FINANCES

At the December meeting the budget was received and it was agreed the precept would remain at £6,500 – the level of the past two years.  Fortunately the Parish Council are already responsible for the extra services that Northumberland County Council are passing to Parish Councils ie, cemeteries and recreation areas which has minimised the impact on the Parish however the Council has taken on responsibility of bus shelters and litter bins and there is the potential for having expenditure should there be a parish election but money has been ring fenced to cover for these eventualities.

RIVERSIDE

The pathway down to the Riverside which was improved this year has suffered some damage due to the flooding since it was installed.  The Clerk has met with the contractors and works for repairs will be undertaken.  These works will include repair works to the footpath, including topping up of the pathway materials and repairs to the bottom of the footpath where the river has washed away some of the materials.  It was agreed to progress with these works as a matter of urgency using ring fenced money and a grant from Groundworks but in the meantime could users please take care when accessing the pathway, especially at the bottom section.

PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS

As you may be aware elections are being held on Thursday 2 May which include Parish Council elections – there has not been one of these for 6 years not.  This is the time for those who are interested in local issues and wish to become a Parish Councillor to look to stand for election.  There will be public events taking place – run by Northumberland County Council – along with a promotional brochure to give more information to residents who may be interested.  However in the meantime if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Clerk for Thirston and Felton Parish Councils – Lisa Hamlin on 01670 783 495 or email at lisa.hamlin@onetel.com.