Use this page to read the summary of the Parish Council business from 1894-1975. Nick George summarised the main events at each meeting recorded in the handwritten minute books into the passage below. Minutes from the meetings post 1975 can be accessed in the meeting minutes section.
Click on a year box below to view a summary of the Parish Council meetings.
On 4 March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. When considering the minutes of the last meeting, Mr Barnham asked that his views on the protection of footpaths should be recorded i.e. “ that footpath rights should be protected when developments are considered”. This was passed unanimously.
It was reported that the Bell Inn Caravan Site Planning Application had been deferred but that an extension to the car park had been sanctioned. It was understood that the Footpath Map would be placed outside the Jubilee Hall.
A Precept for £250 was agreed for the Financial Year 1974/5. Revd Bateson and Miss Wren were re-elected as Managers of Winsham County Primary School. However, if it were established that Revd Bateson is a member ex officio, then Mr Kenneth Parsons of Ammerham Villas would be asked to serve.
It was reported that the sewage scheme would be delayed even more as the contractor had gone in to liquidation. The scheme was now being taken over by the Devon River Authority. The Council decided that it would be wise to write to them pointing out the long delay and the urgency of the matter.
Mr Barnham told the members that Somerset County Council has a statutory obligation to signpost all footpaths which join a metalled road. They have not been doing so in this area. The Clerk was asked to write to them asking them to do so.
Mr Phillips expressed his wish to offer his resignation as he felt that he could no longer carry out his duties as he would wish. His resignation was accepted with very great regret and the Parish Council wishes to record its appreciation for all the valuable service Mr Phillips has given over so long a time.
The date of the Annual Parish Meeting was fixed for 8 April.
On 21 May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. It was reported that an Income Tax refund of £75:17 had been received and had been passed to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. (This related to the dividends on the shares held in The Alliance Property and Cornwall Holdings).
It was also reported that Revd Bateson is not ex officio of the school.
The Council learned that the County Council admitted liability for footpath signing but had told the Parish Council that little money was available. Miss Harding was re-elected as Chairman for the next year with Revd Bateson Vice Chairman. Mr Stockford was appointed as the new Clerk to the Council in place of Mr Phillips.
Mr Evans of Lynch House Purtington was nominated as suitable to be Governor of Holyrood Comprehensive School Chard. There was a long discussion about meeting the cost of street lighting, footpaths and planning applications.
Messrs Barnham and Hebditch were asked to continue to represent the Council at the meetings of the Somerset Association of Parish Councils. Various cheques were signed. (The last two paragraphs of the original minutes appear to be tear stained, these being the last entries made by Mr Phillips).
On 15th July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Council discussed two planning applications, one for Stadway and one for Court Lane. In both cases the Council had not been sent the necessary details by Yeovil District Council. The Clerk was asked to obtain them. Mr Phillips reported that the accounts had been audited. It was suggested that there should be review of the Councils income and expenditure and a sub committee was formed to carry out this task. Members were Major Cameron, Mr Withers and Mr Barnham. It was reported that Yeovil District Council had asked for suggestions for road improvements. The Council decided to send in a number of ideas. Mr Barnham asked for the Council to send a letter to Yeovil District Council requesting that Winsham be entered on the list for footpath signposts. This was agreed.
On 30th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed with the addition of the words “Mr Phillips was present in an advisory capacity”.
There was a discussion about the lack of detail in planning applications and it was agreed to ask Mr Wetherall, our representative on Yeovil District Council, to attend the next Parish Council meeting. The Financial Sub- Committee gave its findings.
The major problem to be dealt with was the cost of grass cutting and the ongoing cost of the maintenance of the mower. It was agreed to ask Mr Beale for an estimate for the mowing of the Burial Ground and Churchyard. An earlier suggestion that volunteers should cut the grass in the Churchyard was not supported. The Council decided to form a sub committee to review burial charges with the aim of bringing them in to line with other areas. Members chosen for it were Major Cameron and Mr Hawker. The Acting Clerk was asked to write to the District Council asking them to cut the grass in the small Recreation Field.
A letter was read from The Ramblers Association offering to monitor the footpaths in the Parish. The letter referred to a report the Ramblers had made and the Clerk was asked to write to them for a copy. A letter from Yeovil District Council was read saying that a public meeting had to be held to consider the classification of the one “ Road Used as a Public Path” (RUPP) in the Parish. This was fixed for 28 October.
No bills were paid at the meeting as Mr Phillips was still in possession of the cheque book, account book, definitive map and other papers. Mr Barnham was asked to collect them from Mr Phillips. As Mr Stockland had resigned as Parish Clerk the Council discussed the problem of finding a replacement. Two names were suggested and it was agreed to approach both in the hope of filling the post.
On 28th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Chairman explained that the purpose of the meeting was to meet the 31October deadline imposed by Yeovil District Council on the classification of RUPP 30/22. Before discussing that, the Council considered several planning applications. The members then decided to form a sub committee to meet a representative from Yeovil District Council to see what assistance they could provide in grounds maintenance. The Council then discussed the resolution passed at the Public Meeting held earlier in the evening. The resolution was to the effect that the path appearing on the definitive map as FP. CH 30/22 be re-classified as “ a byway open to all traffic”. The Council endorsed this decision.
The vacancy for the Clerk to the Council was again discussed and it was agreed to appoint Mr Roy Smart of Hazelwood Farm. The following cheques were signed:
At the beginning of 1975 the relentless thrust of new technology was to have its impact on Winsham Parish Council. The hand-written Minute book would cease to be used to record its deliberations, to be replaced by the typewriter. Copies of the minutes would now be circulated to each member prior to each meeting.
On 31st January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the Current Account Balance at the Westminster Bank was £227:25 and the Deposit Account Balance £83:18. He said that H M Auditors do not like large balances but in view of the impending expenditure on the Cemetery, Churchyard and Recreation Ground it was acceptable. Miss Harding was supported when proposing a Precept for £140.
A plan of the new street signing was passed around and approved.
Mr White briefed the members on the Local Government Reorganisation following several meetings which he had attended. The Clerk reported that he had spoken to the landlord of the George Inn about the flowerpots at the front. He had been told that the landlord was prepared to go to court if necessary as “ he had proof to his boundary in the Deeds of his Property”.
Miss Wren was informed that Chard R.D.C. would deal with the renewal of the licence for the caravans at the Bell Inn and that work on the new sewers for the village would be started in July. Miss Harding asked if a path from Davies Close to the War Memorial could be made inside the rail of the Recreation Ground as the side of the road was in bad condition. The date of the Parish Annual General Meeting was fixed for 29 March.
On 6th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. Members of the public present were Messrs L Strawbridge, G Sear and G Brown. Mr Brown asked for clarification about the future of the Bakers Field Allotments. The Chairman said that Chard R.D.C. had proposed to apply for planning permission for two dwellings on the site. Their idea was that the site would then be offered for sale to the Parish Council. However, the District Valuer had valued it at a price which the Parish Council could not afford. Chard R.D.C. had then decided that the area should remain as allotments and new tenancy agreements will be offered to present holders with effect from 1 April. The Chairman then said that the new street signs should be in place by 31 March 1974.
It was reported that the new application for ten holiday caravans behind the Bell Inn had been turned down. The licensee had been invited to apply for permission for six but to date no paperwork had been submitted.
The Clerk said that the bill for restoring the dial of the Church clock was £103:40. Messrs John Smith & Son of Derby did the work. It was agreed that the Parochial Church Council should pay the VAT of £9:40.
The Meeting ended with Mr White thanking Colonel Boyce, Mr Wren and Mr Phillips for their services to the Council as they have chosen not to seek re-election. Colonel Boyce thanked Mr White for his services over the past years, he also having decided not to seek re-election. Various cheques were signed.
On 19th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall following the elections held on 7 June, the results of which were:
Miss Harding was elected as Chairman with Revd Bateson Vice Chairman. There followed a unanimous vote of thanks to the outgoing Council. Various Council Representatives were chosen as follows:
County Association of Parish Councils -Messrs Barnham and Hebditch
Jubilee Hall Management Committee - Miss Wren
Recreation Ground - Mr Hawker
Charity Committee- Revd Bateson, Mr Withers and Miss Harding
Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk until 1 April 1974.
It was reported that the lowest estimate for the new sewage works had been accepted, subject to scrutiny. It was for £140,595:19. At the end of the meeting, Mr K Weatherall, the elected member for the Rural District Council to represent Winsham, Cricket St Thomas, Misterton, Clapton, Hewish etc., was introduced to the members of the Council and was welcomed by the Chairman. Mr Weatherall explained his role and made clear his intention to attend all the meetings when the new Chard R.D.C. came into operation on 1 April 1974. He said he would do his utmost to help any project put forward by the Parish and would report in due course.
Two cheques were signed.
On 2nd August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. A letter from Mr Phelps complaining about the state of the Cemetery was read. It was agreed to have a meeting with Mr Beale to resolve the problem. It was reported that Tenancy Agreements were being prepared for the Band Hut and for the Allotments by Chard R.D.C. It was agreed that a map showing all the local footpaths should be made available to the public. It was suggested that the Jubilee Hall Committee took over the papers to apply for a refund of income tax paid on the income from the shares of the Alliance Property and Cornwall Holdings. The Clerk informed the Council that he would make the claim!
On 1st October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. It was reported that Tenancy Agreements had been completed for the Allotments with the following:
Agreements were also concluded with the Band Hut and land part O.S. 320 near Bakersfield.
The Clerk reported that an income tax refund of £82 was expected on the Jubilee Hall shares but that the Inland Revenue required a statement of accounts from the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. A discussion followed over ownership of the Hall. It was now run by a Management Committee under the rules and regulations of the Trustees Charities. Miss Harding agreed to supply the necessary details to the Inland Revenue. The Clerk said that the accounts had been audited on 12 September and that the General Account was £415:42 in credit and the Burial Account £120:98 in debt.
It was therefore agreed to set a Precept for £250 in order to clear the Burial Account debt. The meeting was told that work on the new sewage system would probably start in November.
Miss Harding reported on the changes that were likely to happen to the 9 to 11 year old children with them going to Chard. Cheques were signed for the following:
On 3rd December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. It was reported that work on the new sewage system had been delayed and was now due to start in the month of December. The Council were made aware of delays in planning applications. This was being caused by the reorganisation of local government. One of the schemes affected was for the enlargement of the caravan site behind the Bell Inn.
It was agreed to increase the insurance cover on the Jubilee Hall from £9000 to £22000.
