We continue to look after grass cutting, the cemetery and offer general village support on a number of subjects. We did not have any major planning in the year. We have established the ownership of the cemetery in a more formal way.
We have had an excellent Clerk throughout this year and increased the pay grade that Sheona was on due to the amount of extra work/responsibility that is required with the job. She has done a lot of work with the cemetery to get all the bookwork correct.
We have had more expenditure during this year by introducing a new grass cutting contract and by increasing the Clerk’s salary and paying for her training courses. This has been offset in part by the fact we have not made any donations this year. For next year we will be spending about what we get in, leaving not much for reserves. Our finances have remained healthy overall and we have approximately £15,000 in our accounts after the year end. We increased the precept by 3% for 22-23.
We have had only 5 Councillors this year which does suit the way things are run. We are, however, allowed 7 people in total so we are always open to new blood. We also remain open to helping the community with grants where we can, and welcome applications that meet our criteria.
I’d like to thank Tim Guard for sending out communications, and I would like to thank Nigel for being Vice Chair. And of course Sheona for all her hard work and support.
Richard McCraith