (3½ oz) chopped walnuts
    125g (4½ oz) unsalted butter softened, + extra for the tin
    150g (5 oz) light muscovado sugar 1 tbsp icing sugar
    Pinch of sea salt
    1 Preheat oven to 180 o C/160 o C Fan/ Gas 4;
    2 Butter a 2lb loaf tin (22cm x 10cm 6cm deep) and line with baking parchment;
    3 Put the butter, dates and bicarb in a large bowl and add 150ml boiling water, give it a
    stir so that the butter melts and leave to stand for around 20 minutes until the dates
    have softened;
    4 Whisk in the sugar until smooth, then gradually whisk in the eggs until combined.
    Beat in the baking powder, flour and a pinch of sea salt until there are no lumps of
    flour left and it’s smooth.
    5 Fold in ¾ of the walnuts then pour into the prepared tin. Sprinkle the remaining
    walnuts over the top.
    6 Bake for 20 minutes, then turn the oven down to 170 o C/150 o C Fan/ Gas 3 and cook
    for another 45-50 minutes until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre
    comes out clean.
    7 Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, then lightly dust with the icing sugar.

Marmalade Cake Recipe
140g marmalade
175g butter, softened
175g light muscovado sugar
3 eggs, beaten
225g self-raising flour
½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp mixed spice
100g packet pecan halves
Heat oven to 180C/160 fan/gas 4.
Grease and line a 1kg/2lb loaf tin
Set aside 1tbs marmalade in a small pan.
In a bowl blend the remaining marmalade, butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder
and spices until smooth and light.
Stir in about ¾ of the pecans
Tip into the prepared tin and sprinkle the remaining pecans on the top.
Bake for about 1-1.5 hours , covering loosely with foil after about 40 minutes, until a
skewer inserted comes out clean.
Cool slightly on a wire rack.
Gently heat the remaining marmalade and spread the glaze over the top of the warm
loaf.

Gittisham Flower & Produce Show  Saturday 3rdAugust 2024
ENTRY FORM
Please place an X in the square showing the number of the class(es) you intend to
enter.
When completed please return this Entry Form, with the correct Entry Fees, as
shown on the schedule to:  Sarah and Len Abbott, 4 Church Mead, Gittisham EX14
3AH  on or before Saturday 27 th July 2024
No entries will be accepted after this date
Each entrant must complete a separate entry form. No sharing!
Please do not name any exhibit – even the children’s

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40
41 42 43 44 45

Entrant’s name………………………………………………………………………
Address………………………………………………………………………………….
Total entry fee enclosed………………………….
Or, if child, state child’s age………………………
Additional entry forms available, if required, from Sue Fallows, Parkers East,
Gittisham, EX14 3AS     01404 850922 or

GITTISHAM-FLOWER-2024-V2Download

Gittisham Village Hall Acounts April 2023-24

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GITTISHAM VILLAGE HALL
Accounts for the year 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024
20242023
££
Income
Hall & Equipment Hire4596.404953.50
Proceeds from Social Events1371.361791.04
Miscellaneous Income2005.91175.98
Donations00.00
Grants992.450.00
Redwood Bank Interest507.98226.48
9474.107147.00
Expenditure
Insurance690.38643.79
Council Tax00.00
Water,Gas & Electricity3031.872173.82
Cleaning and Grass Cutting1019.62748.57
Hall & Equipment Maintenance5840.553624.97
Stationery & Postage00.00
Miscellaneous Expenses194.3193.18
Booking Clerk/Treasurer749.000.00
Bank Charges71.2976.32
11597.017460.65
Surplus income/loss for the year(2122.91)(313.65)
Bank BalancesAs at 31.03.2024As at 31.03.2023
££
HSBC Bank3627.916258.8
Redwood Bank26811.2226303.24
Cash in hand81.3281.32
30520.4532643.36
Less loss for year ending 31 March 2024-2122.91
30520.45
I certify that I have audited the books and records of Gittisham Village Hall for the year ending 31st March 2024 and can confirm that the above accounts are in accordance with the books, records and information supplied. To the best of our knowledge and belief, the above accounts give a true and fair view of the financial position of the Parish Hall as at 31st March 2024.
Geraldine Coates – AuditorDate