The Clerk agreed to update the Grave Plan kept in the Church porch. Mr Barnham was told that the installation of the footpath map in the Jubilee Hall would be left to the Management Committee. He later told the Council that he thought, “ that footpath rights should be protected when developments are considered”.
On 14th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. It was reported that the private bus service was being well used and greatly appreciated. A request from Mr Evans, Caretaker of the Cemetery, to be paid in cash was refused.
The Clerk reported that the Alliance Property Shares held by the Council on behalf of the Jubilee Hall Management Committee have been taken over by Cornwall Holdings and the share certificates have been received by Mr Phillips.
When the Income Tax Recovery has been completed on all dividends, these certificates will be passed to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. The following people were appointed Trustees of the Sir Matthew Holsworthy Charity and the Charity of John Wheadon:
Mr White, a member of the R.D.C. Planning Committee, reported that an application to build a bungalow East of Whatley Farm had been refused but Mr K D J Slade was authorised to build a bungalow and garage in Back Street. The Clerk reported that the village of Merriot had recently installed street signs successfully. It was agreed to ask Chard R.D.C. to proceed with a similar scheme for Winsham. It was decided to hold the Annual Meeting on 27 March.
On 7th June the Annual Parish Council Meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was re-elected as Chairman with Miss Harding as Vice Chairman. Messrs White and Phillips were chosen to serve as Winsham Parish Councils representatives on The Somerset Association of Parish Councils. Miss Ralston agreed to serve on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee and Mr Hawker on the Playing Fields Committee. On the advice of Chard R.D.C. the Precept was set at £140 rather than the £160, which had been planned. Mr White reported on the progress of a number of planning applications. A letter was read from Mr Grabham saying that he was unable to carry on cutting the grass in the Cemetery, Churchyard and Recreation Ground. This came about as a result of Mr Evans resignation. He said he could manage the Churchyard and Recreation Ground but not the Cemetery as well. The Council decided to advertise for an assistant if no one came forward from the village at 40p per hour. A letter was read from the Parochial Church Council asking for assistance in paying for the repairs and restoration of the Church clock. The estimate for the necessary work was £142. After a lengthy discussion the Council agreed to meet the full cost. It was reported that the Toc H seat in the Children’s Recreation Ground was being repaired by Mr Slade. It had begun to rot and was quite dangerous. Miss Wren complained about the number of caravans behind the Bell Inn and of the untidiness of the area. She recommended that Chard R.D.C. should inspect the site and check that the terms of the licence are being adhered to. This was agreed.
On 20th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. He reported that he had contacted a Mr Beales from Combe St Nicholas who was willing to cut the Cemetery grass and to keep the area tidy. It was reported that the Council was entitled to pay for the renovation of the Church clock but not for the cost of cleaning its workings! The Councils bill was therefore revised to £94.
It was learned that the licence for holiday caravans behind the Bell Inn was due for renewal in January. The Chairman said he would look in to the matter then. The Clerk reported that the audit had been completed and that the Burial Account was £56:2:8d in debt.
A letter of resignation from Miss Ralston was accepted with great regret. She had explained that she was returning to Scotland for family reasons and was sorry to be leaving Winsham. The Clerk was asked to write a letter of appreciation to her mentioning in particular her outstanding contribution to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. The Council agreed to co-opt Mr Wren to replace Miss Ralston and to ask Mrs Wren to serve on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee.
The members later decided to ask the Women’s Section of the British Legion to take on the cleaning of the War Memorial as the Men’s Section had now been disbanded. The Clerk was asked to contact a stonemason to have the names made more distinct.
The Chairman agreed to investigate a request for some garages in Davies Close. It was proposed by Colonel Boyce and seconded by Mr Withers that the Clerk be paid an Honorarium of £20 for the Financial Year 1971/2. This was agreed. Various cheques were signed.
On 15th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. It was reported that the work done in the Cemetery by Mr Beale and Mr Grabham was satisfactory and that the Ministry had accepted the plans for a new sewage works. Once the contract has been signed for the sewage works more houses will be able to be built in the village.
It was reported that Mr Alan Rudkin had cleaned the War Memorial and that the names are now visible. The Council decided to defer work on the Church clock until the spring. The Chairman reported that Chard R.D.C. was not in favour of garages being built in Davies Close. Miss Wren complained of the delay in the provision of street names. The Clerk was asked to contact Chard R.D.C.
Miss Harding agreed to become a Trustee of The Holsworthy and Wheaton Charities in place of Miss Ralston.
An offer of some hard wood trees from Chard R.D.C. was discussed. It was thought that they could be planted at the Western edge of the Recreation Ground. Mr Muggeridge was to be asked to survey the site.
Miss Wren asked about the sale or demolition of the five thatched cottages in Western Way. She was told that the purchaser could either demolish them or restore them to a standard acceptable to Chard R.D.C.
It was decided that the shares certificates held by Mr Phillips should be handed over to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. The following cheques were signed:
On 4th January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. After a long discussion the Council decided to hand over the share certificates, (originally Royal Agricultural Hall Shares), to the Official Custodian for Charities. A letter was read from Chard R.D.C. offering a grant of £200 towards the cost of a pavilion on the new Recreation Ground. It was reported that the Recreation Ground Committee had applied to The Department of the Environment for a major grant for a pavilion and that this had been supported by the Regional Priorities Committee. Miss Wren questioned why the £200 had been given towards the Recreation Ground Pavilion rather than to the Jubilee Hall. The Clerk said that he had been involved in getting the grant and had worked on behalf of the Recreation Ground Project as it had been deemed the top priority at the Annual Parish Meeting. Miss Ralston asked whether the grant could be shared but the Clerk said that the allocation had been finalised. Miss Harding asked that in any future allocation from the R.D.C. Village Amenity Fund that the Jubilee Hall be kept in the forefront of “ necessary amenities”.
The Council agreed that the bill of £44:11:0d for the repair of the Church clock should be met by the ratepayers. The members also agreed to buy the new Parish Council Notice Board supplied by the Jubilee Hall Management Committee for £5:10:0d.
The subject of the Burial Ground was raised again and the Council decided to ask the Clerk to write to Mr Hartley, Clerk to Chard R.D.C., informing him “ that the Parish Council are firm in their desire to purchase ¼ acre of land to the West of the existing Cemetery and to refer back to the Parish Council before any question of compulsory purchase being initiated with the owner”.
A Precept for £160 was agreed for the Financial Year 1971/2. The Chairman complimented Miss Ralston and her band of volunteers on the re-decoration of the Main Hall in the Jubilee Hall. A Planning Sub Committee was considered to be necessary following a suggestion from the Chairman. Miss Wren and Mr Withers were chosen to serve on it. Two cheques were signed.
On 1st March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. Miss Ralston reported that she had had a meeting with Mr White, Treasure of Chard R.D.C., and had been told that an application for a grant for the Jubilee Hall from the R.D.C. Parish Amenities Fund would be considered favourably. The Council agreed to submit an application.
An application from The Winsham Flower Festival for a grant from the Council was refused, it being felt that Public Funds should not be used for such events. A letter from Chard R.D.C. offering a plot of land in Poole’s Lane for sale was discussed. The Clerk said that he thought Mr Hudd wanted it for a garden and it was thought that Mr Hudd should deal directly with Chard R.D.C. The Parish Council agreed to support his application.
The Clerk reported that the cost of the contested election of Parish and R.D.C. Councillors in 1970 was £35:4:9d. He said that this cost would be borne by the Parish. Various cheques were signed.
On 17th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Appointments agreed for the next year were:
The Chairman reported that all grants for village amenities had been frozen due to a lack of funds. There was a long discussion about “ obstacles being placed on the highway outside the George Inn”. It was reported that Chard R.D.C. had written to the owner, Mr Rosser, but that nothing had been done. The Parish Council decided to take up the matter with Mr Rosser.
It was reported that Mr Jones, Headmaster of the Primary School, had written to ask if “ a small continuation of the pavement around the corner at Mrs Manning’s house into Fore Street could be made as this would considerably help the small children around this corner”. The Council agreed to apply to the Highways Authorities for something to be done. Various cheques were signed.
There was a Parish Meeting at 8pm on 29th September attended by about eighty villagers. It was held in the Jubilee Hall and was chaired by Mr White. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the withdrawal of the bus service to Winsham by the Western National Bus Company. It was a long meeting finally ending at 9:55pm. The Chairman opened matters by outlining the reasoning behind the company’s decision. Many villagers spoke. One important fact revealed was that at least thirty villagers had no means of transport. Mr Baumgartner suggested that private companies should be allowed to take over routes being withdrawn by the National Company and to extend these routes in to areas covered by the National Company. It was decided to form a delegation to lobby the Bus Company Area Manager in Exeter. Members of the delegation chosen were Miss Harding, Mr Buckler, Mr Baumgartner, Mrs Noreen White, Mrs J White and Mr A R White. At the end of the meeting Mr White was thanked for his “ splendid Chairmanship”.
On 20th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. He opened the meeting by giving an update on the bus service. A census had revealed that of 189 houses visited 106 used the bus regularly. He said that he had discussed the situation with Chard R.D.C. It was reported that loan applications from Chard R.D.C. for the next three years stood at £76,000 of which only £40,000 was available. It was agreed that £1500 should be earmarked for the purchase of land for an extension to the Burial Ground. The Clerk was asked to contact Cricket Malherbie Dairies to establish why the Winsham Milkman refuses to deliver to Ammerham Farm House!
Various cheques were signed.
On 10th November there was a meeting of the Parish Council and the General Public in the Jubilee Hall at 7:45pm. Mr White was Chairman. About forty villagers attended. Mr White gave a resume as to what had happened since the meeting on 29 September (withdrawal of bus service). He said a large meeting had been held at Snowden House in Chard on 29 October attended by all the interested parties including the members of the “ Winsham Delegation”. The minutes of that meeting were read and then Mr Baumgartner was given the opportunity to air his views. Villagers were invited to comment on the proposed new timetable which Miss Harding had had displayed on a blackboard. It was for a service on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Some changes were agreed.
On 5th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. A letter of resignation from Revd Fairweather from the Board of School Managers was read out. It was reported that Revd Bateson was willing to replace him. This offer was accepted. A Precept of £160 was fixed for the financial year 1970/71. The Council decided to re- classify the road leading from Chalkway Mill to Hollowells as a Public Footpath rather than as Road No 30/22. This would allow it to continue to be part of an enjoyable walk for villagers. The members voted to seek an extra £100 to pay for the purchase and erection of street names signs. It was reported that the building of the new telephone exchange would start shortly in Appleby’s Orchard, the legal paperwork having been almost finished. The Clerk told the meeting that Mr Saunders would meet the cost of repairing the pillar at the entrance to the children’s playground. It was his cattle that had caused the damage. Mr Phillips said that he had handed over the Alliance Property Holdings Dividend of £10:15:3d to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. It was reported that 9 May had been chosen as Election Day for the new Council. The Annual General Meeting was fixed for 16 March. Various cheques were signed.
