Chairmans Report (May 2022)

Chairmans Report (May 2022)

2021 was a difficult year for everyone as Covid lockdowns affected all aspects of life , but at least 2022 began with hope that life would eventually get back to normal. In our villages I am not aware of anyone dying of Covid, although some people died with the disease. Now life is back to normal and we can look forward to holidays, social occasions and mixing freely both indoors and out.

The Parish Council were able to meet at Bickerton Village Hall, although at least one meeting had to be cancelled and the meeting that did take place came with the inevitable face masks and social distancing. Two vacant seats on the Parish Council were filled by co-option, and we were pleased to welcome Maire Gibson and Sally Williamson in February. Contact details for all Councillors are displayed on the notice boards and the website.

From time to time there is a survey of the governance of the county lookimg at the representation of residents of towns cities and villages to make sure each area of local government, be it wards, parish councils, or unparished areas enjoy equal representation . Locally, it was suggested Bulkeley and Ridley should join with Peckforton to form one large parish council. This was firmly rejected by our parish council and also by Peckforton and the committee overseeing the survey have agreed to leave things as they are.

Beeston and Peckforton are in the process of applying for a speed limit through their stretch of Stonehouse Lane and as soon as they are successful we hope the authorities will agree to extend the speed limit through our stretch of the road. Inevitably some drivers will ignore it, but with a speed limit in place, we will be able to mount Community Speed Watch sessions. If you can spare an occasional hour to help with the current sessions on the A534 in Bulkeley, please get in touch with me or any Councillor.

This year we celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee at the beginning of June. Local events to mark this event begin with a pop – up café at Bickerton Village Hall between 10 am to 2 pm on Thursday 2nd June. Everyone welcome to enjoy bacon and/or sausage butties and the chance to see local pictures of people and places past and present. The pictures were first displayed at the Village Day in 2000. Past and present residents of Bulkeley and Ridley are invited to a Mad Hatter's picnic on Bulkeley playing field from 2pm on Saturday 4th June. Bring your own food, drink, chairs, table cutlery etc and enjoy music and a chance to chat and chill. Shelter available in case of rain. There is a competition with prizes for the best hat so here is your chance to design and wear an amazing titfer.

Idina Hastings

Chairman; Bulkeley and Ridley Parish Council