Village Hall Committe April 2024

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Date9th April 19.30 at the Village Hall
PresentHamish, Sue, Alex, Janet, Stephen, Maggie, Pierre
+ Claire, observing
ApologiesCordelia, Stella, Bill, Terry, Nick
Next meetTuesday 14th May
AGM date: Tuesday 2nd July
ItemDetailsActions
Actions 
outstanding / rolled over
from 
previous 
meeting
Ongoing action to explore grant options, sitting with various committee members.Various
Treasurer’s 
report
Janet presented end of year accounts. See screengrab in annexe. The value of the current account loss for the year is very significant, £2,123. However, if our grants received for the community kitchen are allocated to the period to which they actually apply (so one grant within 2023/24 is accounted for in 2022/23, and one grant to be received in 2024/25 is accounted for in 2023/24), then our losses for the year are more like £800.
Accounts will go the accountant for auditing at the end of the week, with the usual gift of wine – thank you Janet for organising. The committee agreed the annual payments to treasurer and booking clerk. Janet needs to print off the remittances for Hamish/Nick to sign.  
We agreed to defer the discussion on charging rates for the hall until the May meeting so that Hamish could prepare another cost proposal based around the final end of year figures, and so that we could have as full an attendance as possible to discuss this important issue. For ease of reference, the action rolled over from the previous meeting is:
Hamish agreed to rework his analysis and present a further proposal at the April meeting. Thank you Hamish. New proposal to include for consideration: 
a cost base with the 2023/24 significant capital expenditure costs (the boiler replacement) removed, so that subsequent price increases do not need to be so steep;
separate rates for parishioners and non-parishioners;
a cheaper rate for longer bookings;
and a hike in wedding costs(?).  
Grants: Carol Hall is applying for a grant for the community kitchen, and also preparing a bid for grant for replacement windows – see maintenance below. Thank you Carol!
No applicants have responded to the advertisements in the Gazette for a new Treasurer. It was suggested that Damien Furniss might be interested – Hamish to ask Damien. 
Interest in the savings account is 3.9% and raising a not insignificant amount (£508), but could we do better if we move elsewhere? One to debate once new Treasurer in post.
Janet














Hamish





MaintenanceThe old shed has gone, the football team picture has been fixed. The tap washer issue has been resolved but alas the whole tap now needs replacement. Hamish to take forwards, thanks Hamish. 
Shed roof remains a significant issue. Claire kindly offered her tarpaulin as a temporary fix. Alex and Hamish will affix, weighted with sandbags, as a stopgap. Longer-term the committee agreed that galvanised sheeting is probably the way forwards. Alex to speak with Julian to get a quote for some sheeting. Also let’s not forget the stirling board that the church offered us. To discuss again next month.
The leak in the back porch was discussed. It’s only an issue in high winds but it still needs sorting. We agreed that the initial action should be to get up in the loft above and use caulking gun around the flashing. Hamish volunteered to tackle this at the same time as doing the shed roof. If this doesn’t fix it then we can go for a specialist.
We discussed replacing the windows at the front of the hall, which are badly damaged. On balance the committee agreed to pursue cheaper, better-insulating PVC windows, sympathetically designed, rather than wood frames which will quickly need more work and upkeep. We are applying for a grant and need at least three quotations – we have one already from Hani. Alex will approach Select Windows, Maggie will approach Anglian. Hamish will pursue with the estate how they feel about PVC windows. To discuss at next meeting. 
We discussed maintenance days, or maintenance evenings: Committee and other volunteers coming together for a few hours to progress a series of maintenance actions. Strong support for this and also for advertising for help in the Gazette. We did not agree a date but should do this at the May meeting if not before. 
Hamish



Hamish, Alex, Alex





Hamish





Alex, Maggie, Hamish

Long-term maintenance list, for progression when we land a grant. No hierarchy as yet

(Rising?) damp in southern elevationTBD
Extractor fans in kitchenTBD
Drainage pipes
Internal repaint
New large range cooker and oven
PetitionSadly our questionnaire to the village in the last Gazette did not receive any responses – thank you Alex for trying. We need responses to gather data to support grant applications, but we also want the communication to gather ideas on how the hall can be used and to advertise the community asset. Alex is going to have another go, this time using Microsoft Forms to create a light touch survey that shouldn’t take as long to complete. Please circulate around the committee when ready Alex so that we can comment/add questions.Alex
Future events


We are all looking forward to the St George’s Day quiz, Saturday 20th April, Nick as quizmaster. Thank you Nick. And a ploughman’s supper – thank you Sue. Cheese, no soup. £7 on the door. Nick to advertise. Please be there by 5 to help set up. 
We agreed to organise an evening of village Skittles on Saturday 18th May, from 19:30. Steve to organise and advertise. 
We agreed to run the Father’s Day BBQ on Sunday 16th June, and to coincide this with the opening of the new village table tennis table. The Parish Council will be asking Damien to organise a table tennis tournament that week, with the finals on the Sunday. Entry fees for the tournament to go to a men’s charity; money for the Father’s Day BBQ to go to the Village Hall.
We agreed to pursue live music options as priority. Carol will approach Hani to see if he can run a Syrian music and food event on Saturday 20th July. But we need many live music options to pursue as we think this will be great and draw in the punters. Maggie to approach Richard Thorn, Hamish to approach skiffle band that he knows, Claire to get a quote for Joey the Lips. 
We agreed that more evening talks would be brilliant. Alex to consider / organise an astronomy talk from him / Norman Lockyer colleague, to consider at next meeting. 