On 1st June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. The results of the Triennial Elections were announced and were as follows:
Mr White was elected as Chairman with Miss Harding Vice Chairman. Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk but only until the end of the 1970/71 Financial Year. Revd Bateson and Miss Wren were chosen to represent the Council on the School Management Board. Miss Ralston was appointed to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee as the Parish Council Representative. Mr Hawker agreed to serve on the Recreation Ground Committee.
Revd Bateson gave a report on the possible re-opening of the Churchyard and read a letter from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government stating that “ there is no way of revoking a closing order, but in certain circumstances an order may be varied by a Variation Order under Section 1 of the Burial Act 1855”. A long discussion followed at the end of which the Clerk was asked to contact Mrs Bollom about buying some land for an extension to the present Burial Ground.
The Chairman told the meeting that as the Post Office was introducing a postcode system in the near future it would be necessary to re-number some houses in the village. The Council decided to seek guidance on this from Chard R.D.C. Cheques were signed for the following:
On 16th September the Council met at Mr Whites, Church Street at 7:30pm. Mr White was Chairman. It was reported that the new parking spaces in Western Way had been completed and were being used.
The Clerk reported that the accounts had been audited and that the balance in the Burial Account was £45:2:1d and in the General Account £346:19:0d. He was supported when he suggested that he contacted the Clerk of Chard R.D.C. about an extension to the Burial Ground.
A letter was read from Chard R.D.C. saying that the cost of street signs would have to be borne by the Parish ratepayers and that the Ministry of Housing and Local Government had already issued the necessary order.
A letter from the School Managers was read about the treatment of Mr Rowe on the completion of his term of office as Parish Council Representative on the Board of Managers. There had been a complete misunderstanding, as Mr Rowe did not realise that his term of office had expired and as he was leaving the district another person had taken his place. The Council expressed their great appreciation of the good work he had done. The Chairman and Clerk had seen Mr Rowe and his family and the whole matter had been explained satisfactorily. Various cheques were signed.
On 12th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. A Precept of £160 was agreed for the financial year 1969/70. There was a discussion about car parking in Western Way. It was reported that Chard R.D.C. favoured a lay bye at the far end of the road and for there to be parking spaces created behind Nos 5-8 Western Way. The cost of such a scheme was estimated at £2300. It was said that a number of villages have the same problem and it will be for the R.D.C. to set priorities. The Council decided to buy a new Hayter 21 with which to cut the grass in the Cemetery, Churchyard and Recreation Ground. The plan was for the machine to be demonstrated on 15 March and, if it proved satisfactory, to be bought for about £90. The Annual General Meeting was fixed for 20 March.
On 23rd May the Council met at Mr Whites house. Miss Harding was re-elected as Chairman with Mr White Vice Chairman. It was reported that the mower trial had gone well and a Hayter 21 duly purchased. The Clerk said that the site for car parking had been approved and that the only problem was getting the necessary funding. It was reported that the burial fees had been compared to those in Chard and it was agreed to send their fees to the Ministry for approval. The question of extra land for burials was raised and it was decided to leave the matter in abeyance until a new incumbent takes office. Mr Wren was chosen to replace Mr White as the Parish Council Representative on the Recreation Ground Management Committee. Mr White had said that he wished to stand down due to other commitments. Miss Ralston agreed to continue to serve on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee for another year. Two cheques were signed.
On 20th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. It was reported that work would start shortly on the car parking area on Western Way. Colonel Boyce proposed that the thanks of the Parochial Church Council be conveyed to Mr Evans and Mr Grabham for the general tidiness of the Churchyard and surrounds for the induction of the new incumbent. An application from the Jubilee Hall Management Committee to have one long communal notice board outside the Hall was granted. The board was to have separate secure spaces for the various village organisations. The Council decided to have its own separate board but of the same design and at the same height as the main board. Each organisation would have its own key and would pay five shillings a year for this new facility. An application from the Winsham Women’s Institute to place a litter basket behind the seat on the Children’s Playground was granted. The W. I. had undertaken to empty it as required. The Clerk reported that the accounts had been audited and that the balance in the Burial Account was £89:3:1d and in the General Account £167:7:10d. The Clerk reported that the new reservoir being built on Leigh Hill would hold 600,000 gallons of water. Messrs Fletcher & Co from Poole were the contractors. He also reported that Chard R.D.C. had inspected the stiles at the entrance to the Cemetery and had considered them to be satisfactory. Other footpaths and stiles were to be inspected in due course. The Council decided to ask Revd Bateson, the new incumbent, to serve on the School Management Board in place of Revd Fairweather should the latter not wish to continue. The Clerk read a letter from the Secretary of the National Association of Parish Councils saying that a suitable piece of land for a burial ground may be done in accordance with the Burial Act 1852, 26 as amended, the consent of a Parish Meeting not being required. Various cheques were signed.
On 6th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr White was Chairman. A letter was read from the Diocesan Land Agent Mr Horsey saying that “ the main gate leading in to the Glebe Field would be chained and padlocked and that the key would be kept in the Vestry table drawer for the use of bone fide traffic. Displeasure was expressed by the Council but decided to take no action in the matter.” The Clerk forecast a Precept of £160 for the financial year 1968/9. He announced that the recent audit had been satisfactory and that there was an overall balance of £588:13:3d. This figure included the Alliance Property Holdings Stock and Ordinary Shares. Mr Phillips then said that he thought that the first four units of the Old Peoples Bungalows would be ready for occupation in about six weeks time. It was planned that they would be opened by the Rural District Council. It was reported that the Winsham Telephone Exchange was over loaded and that a new site was required. It was thought that an area behind the thatched cottages in West Street would be the most suitable. The Annual Parish Meeting was arranged for 27 March in the Jubilee Hall at 7:45 pm. Various cheques were signed.
On 4th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. The Annual General Meeting followed. The first meeting was brief and only confirmed the minutes of the previous meeting. Miss Harding then vacated the chair before the Annual Meeting started. She was unanimously re-elected as Chairman. Mr White was also re-elected as Vice Chairman, again unanimously. Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk.
There was a discussion about re-siting the War Memorial, the conclusion being that it would be too expensive to do so. The Clerk reported that the proposed diversion of part of the Chard to Winsham road i.e. between Street Farm and Whatley Farm had been displayed to the public and there had been no objections. He said that the plan would therefore be approved by the Highway Authority in due course.
The Council debated a letter from the Misses Hunt of Bridge complaining of the poor maintenance of local footpaths and asking for them to be signed. The Clerk said that he had spoken to Chard R.D.C. and that the necessary work had been noted and would be done in due course. The Chairman asked Mr Phillips to take up the matter of the Green Lane Diversion with Chard R.D.C. It was reported that the lease on the Recreation Ground, a 99 year period at a rent of £1 per annum, had been signed by the Chairman and the Clerk. (The lease was between Chard R.D.C. and the Recreation Ground Management Committee rather than the Parish Council.) The Council agreed that the sum of £300, paid by Chard R.D.C. for the old Recreation Ground, should be credited to the Recreation Ground Committee once expenses had been deducted. A cheque for £150 was authorised for payment straight away. Various other cheques were signed.
On 2nd October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk produced a map showing all the local footpaths. This map had been prepared by Chard R.D.C. following the complaint from the Misses Hunt at the last meeting. Mr White took charge of it and undertook to have it displayed in the shop. The Clerk reported that negotiations and planning for the new telephone exchange were going ahead. He also reported that the recent audit had gone well, the only comment being the large amount of money on deposit. The Clerk had explained that some of it was money paid for the old Recreation Ground which would be transferred to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee shortly. Mr Phillips said that Messrs Clarke, Lukin and Newton, the firm of Chard Solicitors handling the transfer of land for the Council, had completed their work for nothing as the Recreation Ground Committee was a Trust. The Chairman agreed to write to thank them for their generosity. The Clerk reported that he had handed over the sum of £10:15:3d to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. This money was the dividend received from the eight and a half per cent Unsecured Loan Stock 1992/97 for the half year ended 31 July 1968. There was a discussion about signing each street and having street lighting but both ideas were dropped due to cost. Cheques were signed for the following:
On 20th November the Council met with Miss Harding acting as Chairman. The Clerk said that H M Auditors had pointed out that burial fees need to be approved by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government and that this had not been done in 1948 when the last revision was approved by the Parish Council. He said that a revision was needed now and that he would make the necessary application. This was agreed. Two cheques were signed.
On 16th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. She opened the meeting by welcoming Major and Mrs Cameron who were present. She then welcomed back Mr Phillips after his illness. A Precept of £160 for the year 1967/8 was agreed. The Clerk reported that he had exchanged letters with Mr Horsey, the Assistant Diocesan Land Agent, about the purchase of land for a right of way and a Cemetery extension. After a long discussion the Council asked the Clerk to arrange a meeting between themselves and Mr Horsey. The Annual General Parish Meeting was arranged for 29 March. A cheque payable to C H Rudkin for playground signs and fittings was signed. On 16 March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. She opened the meeting by welcoming Major and Mrs Cameron who were present. She then welcomed back Mr Phillips after his illness. A Precept of £160 for the year 1967/8 was agreed. The Clerk reported that he had exchanged letters with Mr Horsey, the Assistant Diocesan Land Agent, about the purchase of land for a right of way and a Cemetery extension. After a long discussion the Council asked the Clerk to arrange a meeting between themselves and Mr Horsey. The Annual General Parish Meeting was arranged for 29 March. A cheque payable to C H Rudkin for playground signs and fittings was signed.
On 1st June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. The Clerk reported the result of the uncontested election held on 6 May. The following people were elected:
Miss Harding was re-elected as Chairman with Mr White as Vice Chairman. Mr Phillips asked to resign as Clerk to the Council and Burial Board for health reasons. He said he would “ endeavour to carry on until a successor is found”. The Council agreed to install three new swings in the playground at a cost of £30:15:0d. This sum did not include labour costs. Revd Fairweather and Police Officer Rowe were chosen to be Council representatives on the School Management Board. Miss Ralston agreed to serve on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. Mr Grabham was chosen to serve on the Recreation Ground Committee. Various cheques were signed.
