Those present were Chairman Cllr Lambert, Vice/Chairman Cllr Robinson, Cllrs Summers, Harrison, Aves, and Moseley; also D/Cllr Cane.

Apologies received from C/Cllr Fitch, and Cllr Pearson

Cllr Fitch was attending the quarterly Police meeting at which he was to raise the subject of the new local policeman. Cllr Fitch does not feel that he is being well resourced. In his absence Cllr Cane told the PC that Cllr Fitch is to monitor vehicle speed at Mill Hill, Swaffham Prior.

Cllr Cane spoke of the suffering of farmers during the current foot and mouth epidemic. The farmers' markets had been cancelled but were to resume for farmers who did not own cattle. She also spoke of the effect the epidemic was having on the tourist industry - visitors to Ely are down on normal numbers.

Cllr Cane urged PC councillors to put forward names of young persons (11-19) for the Chairman's Award for Young People.

Results of questionnaires about the forthcoming changing political management structure say that 50% would like to see the alternative structure (committees).

The periodic electoral review was taking place. Cllr Cane said every councillor represents the same number of people. She thinks some wards may be too big. PC needs an extra meeting arranged to discuss this.

The school has received an award of £2,000 for its improvement, following the end of 'special measures'. Mr Huns, a teacher at the school, has been made a 'beacon teacher in literacy'. Other teachers may now attend his classes to see how he teaches.

Tony Jordan, acting Chairman of the VHC, had invited local farmers for their input into the possible cancellation of Reach Fair during the current foot and mouth epidemic. MAFF had also been consulted, as had the City Council, who both say the decision rests with the VHC. If the fair goes ahead parking would be difficult. This was discussed, as was any possible insurance re a cancellation or extra problems.

Chairman, Cllr Lambert asked Cllr Summers if he would like to report on the quarterly Police meetings in future. Cllr Summers agreed.

Clerk had met with Chris Fennel from ECDC to discuss the equipment on the play area with a view to risk assessment. It was agreed to act on his advice and to ask for quotes for inspection and risk assessment.

The light attached to the Old Post Office had been replaced with a lower wattage light following complaints from the owner of the house.

Cllrs Lambert and Robinson had met with Stephen Hill from Highways to discuss installation of deterrent posts at the bottom of The Hythe. They also discussed making a channel so that the road does not flood at this point, and getting a quote from Ringway to make a parking area on The Hythe. A solution to the question of mud on the road at Fair Green was proposed.

Roger Handford from the environment agency had sent the Clerk a report about possible mooring posts on the lode. A letter had been received from a parishioner who was not happy about the possibility of the area being spoilt with the installation of these posts.

Cllr Lambert told the PC that he had accepted an invitation to the annual function of East Cambs

District Council at Anglesey Abbey.

James Spragg, Definitive map and records officer from County, had written asking the Clerk if there was any further evidence of the pathway on the underbank drove of Reach Lode being used as a bridleway in the past. Clerk reported that he had been to look through relevant files.

Swaffham Prior Parish Council had replied to a letter from the Clerk (a year ago) giving its tentative approval of directional signs for Lords Ground in Swaffham Prior. Clerk had contacted Highways department for guidance but had yet to hear from anyone.

Planning permission had been granted for Mr and Mrs Kerry to construct a shed in their garden at 20 Fair Green.

A letter had been received from the Department of Trade and Industry regarding the future of local Post Offices.

Cllr Summers declared an interest and left the discussion.

Following representations from Mr Bridgeman and his neighbours (who were against the proposal) it was agreed that whilst the PC was not against the development of the property in principal the extension was too high and would cut light out of the neighbouring garden. Mr Bridgeman was asked if he would change the type of roof to a chalet-type or make a 'step-down' extension in order to lower the height. He agreed that the extension be moved off the boundary to give easier access for maintenance etc. Clerk to write to the planning department at ECDC asking if the application can be discussed at committee level.

The PC had no objection to this proposal.

The Clerk reported little success in requesting a bottle bank to go behind the Dyke's End pub.

Cllr Harrison said that Little Lane was in a mess. Clerk to contact Rights of Way Officer.

Cllr Lambert went through a list of things which Councillors had decided that they would like to see improved in the village. Cllr Cane talked about the possible installation of a computer in the pub for people interested in learning about Information Technology. The possibility of a community room being included in the new village hall extension was also discussed.

It was agreed to buy another salt bin before next winter.

Cllr Summers reported that the village magazine Out of Reach had won an award. He was congratulated (as Editor) by councillors.

Angela Cundell, 38 Great Lane, told the PC she had a dying willow tree in her garden. She was advised that she had to contact the Tree

Officer at ECDC before taking any action to remove it.

Tony Jordan spoke about the forthcoming Reach Fair (see VHC Report) and the arrangements made re park-and-ride to the village, roadblocks etc.

Chairman, Cllr Lambert, thanked Cllr Cane for attending the meeting and being very helpful with advice on several topics discussed.