Long list of other options:
Ceilidh
Art exhibition with scones…
Hosting the pizza van…
Sea defences talk
Magical mystery bus tour
Villages in action		Carol, Hamish, Maggie, Claire

Alex
AOBOn behalf of the committee earlier this month Alex attended the East Devon Village Hall Nest meeting. Thank you Alex for dedicating your time to this. A very useful talk with plenty for us to consider. Listing readout here in full as we did not have much time to discuss and we might want to pick up elements in subsequent meeting:
A number of other village halls are adding a supplementary ‘kitchen-use’ fee to their booking prices.
‘Hallmaster’ is an app that could support booking clerk – worth reviewing.
South West Water has a regional grant fund called ‘neighbourhood fund’ capped at £2k.
One village hall raised £100k simply through…crowdfunding! 
Alex will attend the next meeting of the committee on Wednesday 12th June – thank you again Alex!

Having observed us in action Claire asked to join the committee – motion approved! Welcome Claire!
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2023 to 31 March 2024
INCOME
2022/231.04.22- 31.03.231.04.23 – 31.03.2024
Balance brought forward6,258.80
Hire of Hall4,953.504,953.505,588.85
Social Events1,791.041,791.041,371.36
Interest226.48226.480.00
Miscellaneous175.98175.982,005.91
Total15224.92
Miscellaneous includes the £2000 drawn dow from Redwood Bank
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2023 to 31 March 2024
EXPENDITURE
2022/231.04.22-31.03.231.04.23-31.03.24
Insurance643.79643.79690.38
Non-domestic rates0.000.000.00
Cleaning/grass cutting748.57748.571,019.62
Maintenance/Equipment3,624.973,624.975,840.55
Water/Gas/Electric2,173.822,173.823,031.87
Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)269.50269.501,014.59
11597.01
Balance3627.91
Total15224.92
Redwood Deposit A/c£24,811.22
Miscellaneous includes payments to Treasurer and Hall booker.
Cleaning/grass cutting has risen by 36%, from last year.
The utilities have risen by just under 40%.

Gittisham Gazette March 2024

by

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

What’s On?  


Tufty Tots Every Thursday at the village hall  

Pierre’s Cafe Sunday 10th March              at the village hall

Mothering Sunday Sunday 10th March 11am the church Family Eucharist with distribution of posies

Palm Sunday March 24th 11am Morning Worship with procession of palms starting at the Lychgate  

Good Friday March 29th 10.30am ‘Stations of the Cross’ starting at the Lychgate followed by Hot Cross Buns in the Parish Room.  

Easter Day 11am Eucharist followed by Easter Egg Hunt in the old Churchyard  

Live music at The Beehive Baskery – the queens of banjo punk. Sat 16th March  


Quiz Night At the village hall               on 20th April with Nick  

Gittisham Fete Saturday 31st August





























Auction of Promises! Helen Hayman   What a fun, entertaining evening with an amazing gathering of people of all ages participating under the expert eye of Graham Barton who was brilliant in persuading us all to part with our money!
With so many great lots from a celebration cake, baby sitting , villa in Crete, holiday getaways to flying high beside The Spitfire ! All going towards our community church which the total looks to be around £3,000.00 !  A huge thankyou must go to so many of you for donating lots, funds and helping to run this event. Also to those who attended, making it a memorable evening!

Your Village Hall Your village hall needs you. As you might be aware the village hall committee is trying to source funding in order to maintain and breathe new life into our community space! To do this we need feedback from the users to explain why the village hall is important to them and what they would like to see updated/improved. Without this, we cannot move forward with any grant request.
So we would be really grateful to hear from you.
Why is the village hall important to you?
What change would improve your experience with the hall?
How much of an impact does the village hall have on the surrounding community?
How can the village hall extend its appeal more widely?
         





Both Edward and Doreen were faithful members of our telephone service during Covid and we were very pleased at our recent Eucharist Service to welcome Edward, his niece Linda, and Doreen’s daughter Sarah for the blessing by Reverend Robert of a kneeler stitched in memory of Doreen.



                                                     
Tufty Tots at the village hall   6 months – 5 years old  The Tufty Explorer and Learner sessions are planned using the Early Years Framework. Each activity has been tailored to help our little ones reach their developmental milestones in an engaging safe environment. Each session will include singing, dancing and storytelling. Immersing our little ones in new vocabulary, developing their understanding of language and text patterns. To ignite a love of learning we will explore a new story each week… meeting new characters,  discovering different settings and embarking on a range of adventures. Nurture Time For You… On arrival you can pre-order your hot drink and treat… it will be waiting for you after the singing and storytelling input. Enjoy some ‘you’ time.    