On 3rd August an Extraordinary Meeting of the Council was held with Mr Horsey, Assistant Diocesan Surveyor, in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The aim of this meeting was to negotiate the purchase of some land for an extension to the Cemetery and to acquire the legal right of way to the Cemetery. During a long debate Mr Horsey revealed that the Council had no right of way at the moment due to faulty legal work when the land was bought as a Burial Ground in 1890. He said he could produce the necessary documents to prove this. As regards the Parish Councils request for a portion of the Glebe Land he said that the incumbent would not favour this, in fact, he had given a flat refusal. Mr Horsey agreed to see the incumbent again to explain to him the Councils point of view. A cheque was signed to Mr Evans for £57:15:0d for grounds maintenance.
On 5th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk reported that he had not heard anything from Mr Horsey about the Cemetery extension and right of way. There was a discussion about the confusion caused by the house numbering system. Major Cameron had written to say that there were two houses numbered 1 in Fore Street. Members said that they were aware that the numbering in Church Street was also confusing. A long discussion ended without a plan to solve the problem.
The Clerk reported that there had been a meeting with Chard R.D.C. officials to try to resolve the problem of congestion caused by the lack of parking for the council houses in Western Way and Fore Street. It was agreed that an area between Bakers Field and Western Way should be made available and that lay- byes should be created in Back Street.
On 7th December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Council supported unanimously a proposal by Mr White and seconded by Miss Ralston that the Old Peoples Bungalows be named Davies Close. This, he explained, would recognise the gift to the village of the land on which they stand by the late Sir George Davies. The land served originally as a Recreation Ground and was subsequently exchanged for a larger area at West Field.
It was reported that the War Memorial had been repaired in time for Remembrance Sunday but that much more work was needed. Colonel Boyce said that such work was beyond the resources of the Legion. A long discussion took place over the re-siting of the Memorial but no conclusion was reached. A letter was read out suggesting that the ceiling of the Jubilee Hall should be lowered to save heat, the lighting improved and the Hall redecorated. A debate followed, the conclusions of which were that the ceiling should not be lowered, that secondary glazing should be installed on the windows and that the re-decoration should go ahead as planned on a self help basis. A letter was read from the Diocesan Assistant Surveyor informing the Council that the Benefice would not sell any land for an extension to the Cemetery but would sell land for a right of way. After due discussion the Council decided to refuse this offer. The Clerk reported that he had handed over the Alliance Property Dividend to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee.
On 16th February the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Council agreed to place between £150 and £175 on deposit at the Westminster Bank to pay for the repairs to the Churchyard wall. A letter from Colonel Tomkins complaining about the state of the Court Street-Wynyards Lane road had been forwarded by the Clerk to the Highways Authority, as had the letter from Miss Newick about the dangerous bend at Whitegate. The Council agreed to ask Messrs Clarke, Lakin and Newton to act on the Councils behalf over the exchange of land with Chard R.D.C. There was a debate about the billeting of refugees in the case of nuclear attack. The following motion was carried unanimously, “ That the Civil Defence Committee of the R.D.C. be invited to produce a key plan on a Dispersal Billeting Scheme and submit same to the Parish Council for perusal”. The members agreed to meet at the Churchyard on 23 February at 5.30pm to inspect the wall. They also agreed to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on 30 March in the School Room. Another letter of complaint about the state of the Cemetery Lane footpath was discussed. The Council decided to send it with a covering letter to the incumbent. There was a discussion about a letter from Chard R.D.C. concerning The Lighting and Watching Act. The Council agreed that they did not want to adopt the Act “ until such time as the Parish Council wish to install street lighting.” The following cheques were signed:
On 23rd February the Council met at the Churchyard as agreed. They inspected the wall and agreed that it should be repaired to the second level in phases. It was decided that the first section to be repaired should be the seventy foot length from Church Street to the Priests Walk from the Vicarage to the Church. It would be necessary to advertise for tenders in the local press. Miss Harding chaired this meeting.
On 2nd June the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk reported that there had only been one tender to repair the Churchyard wall. This had come from Mr Fowler of Chard. It had been accepted, he had done the work very well and it was agreed to pay him £138 for this section. His tender of £180 for the second phase was accepted and the Council decided to ask him to complete this part as soon as possible. “ The usual Red Herring re the state of the footpaths in the village was again brought forward in respect of the footpaths leading from Poole’s Lane to the Cemetery and Broadenham Farm to Court Street.” The Clerk was asked to follow up this complaint. Mr Phillips reported that the Toc H seats had been installed and were greatly appreciated by both young and old. The Council regretted very much the passing of Hilda Mary Evans, a member of the Council for many years. It was agreed that the Chairman would represent the Council at the funeral. The following cheques were signed:
At the conclusion of the ordinary Parish Council Meeting on 2nd June, the Annual Parish Meeting was held. Miss Harding was re-elected as Chairman with Mr White as Vice Chairman. Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk, again!! Miss Ralston agreed to continue as the Parish Councils representative on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee.
The Clerk was asked to contact Chard R.D.C. about the dangerous corner at Whatley Bottom, the hedge at White Gate belonging to Mr Baker a retired dentist and the roadway at the Ammerham railway bridge.
On 27th June the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss “ The Deeds of Release of the Parish Owned Recreation Ground for Larger Area of West Field owned by Chard R.D.C.” The document was scrutinised and various comments and observations made. “ Miss Ralston proposed and seconded by Colonel Boyce that Mr Phillips be thanked most sincerely for his hard work on behalf of the Council in bringing the negotiations to a successful conclusion. Carried unanimously. Mr Phillips could not reply. Words failed him.”
The Council met on 8th August in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The idea of this particular meeting was for the invited representatives of all the village clubs to hear of the plans for the new Recreation Ground and of what grants might be available for equipment and facilities. Mr Goodliffe, Secretary of the Somerset Playing Fields Association and Mr Hartley, Clerk and Solicitor to Chard R.D.C. were present to brief the audience and to answer any queries. The Clerk agreed to obtain the necessary forms to apply for grants and a Steering Committee was formed to get things under way. Members were:
On 15th August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with the Recreation Ground Steering Committee for a joint discussion. Miss Harding was Chairman. Mr Dawson agreed to obtain estimates for the cost of a hard tennis court and Colonel Boyce told the meeting that no one should regard the new Recreation Ground as simply a gift. It was, he said, an amenity and each club using it needs to be financially self-supporting. It was agreed that any ideas for the new facility should be aired at the General Parish Meeting planned for 14 September.
On 14th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the repairs to the Churchyard wall would continue as soon as the contractor, Mr Fowler, had recovered after breaking both wrists! He then stated that the accounts had been audited and had been found to be in order. The only comment concerned the Clerks expenses and the Council voted unanimously for Mr Phillips to be given £10 to meet these costs. He was thanked for his hard work in dealing with the auditors. The Clerk provided an update on the legal details of acquiring the new Recreation Ground and he said that he had fixed a meeting with Mr Horsey, Assistant Diocesan Land Agent, on 27 September to discuss the Poole’s Lane - Cemetery footpath. Several Council members agreed to attend this get together. Various cheques were signed.
On 26th October the Council met at Mr Whites house. Mr White was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the District Surveyor had visited Whatley Bottom. He had stated that some improvement could be made subject to the approval of the landowner Mrs C Pym. The Clerk then read out correspondence he had received from the Assistant Diocesan Surveyor with suggestions to resolve the “Right of Way” to the Cemetery. After a discussion the Council agreed to try to buy half an acre of land plus the right of way. An application for a licence to keep caravans behind the Bell Inn for a further year was approved. The conditions were to remain unchanged. The Clerk read a letter from the Correspondent of the Primary School seeking payment for Council meetings held at the School. After a discussion it was agreed that the Clerk should take up the matter with Commander Jesseman, the County Council Representative. Various cheques were signed.
On 3rd February the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. She opened the meeting by thanking all Council members for attending the Memorial Service for the late Sir Winston Churchill. The Clerk reported that he had had a fruitful meeting with the District Surveyor. They had discussed the various problem areas and he was assured that action would be taken. He said that they had met a very friendly Mr Ibbotson who had agreed to remove the heap of stones but reserved the right to put them back if vehicles continued to damage his property. A Precept of £90 for the Year 1965/6 was agreed. Colonel Boyce reported on the Jubilee Hall and to it being registered as a charity and so legalising the position. It was agreed to have notices displayed locally and also to have one put in the Chard and Ilminster News. After a period of twenty-one days, Colonel Boyce, Chairman of the Hall Management Committee, would regularise the registration. It was agreed to update the insurance cover on the Hall in consultation with the Management Committee and for the Parish Council to pay the premium. It was reported that the matter of the Green Lane Bridleway would be heard at Ilminster Magistrates Court on 25 March. The Clerk and Mr White agreed to attend.
A long discussion took place about the Churchyard wall. It was reported that some sixty foot had collapsed and that the remainder was in a dangerous state. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to the Ministry to determine the way ahead. Various cheques were signed.
On 1st April the Council met in the Jubilee Hall prior to the Annual Parish Meeting. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk reported that he had made enquiries as to who was responsible for repairing the Churchyard wall but believed that the answer would be a long time coming.
On 14th April the Council assembled in the Jubilee Hall for an Extra Ordinary Meeting. The purpose was to discuss the Green Lane Bridleway (the meeting had been requested by Somerset County Council following a three month adjournment of the case by Ilminster Magistrates). Mr Strickland from Somerset County Council was invited with Mr Hartley from Chard R.D.C. and Mr Warren the landowner concerned. Mr Carr of Purtington, Mr Ian Macdonald, Agent for the Cricket St Thomas Estate and Mrs Rudkin of Kentsleigh Estate also attended. Miss Harding chaired the meeting. Mr Strickland opened the discussion by saying that considerable costs could be involved in retaining a Bridleway, which, in his opinion and that of the Magistrates, appeared not to be used. Mr Hartley supported this view. Mr Warren said that he was unaware that the Bridleway existed when he built on it as his deeds were with his solicitor. He said he felt it better to build on derelict land rather than on good ground. The Clerk found this statement “difficult to understand”. Mr Carr thought that matters should be left as they were. A long discussion followed “getting nowhere”. The Parish Council then asked all guests to leave the room while they debated the issue privately. The conclusion of this debate was that the Council voted “ that the Bridle Way 30/19 on the Definitive Map and known as Green Lane be kept open at Reasonable Expense as a Bridle Way”. The guests then rejoined the meeting and were told of the Councils decision. Mr Strickland agreed to inform Somerset County Council and to arrange for the County Surveyor to “have something done”.
