AT the January meeting of Sandford Parish Council, thanks were extended to Cllr Jim Stephens for erecting the Christmas tree outside the Lamb Inn and purchasing a set of lights on behalf of the Parish Council.

It was agreed to make a donation of £20 to Sandford Congregational Church for supplying the tree and to thank the church members for supplying refreshments. St Swithun’s Church has been approached to take on the organisation of this Event for 2019 onwards and a response was awaited.

It was agreed to make donations to Citizens Advice £200, Victim Support £150 and Mid Devon Mobility (Ring and Ride) £150.

Discussion took place on wording for a sign setting out the regulations for the use of the Creedy View car park. Also a sign to be placed at the Sandford Sports Pavilion advertising contact details for booking the use of the pavilion and facilities.

The Play Area refurbishment/proposed skate park was discussed. It was agreed a further meeting would need to be arranged to discuss the way ahead. The location of the proposed skate park and how it could be incorporated onto the playing field was also discussed.

Mid Devon District Councillor Mrs Judi Binks advised that the District Council was currently dealing with the Local Plan Review Examination and also a Self Build “Build your own House” scheme.?Discussion turned to the relationship between Sandford Parish Council and the District Council as it was not always felt the Parish Council opinions were taken into account or correspondence not always responded to.

The clerk was asked to report Potholes – West Sandford Road, Lodge Corner, and Long Barn. It was also agreed to pass on comments over Milk tankers speeding through the village. Also a damaged stile on the Upton Hellions side of Shaky Bridge.

Devon County Council Highways department advised of a road closure from West Lodge to Rose and Crown Hill Cross (February 16-23 for works by BT). It was understood that DartLine, which runs the 369 bus would also have been notified and will make adjustments to the service whilst these works are carried out.

Cllr Lizzie Dalton congratulated the cast and organisers of the 2018 Pantomime on another great production.

The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Thursday, March 14, from 7.30pm, at Sandford Parish Hall.

Guest Speaker will be Richard Ward who will give an update on the Proposed Joint Doctors Surgery planned for Wellparks in Crediton and his time spent in the NHS.

The next meeting of the council will take place on February 7, from 7.30pm, at Sandford Congregational Church Hall.

MJV