Open Day at The Beehive   On Saturday 6th April, The Beehive, Honiton’s community entertainment centre, shall be opening the doors and inviting the public to our open day from 10am until 2pm. The day will give members of the community and visitors from far and wide a chance to discover our diverse range of events, activities, cinema screenings, theatre productions, our café and so much more! During the day, visitors can enjoy live music in the café and free samples of delicious homemade cakes & bakes, discover what events we have coming up in the year, learn more about becoming a volunteer and find out about our venue & room hire.
In the auditorium there’ll be stands providing information about a range of our community groups that use The Beehive. These include Honiton’s Community Theatre Company, TASH: Advancing Inclusion, U3A and Slimming World. There will even be a special theatre performance by Theatre Kidz!		           
A message from Owen and Sophie
At this moment Sophie and I would like to reach out to you all in ‘the village’ and thank you dearly for your kind words and support during this time. The sudden nature of Jayne’s passing has been felt by many and by far, and we are strengthened by the outpouring of love given by those who were fortunate to have known her.


    St George’s Quiz Night In the village hall on Saturday April 20th starting at 7.30pm.

Ploughman’s supper included, BYOB, £7 a head. Please call or message Nick on 07973 797447 to reserve a table.  

Table Talk at the Otter Inn Lent is often mistakenly thought of as a dreary time, a time of self-denial and abstinence that for many does not feel at all life-giving, especially on days when it never seems to stop raining and when much in the news is so awful. So it can be tempting to forget about Lent altogether! But as we have been exploring in Table Talk session at the Otter Inn, hope can shine into the darkest of places. All welcome to come and join us at the Otter Inn Wednesday evenings in Lent at 7pm. Just turn up or for further information email Julia    		 
  

PARISH COUNCIL – MARCH 2024 REPORT

Seven councillors met for the March meeting. Phil Twiss (DCC), Alasdair Bruce (EDDC) and one member of the public were also present.

Highways Phil Twiss said that thanks to a combination hard work by DCC Highways’ teams and the milder winter, the service has recorded 5,500 safety defect potholes in January, slightly below the 7-year average (5,926). This compares well to the 7,500 in 2023. The significant reduction in the gritting operations frees up resources to continue the planned patching operations, again helping to reduce safety defect potholes across the county. However the prolonged wet weather of the last few months does not help matters when trying to make repairs to the highway. Phil Twiss added that the ‘report a problem’ website now looks somewhat different https://www.devon.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/report-a-problem/ To this Alasdair Bruce added that people should firstly report every relevant hole they find in the road and, secondly, regularly check that it hasn’t been removed from the online map before a successful repair, as this can affect insurance claims. If it has been removed, put it back on and keep doing so until the hole is fixed.

Finance. Members agreed the finances.

Crimes. Due to an ongoing error on the Police UK website which the force is aware of, it is not possible to report crime statistics.

Planning applications.

a) Land at Weston Park Devonshire Road – Construction of new industrial units (Use Class B2) – the clerk agreed to check whether this was another iteration of an application that had come before the parish council last year, to which there was no objection.

Road closures. 20 March: road to Catshayes closed to install sewer level equipment.

Broadband. Adam Powell reported that Richard Foord MP had accepted his invitation to a meeting on 4 th April to discuss the delay in rolling out superfast broadband. He has also invited representatives of other parishes similarly affected, and rural broadband campaigners. To share your experience of poor broadband in Gittisham village, please contact or telephone 07535 233558.

Footpaths Hayne Farm to Gittisham village. Adam Powell and Alex Rowe said they had met representatives of the Combe Estate and the Marker family to discuss a range of traffic-free routes between the new development and the village. The most likely option was a permissive path past the farm

shop and barns to the village along a serviceable farm track that ends by the old marlpit, as it might be more acceptable than a right of way. Conditions of use could be determined by the estate and could potentially be limited to certain times of year. The second route discussed was under the overgrown railway bridge at the Hayne Farm development to follow the hedgerows down to the minor road leading to the garden centre and village. If approved, in both cases the routes and conditions of use may change, as the built landscape is likely to change in the future.

Village play area. The clerk reported that the legal side of releasing the S106 funding for the outdoor ping pong table had been completed, and the parish council could now proceed to purchase the item. This was one of the most popular choices in the public consultation carried out before the pandemic.

Next meeting. Thursday 4 th April 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

How’s your broadband?

Of course, we know the answer and yes, the Parish Council is ‘on the case’. Those of us with a connection to the village wifi Voneus do have a fairly good service but it depends on the weather, foliage, pigeons in the way, etc. You do need to have a direct line of sight to the transmitters. Others are left with coping with little more than dial up, How is this affecting you? Your work, your education, your leisure, managing health, finances, etc. Do you feel disadvantaged?  It’s not a money thing, it’s just not reached us here in the village. The Parish Council is meeting our MP next month and it will greatly strengthen our case if we can give him some anecdotes from people of all ages, backgrounds and careers. Please send your thoughts to or speak to one of your Parish Councillors. Thank you

The Equinox and Big Tides Hamish Hall

On the 20th March the sun will pass across the earth’s equator, moving from the southern hemisphere to the northern.  This means the whole planet gets the same amount of sunlight and we have pretty much equal amounts of sunlight and nighttime (equi -nox).  The sun will all rise due east and set due west wherever you are.