On 28th May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. The minutes of the Extra Ordinary Meeting were read and signed. A long discussion followed in which the Clerk gave his account of that meeting and expressed his disappointment at the attitude of the Council. (The voting at the Extra Ordinary Meeting had been four in favour, one against and two abstentions.) The Chairman referred to an earlier meeting at which the Council had voted unanimously to keep Green Lane open implying that the Councils resolution should not be questioned. The members then agreed to apply to Somerset County Council for a diversion to the footpath from Church Street to Broadenham to rectify the error made by the Planning Authority in allowing a concrete yard to be placed across the original footpath. It was reported that the British Legion had offered to reset and point the War Memorial at no cost. This offer was accepted. Miss Ralston was appointed as the Councils representative on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. The Chairman proposed and Colonel Boyce seconded a vote of thanks to Mr Phillips for his wonderful work over the past year and for allowing a room in his house to be used as The Parish Council Office. Various cheques were signed.
At the conclusion of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting on 28th May the Annual Parish Council Meeting was held in the School Room. Miss Harding was re-elected as Chairman with Mr White as Vice Chairman. Reports were given on the Recreation Ground, the Jubilee Hall, Cemetery and the Churchyard. Miss Ralston found unanimous support for her resolution for the Council to write to Chard R.D.C. “ in the strongest possible terms” of local concern about the danger posed by Whatley Bottom to motorists and pedestrians.
On 21st July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. Others present were Mr White, Colonel Boyce, Mr Grabham, Mr Hawker, Miss Ralston and Mr Phillips. Mr Hebditch and Mr Newton were unable to attend. The Clerk read out some correspondence about the diverting of the Green Lane Bridleway and the Broadenham footpath. He then reported that the accounts had been audited and that he had informed them that Winsham had precepted for a larger sum for 1965/6 in order to pay for the rebuilding of the Churchyard wall. After a discussion the Council agreed to propose to the Parochial Church Council that the wall be rebuilt in the same materials but at a lower height in places. The Clerk reported that at a meeting with the District Surveyor he had put forward the Councils wishes to site the Toc H seats at the corner of Ebdon Lane by the wall adjoining Colonel Bowden’s house, on the Children’s Playground and at the Cemetery. The seat at the Cemetery would only be there in the summer. In the winter it would be at the Recreation Ground. A meeting of the Parish Burial Board was fixed for 29 September for the revision of burial charges. Various cheques were signed.
On 29th September the Parish Council and Burial Board met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. Before the meeting began the Chairman and members of Toc H presented three seats to the Council. The Chairman was Mr L Griffin and the members Messrs H and A Spurdle. Miss Harding thanked Toc H for this generous gift. A discussion about burial fees was postponed.
A letter was read from the County Council denying that an error had been made over the Broadenham footpath. It asked the Parish Council to get in touch with Mr Smith the farmer. The Parish Council decided to ask the County Council to deal with the matter and to keep them informed. A second letter from the County Council was read giving approval for the siting of the Toc H seats. It was agreed to ask Mr Peacock for an estimate for suitable plinths for them. The Clerk gave a resume of the housing needs of the village as discussed at the recent R.D.C. meeting. A letter from the District Valuer was read concerning the transfer of land. It was reported that the R.D.C. sub committee had recommended the building of ten Old Peoples Bungalows. The Council considered this number to be about right. However the Council said they wished to choose the exact location. In return for this site it would be necessary for Chard R.D.C. to offer three to three and a half acres of land for recreational purposes and that any excess should be offered to private enterprise in due course.
On 20 December the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. A letter from the District Valuer dated 6 December was read and then discussed at length. It laid out the terms for the exchange of land between Chard R.D.C. and Winsham Parish Council. There was general agreement on the document and the Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. saying this and detailing the two provisos:
Colonel Boyce reported that the Jubilee Hall had been registered as a Charity. He handed over the conveyance dated 8 December 1905 between Hon. Alexander Nelson Hood and Winsham Parish Council. The Chairman thanked Colonel Boyce for his hard work. She then thanked the members for the prizes which they had given for the Jubilee Hall Whist Drive. Various cheques were signed.
On 22nd January the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the possible exchange of the Recreation Ground for building with an area of about two and a half acres on West Field for recreational facilities for the village. After a long debate the following resolution was passed for sending to Chard R.D.C.:
(1) The Parish Council is prepared to accept in principle the proposed exchange, but it is unacceptable to the Parish Council that Mr Wheaton or any other individual be allowed to purchase the rest of the field as a condition of this transaction. (Mr Wheaton was renting West Field from Chard R.D.C. at the time).
If such a thing were allowed to happen it might prejudice “for ever” the possibility of the Parish Council acquiring an extension to the area outlined on the map provided, which will be needed if proper recreational facilities are ever to be achieved. The area in question at the moment is not big enough to be used as a football ground without the risk of damage to surrounding Council property and is completely inadequate for cricket etc.
(2) The Parish Council would welcome this exchange mainly from the point of view of providing a suitable site for the “Old Peoples Bungalows” close to the amenities of the village.
At this stage the Parish Council feels that it should not be asked to underwrite any of the expenses involved, because the Parish Council would be making available a more favourable site for development by the Rural District Council.
(3) The Parish Council would welcome any indication of whether it is possible to overcome the condition concerning, “sale of the land” to an individual which it found it could not accept.
The Annual Parish Meeting was fixed for 7 April.
On 19th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk provided the Council with a progress report on the West Field exchange. The members agreed that the Green Lane Bridle Way and Footpath should be retained and that Mr Warren should apply for a Diversion Order after removing the obstruction. It was reported that the cost of repairing the Churchyard wall was £160. It was agreed to discuss this at the Annual Parish Meeting on 7 April. Various cheques were signed.
On 2nd June the Council met in the School Room. Members present were Miss Harding, Mr White, Colonel Boyce, Miss Ralston and the Clerk, Mr Phillips. Apologies were received from Mr Barrow. The Clerk read the result of the Triennial Elections. These were:
Unsuccessful candidates were Messrs Barrow, Churchill, Creech, Higgins, Rawlings, Smith, Trott and Young.
The Clerk reported that the accounts had been audited and that The General Account has a balance of £194:18:6d and The Burial Account a balance of one penny. Attention was drawn to the Revision of Burial Fees and to the plan of The Burial Ground. The Annual Meeting followed straight after the Ordinary Meeting and began at about 8pm. Miss Harding was re-elected as Chairman with Mr White Vice Chairman. Revd Fairweather and Police Officer Rowe were to be asked to continue as School Managers. Miss Ralston was chosen to represent the Council on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. The Clerk reported that H M Auditors had advised the Parish to contact the Ministry about a loan to pay for the rebuilding of the Churchyard wall .It was said that this would definitely be a charge on the Parish as the Churchyard was a Closed Churchyard and the wall was the Churchyard boundary wall. The Clerk was asked to contact the Ministry. There was a debate about burial charges and the maintaining of the Churchyard and Cemetery. It was agreed to discuss revised fees at the next meeting and to obtain more money from the Precept to pay for the upkeep of the two areas. Various cheques were signed.
On 23rd September the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk displayed a scale drawing of the Cemetery by David Griffen showing details of all burials from 1891 to August 1964. It had been produced as a result of a joint effort by Mr Phillips and Mr David Griffen. It was agreed that Mr Griffen should be paid three guineas for his painstaking work. The Council decided to ask The Parochial Church Council where it should be kept. Letters were read to the Council by the Clerk about the proposed new bus service from Winsham to Chard. It was thought that the 8:20am and 9:40am were two essential services. A long discussion followed in which members expressed their dissatisfaction with the timetable proposed by the company. The Council was also displeased about the closure of Chard Junction Station, saying that it made it necessary for there to be a bus service to Crewkerne and Axminster three days a week to connect with main trains.
There was a very long discussion about the Recreation Ground. The Parish Council was concerned about getting a fair exchange of land from Chard R.D.C. It therefore agreed to ask The District Valuer for his valuation of the whole field and of an area of three and a half acres. Mr Newton drew the Councils attention to the problem of rats at Malt House Council House Site, floodwater running down Fore Street and a pile of stones at Mr Ibbotson's house. Action was agreed on all these points.
On 25th November the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk reported that Chard R.D.C. was discussing an improved bus service for Winsham with the bus company. A letter was read from Mr Ibbotson of Court Street refuting the allegation that his “Heap of Stones” is a dangerous nuisance. It was agreed to pass the matter to Chard R.D.C. The Clerk said that the County Council had been notified that the Parish Council wishes to retain the Green Lane Bridleway with a fresh entrance to Crewkerne Road. A sub committee was formed to meet the new District Surveyor to discuss with him “ the heap of stones”, floodwater in Fore Street and the muck and manure on the path to the Cemetery. Members of this committee were Mr White, Mr Hawker, Colonel Boyce and the Clerk. A letter was read from Chard R.D.C. to Mr R Wheaton terminating the Tenancy Agreement on West Field from March 1966. It was reported that Toc H had offered three seats to Winsham as a gift. This generous gesture was accepted and it was agreed to find suitable sites in due course. Various cheques were signed.
On 7th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall .Mr Akhurst was Chairman. The Council decided to take no further action about buying the house next to the Jubilee Hall due to the anticipated cost of purchase and restoration. It was agreed to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on 2 April. One cheque was signed.
On 27th May the Council met in the School Room. Members present were Miss Harding, Miss Ralston, Mr Higgins, Mr White, Mr Barrow and Mr Akhurst. Apologies were sent by Mrs Evans, Mr Paull and Colonel Boyce. Miss Harding was elected as Chairman with Mr White Vice Chairman. The Council discussed a letter from Mr Partridge of the Victory Garage about “Five Cross Roads Winsham”. It was agreed to ask the police to make a report on the matter. A complaint from Mr Rudkin about the Broadenham Lane footpath was passed to Chard R.D.C. for action. The letter had included a list of signatories. The Clerk said that he had sent a reply. Mr Phillips told the meeting of his concern about the cost of maintaining the Cemetery, Recreation Ground and Churchyard. The Council agreed to continue the present arrangements. They also agreed to pay for a new chimney liner for the Jubilee Hall at a cost of £30:4:6d. The Clerk reported that a free bonus issue of Alliance Property shares had been received. The Council agreed to retain these for future dividends which would benefit the Hall. There was a long discussion about future projects for Winsham. The conclusions were that Winsham needed housing for the elderly and for young couples with improved electrical, water and sewage installations. It was also thought important to retain the much used Rights of Way between Fore Street and Court Street. There was a vote of thanks and appreciation to Mr Akhurst, the retiring Chairman, for all the good work he had done for the village over many years. Cheques were signed for the following:
On 24th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. It was reported that a meeting had been held with the Divisional Surveyor to discuss the dangers to road users of Whatley Bottom and Five Cross Roads. Various improvements had been agreed. The Council then spent a long time discussing a letter from Chard R.D.C. seeking ideas for improvements in recreational facilities in Winsham. The Council adopted the following resolution “An Extra Ordinary Parish Meeting be called for the purpose of seeking a mandate from the village, whether or not to proceed with a scheme for development of additional recreational facilities”. A date of 4 September was agreed. A Planning Application from Mr Higgins was discussed. This was for the site behind the Bell Inn to be used by up to four holiday caravans. This was passed, subject to reconsideration after one year. Fresh arrangements were agreed to reimburse the Clerk for his expenses.