This is also a time when we often get high tides and this year is pretty special.  On the 11th & 12th March, just after the new moon, we will have one of the highest and lowest set of predicted tides for the last eight years.  This happens because the tidal forces are strengthened when the moon is closest to the earth in its elliptical orbit and enhanced when the sun is over the equator.  The moon is almost at its closest to earth and on these dates (only 356,800km away, compared to 406,500km away  in October).    You may note that I;ve said predicted tides as the atmospheric pressure and strength of the wind can make big changes to both the height and the time of the tides

Wash out winter ! Jack Bartlett

Rain rain go away, come back another day! It’s been a while since I’ve written, but the weather hasn’t changed much! It really does need to dry up now, fields are saturated and just can’t take any more. The field work needs to begin but we can’t even get into the fields without making a mess. Slurry needs to be applied for nutrients to this coming years crops, and bagged fertiliser for the same reason. We also need to roll the grass fields, this smooths out any lumps, bumps and molehills so that when we cut the grass the mowers don’t hit these lumps and bumps. Soil contamination in the silage doesn’t make for a good feed.

The wet weather doesn’t mean we haven’t had much to, winter time means all the animals are tucked away in the sheds keeping dry, which means lots of feeding, scraping slurry and bedding up! We are also calving a lot of cows and heifers at the moment too, in just one day this week 7 calves were born! They like to keep us on our toes.

You may have seen lots of sheep around, these have done a good job eating down the excess grass through the winter, which in turn helps for making good quality silage in the summer. As the grass is nice and young & fresh.

Some fields will also be turned over and planted to maize, lots to happen in the next couple months!

Some of you will have noticed the track we have built to Catshayes, although still not completely finished yet, this has made a huge difference to get to and back from Catshayes without going all around the village. This will also help with some of the summer tractor traffic.

Bring on summer !

Village Hall Committee March 2024

by
Date5 th March 19.30 at the Village Hall
PresentHamish, Nick, Sue, Alex, Janet, Bill, Stephen, Maggie, Terry, Pierre
ApologiesCordelia, Stella
Next meetTuesday 9 th April
ItemDetails
Actions
outstanding /
rolled over
from
previous
meeting		Hamish to pass box of files to new Treasurer.
Hamish to advertise for a new Treasurer – note to go into April Gazette,
including details on stipend.
The action remains for us to explore grant options. Hamish to apply for
community grant, Alex to try again with lottery fund, but other options
available as well. See also summary of grant application discussion in
‘Treasurer’s Report’ section of minutes.
Treasurer’s
report		Janet presented accounts. See screengrab in annexe. Hamish needs to submit
Burns Night expenditure before accounts closed for year; Helen Hayman needs
to be refunded for the auction of promises costs.
£1700 has been drawn down from Redwood Bank to pay for the boiler but it
will not clear before the Ides of March, so the accounts are currently light.
Hamish presented an analysis of hall utilisation, costs and income for the year.
The committee expressed its thanks to Carol Hall who has done so much to
drive bookings through the year – we have done well, particularly on private
functions.
In spite (/because of) the high utilisation rate our costs are exceeding our
income. This is significantly the case if the costs for the new boiler are included
in year’s outgoings, but also true if this large capital expenditures is taken out.
The committee agreed that ultimately our hiring costs are too low and that we
need to increase them to cover our outgoings.
Hamish’s presented an analysis which suggests that eradicating our current
variable charging rates and charging a flat £17 an hour would meet our full fat
costs for the year. Counter-arguments to this proposal: 1) some of the
committee wished to see the cheaper rate retained for parishioners; 2) this flat
hourly rate would be felt more significantly by those renting the hall for full
days or for significant numbers of hours – a cheaper rate for bookings of long
duration could perhaps be retained.
Hamish agreed to rework his analysis and present a further proposal at the April meeting. Thank you Hamish. New proposal to include for consideration:
a cost base with the 2023/24 significant capital expenditure costs (the
boiler replacement) removed, so that subsequent price increases do not
need to be so steep;
separate rates for parishioners and non parishioners;
a cheaper rate for longer bookings;
and a hike in wedding costs(?).
The committee discussed grants. Nick made the point that we need to settle
on an agreed hierarchy of improvement works and engage with grant
applications – we may need a sub-committee or a named lead to drive this
forwards. For further discussion at next meeting.
To support grant work Alex agreed to attend the open days at Membury and
Chardstock Village Halls on behalf of the committee and explore some of their
funding solutions – thank you Alex.
We also agreed to put a questionnaire in the gazette about hall use. This would
provide insight into how the parish want the hall to be used and also provide
valuable evidence when submitting grant applications. The article /
questionnaire should also reference National Village Hall week, coming up this
month.
MaintenanceShed roof is badly damaged. Ply has come off and it needs a temporary
tarpaulin, then refelting. Alex has approached Len about the tarpauline – please
update when you know more. The longer-term fix will need to be deferred for a
month or so but when it happens Nick is bringing buns. The church has stirling
(?)board going free that can be used. To return to this at April meeting.
The meeting agreed that Hani could remove the dilapidated shed, provided it
was disposed of in a reasonable manner. £250. At the same time Hani can
repaint around the new boiler flue. Stephen to approach.
Big thanks to Alex for unblocking the toilet. Are toilets blocking more due to
underlying problem with drains? Inconclusive discussion.
Tap needs a new washer. Hamish will do it, thank you Hamish. Hamish may wish
to borrow David’s regrinder tool.
The picture of the Gittisham football team has cracked glass frame – Stephen to
get sorted at Honiton Glass.
Future
events		We agreed a St George’s Day quiz, Saturday 20 th April, Nick as quizmaster. Thank
you Nick. And a ploughman’s supper – thank you Sue (I think you are leading but
apologies if not in fact agreed?). £7 on the door and, as with Burns Night, you have
to book ahead. Advertise in the Gazette along with Nick’s number. Nick to
advertise.
March skittles event was deferred. We will
reschedule at next meeting.
We agreed to rerun the Father’s Day BBQ – no date agreed but presumably Sunday
16 th June.

Other ideas discussed but not yet agreed:
Live music…
Midsummer ceilidh
Art exhibition with scones…
Hosting the pizza van…
ABCDEFGHI
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2023 to 31 March 2024Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2023 to 31 March 2024
INCOMEEXPENDITURE
2022/231.04.22- 29.02.231.04.23 – 29.02.242022/231.04.22-29.02.23.231.04.23-29.02.24
Balance brought forward6,258.80Insurance643.79643.79690.38
Non-domestic rates0.000.000.00
Hire of Hall4,953.504,716.565,476.75Cleaning/grass cutting748.57748.57803.62
Social Events1,791.041,767.441,371.36Maintenance/Equipment3,624.973,543.033,857.93
Interest226.480.000.00Water/Gas/Electric2,173.822,064.372,698.17
Miscellaneous175.98175.985.91Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)269.50261.37991.84
9041.94
Balance4070.88
Total13112.8213112.82
Redwood Deposit A/c£26,811.22
Total income from Burns night Cash £343.08+ Sum Up £182.86





Village Hall Committee February 2024

by
Date6th February 19.30 at the Village Hall
PresentNick, Alex, Stephen, Stella, Pierre, Bill, Sue
ApologiesJanet, Hamish, Maggie, Cordelia, Terry
Next meetTuesday 5th March?
  
ItemDetails
Actions outstanding from previous meetingAgreement with Len about dismantling shed – see ‘Maintenance’ section below. Hamish to sort through box of files and share relevant with Janet. Advertise for a new Treasurer – note to go into March Gazette, including details on stipend.
Treasurer’s reportAccounts reviewed see bellow. Thanks to Janet for including savings account details in the summary. Concern at the rate at which outgoings are outstripping income. This will still be true (though less stark) once community kitchen grant monies of £2,244 are paid into the account at end of March. Agreement to discuss at subsequent meeting with follow-up actions on the following points. Noted that our charging costs are lower than other local village halls – also to discuss fees in March.
● Hamish to being analysis of costs and income (action from January minutes).
● Janet to clarify what is driving the sharp increase in miscellaneous charges – new hob?
● Alex to run a uSwitch comparison of electricity and gas suppliers to inform decision on new contract due end March.
Grant applications discussed. Devon Communities Together training session on grant writing, Tuesday 20th February, 10am-1pm, thank you Alex for circulating.
Hamish to apply again to ‘Growing Communities Fund’ for a further grant for community kitchen, as per request from Parish Council. Fund opens for applications on 1st April.
Alex will try again for £20k Lottery Fund grant. Priority items for investment to be discussed at March meeting.
Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2023 to 31 March 2024Gittisham Parish Hall Accounts – 1st April 2023 to 31 March 2024
INCOMEEXPENDITURE
2022/231.04.22- 31.01.231.04.23 – 31.01.242022/231.04.22-31.01.231.04.23-31.01.24
Balance brought forward6,258.80Insurance643.79643.79690.38
Non-domestic rates0.000.000.00
Hire of Hall4,953.504,490.755,090.30Cleaning/grass cutting748.57718.57803.62
Social Events1,791.041,219.54956.75Maintenance/Equipment3,624.973,198.043,840.11
Interest226.480.000.00Water/Gas/Electric2,173.821,879.002,309.12
Miscellaneous175.9825.985.91Miscellaneous(inc. bank charges)269.50256.37986.84
8630.07
Balance3681.69
Total12311.7612311.76
Redwood Deposit A/c£26,811.22
MaintenanceChildproof fence for hirers, Len taking forwards. Ideally needs to be in place by end of February. What type of fence – committee not clear without Hamish present? Hamish to ensure taken forwards. Shed removal. Yes wait for warmer months but steer from committee was to pay a firm for removal and get it all done in one go. Stephen to get quote from Hani for full removal. Second shed has leaking roof. No action. Boiler installation taking place this Thursday morning, 8am. Well done everyone and especially Nick and Alex for getting us to a solution. Committee agreed that funds for the boiler should be taken from the savings account, not the current account, and authorised Treasurer to make that transfer. There was some debate about what our long-term investment / refurbishment priorities are. For instance, how much of a priority is the sewage pipe works? Can we agree a prioritisation list at the AGM, which we can use as a touchstone throughout the year?
BookingsWell done to everyone and especially Sue and Alex for organising a fantastic Burns Night. Warm feedback from Honiton Carers and other guests all obviously had a brilliant evening.
Future eventsAuction of promises 10th February. Proceeds will raise money for the church. The committee agreed to reduce the booking fee to nothing. Nick to message Helen, copying Carol so she can invoice accordingly.