On 7th August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk was asked to deal with an insurance claim resulting from a bus damaging the War Memorial on 21 June. The claim was for about £10. The Council decided to accept an offer from The British Legion for some volunteers to clean the memorial. This was made through Colonel Boyce. The Clerk said that he had written to Mr L S Dommett following a complaint by villagers about a cow which had thrown a parishioner to the ground on the footpath between Fore Street and Court Lane. The Clerk said that he had received a verbal message from Mr Dommett saying that the cow was now tethered but the Council asked the Clerk to obtain a written response. Mr Phillips issued a draft letter to all the Councillors outlining plans for improvements to the recreational facilities in the village and inviting all those on the Electoral Roll to a meeting on 4 September. An Income Tax refund of £28:2:7d on the Alliance Property shares was passed to the Treasurer of the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. Several minor complaints were discussed mainly concerning problems with the parking of cars and late night noise. Various cheques were signed.
There was a brief meeting of the Parish Council on 4th September before the Parish Meeting called to discuss “The Physical Training and Recreational Facilities Of the Village”. It was chaired by Miss Harding. The Clerk reported that he was dealing with the various complaints made at the last meeting.
On 14th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Council discussed suitable sites for a new football ground following a resolution passed at the Parish Meeting on 4 September. Areas at Kentsleigh, Colham Lane and Westfield were debated. The matter was left to Colonel Boyce and Major Lovelock to contact Mr Roy Wheaton, the R.D.C. tenant of Westfield, and report back to the Council at a future meeting. A request from Mr Furzeman to stage a Bonfire Night Celebration on the Recreation Ground was refused because of a lack of insurance cover. Various cheques were signed.
On 12th December the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. Revd Fairweather was invited to attend to deal with the appointment of Trustees for the Winsham Charities. The Clerk read a letter from the British Legion criticising the repairs of damage to the War Memorial caused by a bus on 21 June. “A letter from Mr Slade written after seeing a report of this in the local press gave a full account of the repairs and the reason for a temporary stone being used. He also protested that the publication in the press was unjustified and very unfair to himself. After a general discussion, it was proposed by Mr Barrow and seconded by Miss Ralston that a letter should be sent to the British Legion stating that the Winsham Parish Council takes strong objection to the action of the British Legion Committee by which they made statements to the press before giving the Parish Council and contractor concerned, a fair opportunity to explain the facts pertaining to the repair.”
The Clerk outlined the rules governing the appointment of Trustees of the Winsham Charities. Revd Fairweather, Miss Harding and Mr Phillips were subsequently entrusted with this task. The Clerk told the Council that Major Lovelock had offered to buy land at Westfield from Chard R.D.C. with the idea of selling it to the Parish Council at cost price as a Sports Ground. This offer was being considered by Chard R.D.C. A tentative enquiry by Chard R.D.C. to use the present “Top Recreation Ground” for council building was discussed but no conclusions reached. It was then proposed by Colonel Boyce and seconded by Miss Ralston that the R.D.C. be advised that Winsham Parish Council would be willing to negotiate for the use of the “Top Recreation Ground” for housing projects subject to an acceptable alternative site for recreational purposes being made available. Various cheques were signed.
On 19th March the Council met in the School Room. Miss Harding was Chairman. The Clerk reported that Revd A.G. Fair-weather had accepted the post of one of the Parish Council Representatives on the Winsham Primary School Board of Governors. A cheque for £12:6:11d representing the dividend on the Alliance Property shares was handed to the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. It was reported that the Green Lane Right of Way had been blocked. Mr White was asked to make an inspection and to report on his findings at the next meeting. It was agreed to pay the Clerk £5 for his expenses for the Financial Year 1961/62. Various cheques were signed.
On 24th May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman. Apologies for their absence were received from Mr Akhurst and Mrs Evans. Other Councillors present were Colonel Boyce, Miss Ralston, Mr Higgins, Mr White and Mr Barrow. A request from Chard R.D.C. for details of any gypsy encampments resulted in a nil return. The Clerk reported that a letter from Chard R.D.C. had been sent to Mr Warren of Coombe Farm telling him to remove the obstruction on Green Lane or apply for a diversion of the Public Right of Way. A request by the Art Club and the Women’s Institute for a picture rail in the Jubilee Hall was agreed on certain conditions. These were that the applicants should pay for the project and that they should make good any damage. The Clerk reported that he had applied to Chard R.D.C. to re-house the Glenworth family of eight children who were living in a house in Back Street with a “ Closed Order” on it. After a long debate the Council agreed to support the action taken by the Clerk. A request from the Youth Leader, Mr Mellor, to use the Recreation Ground on Wednesday evenings, or on any other night by prior agreement with the Clerk, was agreed. The Council decided to increase the insurance on the Jubilee Hall from £6000 to £8000 at the next renewal. The Clerk said that there was a great deal of confusion over the numbering of houses in the village. Mr Phillips was authorised to buy a second hand Hayter Mower for £20 for use in the Churchyard. Various cheques were signed.
On 3rd September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Akhurst was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the accounts had been audited and that there had been little interest in the maps of local Rights of Way which had been available for inspection in his house. The Council decided to take no action over a letter from Chard R.D.C. about Civil Defence Billeting. It was agreed that the amount of work involved was beyond the scope of the Council and the Clerk. The Clerk reported that he was still trying to get the Glenworth family rehoused satisfactorily. Cheques were signed for Mr Evans for £25:5:11d (Churchyard, Cemetery and Recreation Ground Maintenance) and Charles Knight & Co £0:17:6d (Burial Stationary).
On 7th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Akhurst was Chairman. The Clerk read a letter from Chard R.D.C. stating that, based on population, the Winsham Parish Quota for The Freedom from Hunger Campaign amounted to £63. After a discussion it was agreed that all the village organisations should contribute. The Girl Guides and Red Cross had already given £3 and £5 respectively. The Clerk read a letter he had written to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government requesting full information on the possibility of buying the house adjoining the Jubilee Hall. He then informed the members that the Alliance shares dividend of £18:10:5d would be issued on 15 November. He went on to speak of the problems with the distribution of the small amount of Winsham Charity money by the Vicar and Trustees. He said that he planned to take up the matter with the appropriate authorities. There was a discussion about a national emergency (Cuban Missile Crisis?) and it was thought that the number of evacuees would be equal to the local population. Various cheques were signed.
On 31st January the Council met in the School Room. Revd Childs was Chairman. A precept of £70 was agreed for the financial year 1961/2. Correspondence was read out about the grant from the Carnegie Trust for the new heating system for the Jubilee Hall. The Council decided to accept the condition of forming a Management Committee. Miss Ralston’s idea of getting estimates for an infra red heating system for the Hall was supported. Authority was granted to the Clerk to have the Monkey Puzzle tree in the Cemetery pruned. A letter was read from the Youth Club saying that the secretary of the club was now Miss Ann Peadon of Ivy Cottage. Various cheques were signed.
On 16th March the Council met in the School Room. Revd Childs was Chairman. There was a long discussion about the comparative running costs of a new heating system for the Hall (infra red versus oil) but no conclusions were reached. The Clerk was asked to invite the various organisations in the village to nominate a member to serve on the new Jubilee Hall Management Committee. The Clerk was also asked to declare his expenses for payment authorisation by the auditor. Various cheques were signed.
On 1st June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. After confirming the minutes of the last meeting the Council heard the Clerk announce the result of the election of Parish Councillors held on 13 May. The following were elected:
The two unsuccessful candidates were Phyllis Hope Fawcett (42 votes) and Pamela Ruston Rawlings (73 votes).
Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Akhurst Vice Chairman. Mr Phillips was asked to continue as Clerk. The Council decided to form a sub committee to review burial fees and to consider an extension to the Cemetery. Revd Childs and Police Officer Rowe were elected to be School Managers. The Clerk reported that he had received from the various village organisations their nominations to serve on the Jubilee Hall Management Committee. Details were:
The Clerk was asked to seek Somerset Rural Community Councils approval of this committee. Various cheques were signed.
On 28th August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported the findings of the recent audit and that the account balances were, General Account £273:10:8d, The Burial Account £22:13:8d. The Jubilee Hall income was £135, its expenses £121:17:5d. Mr Barrow reported on a meeting between the new Hall Committee and Mr Goodliffe. One of the results was that it was necessary for them to become a Charitable Trust under the conditions laid down by the Carnegie Trust. This will enable the Hall to be exempt from income tax and to qualify for a large reduction in rates. The Clerk reported that materials for the new oil fired heating system for the Hall had been delivered. The cost of £269 was to be met by a grant from The Carnegie Trust. Various cheques were signed.
On 2nd October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. A letter was read from Revd Childs resigning his membership of the Council owing to his having left the district. He recalled the happy relationship he had enjoyed with Council members whilst Chairman. Mr Akhurst acted as Chairman for this meeting. The Clerk reported that the new heating system in the Hall had been installed and tested. The total cost had been £460, including a hot water tank and immersion heater. The Council had paid for it by arranging an overdraft with the Westminster Bank until 31 December 1961. Mr Evans joined the meeting to announce his retirement as Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall. He and Mrs Evans were thanked for all their hard work. The Clerk reported that he had received an instalment from the Carnegie Trust of the £200 Grant and that this had been paid in to the bank to reduce the overdraft. To fill the vacancy on the Council caused by the resignation of Revd Childs, it was agreed to invite Colonel Boyce to serve as a Councillor. Various cheques were signed including one to Norrington Oils Ltd for £21:19:5d for 300 gallons of heating oil for the Jubilee Hall.
On 20th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Consideration of the minutes of the last meeting was held up, as the Clerk had not included the appointment as Vice Chairman of Miss Harding and the voting on the co-opting of a new member. This vote was Colonel Boyce seven votes and Mr M Hebditch two votes. A letter from Mrs Warren, late of Heron House and past President of the Young Men’s Club, suggested that the funds of the now defunct club should go to the Jubilee Hall. This was agreed in principle and the letter was passed to the Secretary of the Hall Management Committee for their action. It was noted that Mr Leslie had taken over the George Inn from Mr Barnes. The Clerk reported that he had received an income tax rebate of £39:1:4d on the Alliance Property shares dividend. The Council agreed that any necessary repairs to the War Memorial should be done.