Friday 1st, skittles and darts. Stephen to add a note to the Gazette and advertise on WattsApp. Alex offered to help set up. Mav is down to collect the Skittles again. Committee agreed to not charge for entry, but possibly a raffle. If successful, run again another evening in March? Agree in March.

Fete, 31st August. Can the village hall committee run the bar? – yes we can.

Cabaret in December.

Other ideas: The Committee was keen for a quiz in April and possibly a regular monthly quiz booking. A regular slot gets on calendar and brings people from wider? Share load of quiz-setting around the village? Return to this in March. Father’s Day BBQ?
Bingo
Cream tea with art exhibition.
AOBStephen volunteered to take on some secretariat duties, including publishing historic minutes on GVH website.

Gittisham Gazette February 2024

by
A monthly community newsletter published by St Michael’s Church and Gittisham Parish Council
    What’s On?   
               
Village hall  

Auction of promises Saturday 10th February  

Pierre’s Kitchen
Sunday, Feb 11th  

Tip Tip Toe
Tuesday, Feb 13th 4.30 pm Open to all children from the parish. Bring a plate of party food.  

Skittles and family fun
Friday 1st March  


Church Services

Sunday, Feb 11th 11 am Holy Communion, St Paul’s Honiton with Bishop Jackie  

Ash Wednesday, Feb 14th Holy Communion Imposition of Ashes St Paul’s Honiton 11 am & 7 pm
St Michael’s Imposition of Ashes 7pm  

Sunday, Feb 25th 11 am Holy Communion  



  Job Vacancy

Village Hall Treasurer Details from Hamish Hall
07880 178297    
Haggis and dancing at the village hall (Midweek Herald)  Hamish Stabbing Haggis
A wonderful write-up in the Midweek Herald about our legendary Burn’s Night celebration at the village hall “Haggis, mashed potatoes swedes were served followed by a trio of tray bakes with ice cream. To say the food was delicious is an understatement as it truly was outstanding and there were even seconds for everyone who could manage it after the generous first helpings.” A well-stocked raffle followed, with lovely prizes. Winnie from the Honiton Carers said “Folk dancing followed with caller Mary who as usually kept us going nonstop. This is definitely a highlight of the evening as so much fun is had by all the participants who try to carry out Mary’s instructions with much enthusiasm.
Village hall committee serve burns night food
“Thank you to organiser Hamish and the committee for allowing us to join them all again this year. We will definitely be back next year, as this is an evening not to be missed for sure.” Get in touch with Win on  or phone 07974 636926, to find out more about the Honiton Carers.   Honiton Youth Club are looking for a fun and dynamic person to join our youth club sessions as a paid, part-time support worker. You’ll be supporting the Lead Youth Worker on Tuesday and Thursday evenings to support and engage the young people and children of Honiton. Experience with young people is highly desired, qualifications are not essential.

Table Talk

A Game of Conversations

Do you like to ponder on the big questions of life and wonder what others think? There will be an opportunity to think about a topic a week over five weeks to do just that!

Bring a friend, grab a drink, join a table and pick a question you fancy.

At the Otter Inn, Weston every Wednesday 7pm starting 21st Feb and continuing throughout Lent. Convened by Julia Barrett

Changes to the 200 Club

The 200 club was first started in1984 as a way of raising much need funds for the upkeep and maintenance of the Church and it remains a popular way of enabling everyone within and beyond the Parish to maintain a connection with our beautiful village church. However, the value of £1 since 1984 has depreciated considerably – the equivalent value today of £1 is 25p! During which time, the 200 subscription cost of £12 per annum (£1 per monthly draw) has not changed while the running costs have risen considerably. St Michael’s PCC has therefore carried out a much-needed review in order to ensure that the 200 club remains viable while at the same time fulfilling its original purpose and has decided to raise the subscription fee while at the same time also raising the prize money to ensure the 200 club remains attractive to its members. We really don’t want to lose you! A tall order, one might think! But having discussed this at length and consulted with our ‘Coffee Together’ members who are also enthusiastic 200 Club members, we believe we have come up with a solution that will enable the 200 Club to thrive for many more years! The timetable for implementation of changes is as follows:

February – all present 200 Club members will receive letters informing them of the changes, new subscription rates and increased prize money.