On 24th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding chaired the meeting. The Clerk reported that he had applied for a remission of rates on the Jubilee Hall and that the result should be known by the next Council meeting. After some discussion it was agreed to charge the Art Club an “inclusive charge” of ten shillings per evening. The Clerk reported that the new council houses in West Field should be finished within the next two months. A long discussion followed about the cause of the dampness in the walls of the Jubilee Hall. No conclusions were reached. Various cheques were signed.
On 22nd June the Statutory Council Meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Miss Harding Vice Chairman. The Clerk reported that the Children’s Recreation Ground and part of the Main Recreation Ground grass had been cut by Chard R.D.C. There was a discussion about the dangers of the Church Street crossroads and it was decided to consult the Highway Surveyor. Permission was granted for the British Legion to hold a Fete on the Recreation Ground on 23 July. Cheques were signed for the following:
On 19th August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. The Clerk reported that the audit had been satisfactory. The subject of the Clerks salary and expenses arose. The Clerk left the meeting while this was discussed, saying that he would quite happily hand over all books and documents to whomever they appointed as Clerk to the Council and Burial Board. On his return the Chairman announced that it was the earnest wish of all the members for Mr Phillips to accept the post of Clerk for a salary of £20 per year with expenses. (This would mean Mr Phillips becoming the permanent Clerk to the Council rather than the temporary Clerk as he had been since 1946!). Mr Phillips accepted the offer. It was proposed by Miss Ralston and seconded by Mr Akhurst that Mr Phillips be given an honorarium of £10 for the year 1959/60 for all he has done on behalf of the Council and Burial Board. Carried unanimously. The Clerk said that the current heating system in the Jubilee Hall needs updating. He produced an estimate from Messrs Tolmans of Beaminster for £456:16:3d for the necessary work. After a long discussion, it was decided to:
The Clerk told the meeting that he had checked whether any shares in the Hall Trust could be sold in order to pay for the new heating system. The advice from Mr Hartley, solicitor to Chard R.D.C., was that they could not. The Clerk also reported that he had written to Chard R.D.C. for a grant and was planning to attend the relevant meeting. A letter from Mr Spencer Barnes, Landlord of The George Inn, was read in which he sought the approval of the Council for his customers to park their cars outside his pub. The Council decided that the matter was really for the police and Highways Authority to deal with but the Council had no objections provided pedestrians were able to cross from Back Street to West Street safely. They also wanted to make it clear to all villagers that there were no plans to move the Village Cross, contrary to local rumours. The Clerk was asked to reply to Mr Barnes accordingly. Various cheques were signed.
On 27th September the Council met in the School Room. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Council decided to allow the newly formed Youth Club to use the Jubilee Hall each Wednesday evening for ten shillings per night, this charge to include a fire. A deputation from the Youth Club then joined the meeting. Officials present were Mrs Warren, Miss Down, Miss Peadon, Mr Phelps and Mr Higgins Junior. (The original minutes book contains a list of all those involved in the Youth club. This is in the form of a letter dated 8 October 1960 from M E Turner. Details are, Mr MJ Hebditch (Chairman), Mrs Warren, Mr H Spurdle, Mr Rowe, Mrs Evans (Broadenham), Mr J Higgins, Mr N Phelps (Youth Leader), Miss Heather Down (Treasurer), Miss Ann Peadon (Asst Treasurer), Mr Robert Warren (Asst Secretary). It was hoped that Major Lovelock would become President). A useful discussion followed and the Chairman wished the Club success.
The Clerk reported that the holes in the Jubilee Hall floor were to be repaired very shortly. Mr Phillips then told the members that he held little hope of getting much, if any, money from Chard R.D.C. towards the cost of the new heating system for the Jubilee Hall. A discussion followed on ways of raising the required sum. A levy of five shillings from everyone on the Parliamentary List was suggested. Finally it was agreed to call a General Parish Meeting on 31 October to determine local opinion. Various cheques were signed.
On 8th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss with Mrs Tucker, Deputy for Mr Goodliffe of the Somerset Rural Community Council, whether the Jubilee Hall Replacement Heating System would qualify for a grant from The Carnegie United Kingdom Trust. There was much talk and many questions. The outcome was that Mrs Tucker took away with her the Conveyance and Release Deeds of the Hall for legal advice. She left an application form for the Council to complete if it were decided to go ahead. “ The position was then fully discussed by the Parish Councillors and the general feeling was that the Councillors were rather dubious of handing over management of the Hall to a separate committee and so probably lose control of their property, however it was decided to apply for a grant from the Trust”.
On 19th January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk gave an update on the Councils finances saying that while costs have been rising income has remained the same. Miss Ralston volunteered to try to recruit some villagers to re-decorate the Hall in order to save money. This offer was gratefully accepted. The Clerk reported that six new council houses would be built in West Field in the coming year and that the District Council would adopt the road to Bakers Field when building was complete. He also reported that a licence had been obtained for the playing of copyright music, the cost being fifteen shillings a year. It was reported that the Recreation Ground had been left in an untidy state after a recent bonfire. The Council decided that in future there would be a charge of three guineas for profit making concerns and one guinea for its use as a car park. As Mrs Bowden had resigned from the Board of School Managers, the Council decided to ask Mrs Rawlings to fill the vacancy. Mr Akhurst thanked members of the Council for the prizes donated to his Xmas Whist Drive for the Improvement Fund. He handed in £20 as the profit from the evening and was congratulated and thanked for his efforts. Various cheques were signed.
On 10th March the Council met in the School Room. Members present were Major Cull, Mr Paull, Miss Ralston, Miss Harding, Mr Phillips and later Revd Childs. Apologies were received from Mr White and Mr Akhurst. Miss Harding chaired the meeting. The Clerk reported that Mr White had seen Mr Thompson who had agreed to cut the Cemetery grass and to tidy it up for £12. The Council agreed to this quote and the Clerk was asked to arrange for the work to be done by Whitsuntide. (The Council had been unable to reach agreement with Mr Price over cost). Nurse Ralston said that she had got a team of volunteers willing to re-decorate the Jubilee Hall led by Mr C Loaring. The second week of May was the planned start date. The Clerk reported the financial state and said that he thought a Precept of £70 would be sufficient. There was a long discussion about the problems of floodwater in Ebbon Lane and of some flowing down Fore Street. The Clerk said that he had spoken to the District Surveyor who had promised to do something about Ebbon Lane and to monitor other areas. The Council voted unanimously to increase burial fees by 50%. Various cheques were signed.
On 24th June the Annual Council Meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall. Members present were Mrs Evans, Miss Ralston, Miss Harding, Major Cull, Revd Childs, Mr Akhurst, Mr White, Mr Paull and Mr Phillips. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Miss Harding Vice Chairman. Mr Phillips said that he would be willing to continue as Clerk for a further year. He reported that work had been done on the problem of floodwater in Ebbon Lane. A letter from Mr Thompson was read in which he said that he would be unable to cut the Cemetery grass due to a lack of time. The Council decided to follow up an advertisement in the local paper and failing that to accept Mr Evans offer to cut it with a scythe. After a long discussion the Council decided to meet Mr Loaring in the Jubilee Hall on 29 June to plan its re-decoration. Various cheques were signed.
On 29th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. Mr Loaring was present. After a lengthy debate it was agreed to ask all the volunteers to meet at the Jubilee Hall on 8 July. The Chairman reported that he and the Clerk had met a Mr Dowell about cutting the Cemetery grass. His terms were that he would cut the grass for £15 on condition that he was given the contract for levelling the unattended graves. The Council decided to refuse this offer. The Council then asked Mr Evans to join the meeting and an hourly rate of four shillings was agreed with him.
On 29th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the audit had been satisfactory apart from the accounting for £20 expenses by the Clerk!! This had been resolved by Mr Phillips when he explained that the twenty pounds was the first money he had been paid for expenses since he became Clerk in 1946! However, it had been agreed that an expenses account was required in the future. The financial position at 31 March 1959 was, in the General Account, a balance of £163:6:8d and, in the Burial Account, a balance of £22:6:2d. There was a discussion about the renovation of the Jubilee Hall as the volunteers had apparently stopped working on it. It was agreed that the Hall should be closed from 26 October until 20 November to enable the necessary work to be finished. This was to include the replacement of the glass in the main window by Messrs Martins of Chard. (Mr Slade had renewed the frame earlier). The need for a Village Civil Defence Warden was explained by Major Cull and it was agreed to inform the local press. Various cheques were signed.
On 3rd December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. It was reported that the large room in the Jubilee Hall had been re-decorated since the last meeting by volunteers under the supervision of Mr Charles Loaring. They were Messrs J Monkton, G Sear, L Singleton, R Frecknall, F Newton, G Brown, L Griffin, A Loaring and J Loaring. Mr Arthur Hayes repaired and tested the lights. Revd Childs proposed that a vote of congratulations and sincere thanks be conveyed to all the volunteers. This was seconded by Miss Ralston and carried unanimously. It was reported that Mr L Singleton had offered to re-decorate the Hall kitchen on a voluntary basis and this kind offer was accepted. The cost of the paint and other materials for re-decorating the Hall was £40 and this was paid for by some of the money raised by Mr Akhurst's Snowball Whist Drives. The Council was told that Mr Evans, Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall, wished to forego one month’s salary as there had been no bookings. The Council decided not to accept this kind gesture as it was thought that both Mr and Mrs Evans had had a lot of clearing up to do both during and after the re-decoration of the Hall. Various cheques were signed.
On 2nd June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall following elections on 10 May. Council members were:
Harry James Akhurst - Church Street
Theodore John Childs - The Vicarage
James Knos Cull - Broadenham Farm
Hilda Mary Evans - Fore Street
Beatrice May Harding - School House
Walter Herbert Paull - Colham House
Joe Hodder Phillips - High Street
Janet Dunn Ralston - Bakersfield
Alfred Richard White - The Stores
Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Miss Harding Vice Chairman. Revd Childs and Mrs Bowden were elected to represent the Parish Council on the Board of Managers for the Primary School. The Council decided to accept Mr Prices offer of a one cut of the grass in order to save money. A letter of resignation from Mr Evans, Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall, was read. The Council agreed to offer him an increase in salary to twelve shillings a week in the hope of keeping him. Mr Phillips told the meeting that he was prepared to continue as Clerk until the accounts were audited which was normally November. Various cheques were signed.