March – the last draw under the present system will take place March 16th at Coffee Together at the Coffee Together Club in the Parish Room.

April – no draw to allow time for the set-up of the administration of the new 200 Club

May – May 18th Launch of new 200 Club with first draw at ‘Coffee Together, Parish Room.

If you are not already a member of the 200 Club and would like to join please contact Janet Twist at for further information.

February 200 Club

Prize Winners

1. Jackson King

2. Jonathan Aylen

3. John Boswell

4. Emma Fuller

5. Phyllis Broadhurst

The Beehive, Honiton

March is packed full with live music at The Beehive Honiton.

We have the sensational Elton John Show on Saturday 2nd March. If French music is your thing, why not come along to our evening show with Fifi La Mer and be transported to Paris on 7th March. We have the brilliant Gary Moore Blues Experience coming to Honiton on Saturday 9th March and The Beehive’s residency – Deane Big Band on March 21st, expect an evening in the 1970’s from Fusion to Disco!  Dance the night away with From Gold To Rio on Friday 15th they’ll take you on a nostalgic journey back to the New Romantic era which ruled the charts for over a decade- Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran. Baskery will be performing on 16th March who play a combination of classic ‘roots music and Americana’. 

Come and visit us at The Beehive Honiton where you can find out lots more about our other shows including A Country Music Songbook theatre show as well as The All Seasons show celebrating the work of Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons.

Beehivehoniton.co.uk.

01404 384050. The Beehive, Dowell Street, EX14 1LZ. 

Broadband

Please share your experience of issues caused by the continuing delay in installing superfast broadband in Gittisham village with your Parish Council via or telephone 07535 233558.

PARISH COUNCIL – FEBRUARY 2024 REPORT

Five councillors met for the February meeting. Alasdair Bruce (EDDC) was also present.

Water quality. The focus on seawater bathing quality is a hot topic at present and rightly so, said Alasdair Bruce. He explained there is much anecdotal evidence from outdoor swimmers of a major deterioration in the quality of our coastal waters. Many experience stomach illness and ear infections, even dog walkers tell him their animals are sometimes poorly after a stroll on the beach. With this in mind, Alasdair Bruce thought the parish might be interested in some figures recently released by the EDDC coastal officer:

Permitted Discharges from CSOs (storm overflow discharge): In total in 2023 there were the following (the number in brackets is the number that fell within the formal bathing season May 15th  September 30th) Sandy Bay 21 (8), Exmouth 40 (15), Budleigh 44 (15), Sidmouth 28 (10) Beer 32 (13), Seaton 31(12). Given that in their Water Fit document South West Water commits to achieving no more than 20 discharges at any given beach, this is pretty poor performance.

Devolution. In his absence, Phil Twiss sent a report explaining that the Government had published proposals for a deal that could re-draw the future relationship between local government in Devon, Torbay and Whitehall. It’s hoped that additional powers with the cash that follows will happen in future years. This would enable more decisions to be made locally by people who know their areas best and on things that matter to local people such as building more affordable homes, investing in new quality jobs and skills, and improving public transport.

Finance. Members agreed on the finances.

Crimes. Due to an ongoing error on the Police UK website, it is not possible to report crime statistics.

Planning applications.

a) 8 Campion Way, Honiton – T1, Oak approx. 14 metres high and 14 metres wide at all points; to pollard back to the previous pollard position when work was last carried out in 2016. No objection.

b) Rapshayes Farm, Gittisham – Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) of planning permission 20/0782/LBC (Conversion of barn to holiday accommodation) to change the proposed roof covering from clay Roman tiles to natural slate. No objection.

c) Kings Arms Farm Nags Head Road, Gittisham– House of multiple occupation (HMO), that provides individual living-rooms for vulnerable people; the facility includes communal areas for socialising, cooking and dining set with private and secure gardens. No objection.

Road closures. 20 March: the road to Catshayes closed to install sewer-level equipment.

Broadband. Adam Powell said he had drafted a letter to Richard Foorde MP regarding the continuing delay of installing superfast broadband in Gittisham village. Councillors agreed he should use the village WhatsApp group to build a picture of the issues people experience. To share your experience, please contact or telephone 07535 233558.

Play area. The clerk reported that she had accepted the offer of a free silver birch tree from Devon Wildlife Trust. The organisation is offering parish councils in East Devon, North Devon and Torridge a “landmark” tree to help combat the devastating effect Ash Dieback is having on the landscape.

Next meeting. Thursday 7th March at 7.30 pm 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