On 4th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported that:
The subject of the expenses of the Clerk was discussed again and it was agreed that he should be paid £20 as a gesture towards past costs but that in future all his expenses should be met by the Council. "The Clerk was pleased to accept this sum and was grateful to the Council for the appreciation of his work."
The Clerk put forward an idea for obtaining a large area for a Recreation Ground, one suitable for playing all types of sports. After a long discussion, the Council agreed to meet on West Field Site at 12:15pm on Sunday 14th September to consider this important matter further.
He then told the members that a decision had to be made this evening about the transfer of the shares to the Alliance Property Co Ltd “ as a reply had to be given”. He read out letters from the Treasurer of the Parish Council and from The Secretary of the Royal Agricultural Hall Ltd advising the Council to accept the offer. After a long discussion it was agreed to accept, the exchange being 2240 Ordinary Shares of one shilling in The Alliance Property Company in place of 140x£1 shares in the Royal Agricultural Hall. The Clerk spoke of the criticisms being voiced in the village about the recent allocation of the ex Schoolmasters house. He said that he resented this very much and that the final decision rested with the Chairman of Chard R.D.C. As it was getting late, the meeting was adjourned until Monday 15th September.
On that day the Council met with members of the Village Organisations. Representatives were Mr and Mrs R White, Mr R Singleton, Mr Morton, Mr Higgins, Mr L Singleton, Miss Creech (Girl Guides), Mr and Mrs Frecknall, Revd Waters, Mrs Butler and Mrs Newton (BRCS), Mr C Hawker (British Legion), Mr H Spurdle, Mr A Spurdle (Toch H), Mr J Loaring (Band), Mrs Archurst, Miss Young and Miss Budge (WI) and Mr L Griffin. Mrs Tucker, representing Somerset Rural Community Council, was present to consider any applications for grants. She explained the range of grants available saying that general repairs were the responsibility of the Hall Trust Committee. However she said that the replacement of the old heating system might qualify and she promised to investigate this possibility. The Council then continued with the unfinished business from the meeting on 4 September, Mrs Tucker and the village representatives having left. The Clerk reported that:
It was reported that five councillor's had met at West Field on Sunday 14th September and had agreed in principle to exchange a suitable area of this field with the large Recreation Ground for housing. The Clerk had been asked to relay this information to Chard R.D.C. The Council agreed to use Mr Price to cut the Cemetery Hedge for £10 on the condition that he removes the grass when he cuts it rather than leaving it on the ground. A letter was read out from Mrs Warren, President of “The Young Men’s Club” asking the Clerk to call a meeting to dispose of the funds suggesting that they be given to the Jubilee Hall for necessary repairs. Various cheques were signed.
On 7th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. There was a long discussion about the maintenance and improvements to the Jubilee Hall. Estimates were discussed and it was finally decided that “ a concerted effort to raise funds was needed” and that this matter would be discussed at a later date and at a Parish Meeting. The next subject debated was the creation of a new Sports Ground. The Clerk reported that he had had a meeting with the Chairman and Mr Dommett, formerly the Clerk to Chard R.D.C., and that they had visited several possible building sites in the village and places suitable to meet the needs of the Football Club. Mr Dommett had agreed to pass on his observations to the Housing Committee. The Clerk reported that he had attended the Public Enquiry into the closure of the footpath at Cricket St Thomas. The Ramblers Association was not represented. The outcome of the enquiry was not yet known. The Council decided to form a small sub committee to investigate the need to raise Burial Fees. The attention of the Council was drawn to the showing of a Civil Defence film. The Clerk told the Council that he had written a letter of appreciation to Chard R.D.C. on the retirement of Mr Dommett. Mr Dommett had been Clerk to Chard R.D.C. for many years and had been very helpful to Winsham. Various cheques were signed.
On 21st February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk opened the meeting with a review of the Councils finances saying that due to rising fuel costs a Precept of £70 would be needed. He also said that the cost of repairing the Churchyard wall, some £80 to £100, should be met from the Burial Board Account. These proposals were agreed. The Council also agreed to ask Mr Ebdon to repair the Churchyard wall on Poole’s Lane and Church Street areas to the Vicarage boundary. Mrs Evans asked if Mr Price was to continue cutting the grass in the Churchyard, Cemetery and Recreation Field and Major Cull reminded the members again of the importance of Civil Defence saying that “ we could not rely on outside help if H Bombs etc were dropped and that more volunteers were required in this area”. The Council agreed that the Scouts should not be charged for the use of the Jubilee Hall. Various cheques were signed including one to KDJ Slade for £3:5:6d for repairs to the Village Cross and the removal of the Village Pump.
On 6th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Mr Akhurst, Miss Harding, Mrs Evans, Miss Ralston, Mr White, Revd Childs and Mr Phillips. Apologies were received from Major Cull and Mr Paull. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman and Miss Harding Vice Chairman. Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk. Major Cull said he would compensate a lady following a complaint about barbed wire on a path at Broadenham and on stiles on the path to Ammerham. There was a long discussion about the maintaining of the Cemetery, Churchyard and Recreation Ground. It was agreed that Mr Price should be employed to do the work but that the Clerk should discuss with the auditors ways of meeting the high cost involved. The Clerk was asked to contact Chard R.D.C. following complaints about the bus service. Mr Akhurst reported that he had £22:15:0d in hand from the Snowball Whist Drives for which he was congratulated.
On 9th December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Miss Harding was Chairman in the absence of Revd Childs. The Clerk reported that the recent audit had been satisfactory. An application from Miss S Jeffery to hire the Jubilee Hall for a Badminton Club was agreed at a cost of £0:7:6d per night with an extra £0:2:6d if a fire was lit. The management of the Jubilee Hall and the use of the funds of moribund clubs were discussed. It was decided that both should be aired at the Annual Parish Meeting. An application by the Football Club to convert the area next to their changing room in the Jubilee Hall into a bathroom was refused. The reason was the lack of other storage space. The re-numbering of the houses and naming of the streets in the village was raised by Mr White. It was agreed that the R.D.C. representatives should bring this matter before the appropriate R.D.C. meeting. Mr Akhurst presented his accounts of the weekly Whist Drives, which he had been running for the Jubilee Hall funds. A "very hearty vote of thanks to Mr Akhurst and his helpers particularly Mr R Singleton and Mrs A Grabham for the work done" was unanimous. Various cheques were signed.
The first meeting was on 27th February 1956.It was held in the Jubilee Hall and was chaired by Revd Childs. The purpose of the meeting was to decide whether to have the turret and weather vane on the Jubilee Hall roof repaired or not. The Clerk reported that the cost of repairing both would be £120 and that it would cost £65:10:0d to repair the roof without reinstating the turret and weather vane. He also reported that the Parish Council Account was £250 in credit. The Council decided not to reinstate the turret and weather vane. The Clerk informed the members that he had applied for a Rate Exemption for the Jubilee Hall and was awaiting a decision from Chard R.D.C. On 23 April the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was re-elected Chairman with Miss Harding Vice Chairman. The Clerk reported that the repairs to the Jubilee Hall roof had been completed but the cost had totalled £145:10:0d. This was far more than expected but was due to the roof being in much worse condition than expected. He was of the opinion that Mr Slade had done a very good job and this was supported by the Council. The Clerk said that he had asked Mr Price from Drimpton to cut the grass in the Cemetery three times a year for £30. This idea was supported by the Council. It was proposed by Mrs Evans and seconded by Miss Harding that the Clerk be reimbursed in full for all expenses associated with Parish Council business. This was carried unanimously. Various cheques were signed.
On 19th July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Mrs Evans, Miss Ralston, Miss Harding, Mr Akhurst, Mr White, Revd Childs, Mr Paull and Mr Phillips. Revd Childs acted as Chairman. A letter from Chard R.D.C. “extinguishing the footpath at Cricket St Thomas which connects Chalkway via Puthill and Hen Hill with the main Wind Whistle Road to Chard and Crewkerne was read and discussed and it was decided that no action be taken by the Parish Council in this matter”. A letter from Mr H H Wheaton, Secretary of the Playing Fields Committee, was read. In it he suggested that a pool of money should be formed from a number of moribund organisations to enable a Playing Field to be purchased. This idea was discussed and it was agreed to seek villagers’ views at the 1957 Annual Parish Meeting. The Council decided to charge those hiring the Jubilee Hall an extra thirty shillings if they were running a licensed bar. Comments from the Ramblers Association on a number of footpaths were discussed. It was noted that repairs to the Recreation Ground fence were being done by Mr Evans. Payments were authorised for the following:
On 1st November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Major Cull was Chairman in the absence of Revd Childs. The Council noted that the accounts had been audited but that the Clerk had not been paid his expenses. It was agreed that this should be resolved at a future meeting. It was reported that the Football Club had approached Chard R.D.C. to acquire part of West Field as a pitch but they had learnt that the present tenant, Mr Wheaton, was unwilling to give possession. The Chairman agreed to contact Mr Ebdon of Thorncombe to repair the Churchyard wall, which was reported to be in a dangerous state of repair. He then reminded members of the importance of Civil Defence and of the ongoing need for volunteers. Various cheques were signed.
On 30th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Members present were Mrs Evans, Major Cull, Miss Harding, Mr Pym and Mr Phillips. Apologies were received from Mrs Bowden, Revd Childs and Miss Ralston. Mr Pym, Vice Chairman of the Council, chaired the meeting. The Clerk reported that Messrs Spillers had redecorated the dado rail in the Jubilee Hall! He continued by saying that Mr Evans, Caretaker of the Cemetery, could no longer dig graves due to failing health. It was agreed to discuss this at the Annual Parish Meeting. The Chairman was authorised by the members to negotiate a new fire insurance policy for the Jubilee Hall with The Royal Insurance Company if he considered it to be beneficial. Various cheques were signed.
On 7th June the Council met at the Vicarage. The Clerk reported the results of the uncontested election of Parish Councillors held on 14 May. Those elected were Harry James Akhurst, Theodore John Childs, James Cull, Hilda Mary Evans, Beatrice May Harding, Walter Herbert Paull, Joe Hodder Phillips, Janet Dunn Ralston, and Alfred Richard White. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Miss Harding Vice Chairman. Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk. The Council heard that in future undertakers would assume responsibility for the digging of graves in place of the Caretaker. After hearing relevant details, the Council agreed to insure the Jubilee Hall with The Royal Insurance Company for both Fire and Storm and Tempest. The sum insured was £6900 for a premium of £4:0:6d per annum. There was a long discussion about the maintenance of the Recreation Ground at the end of which it was agreed to ask Mr Slade to repair the swings and for Mr Evans to cut the grass as required. It was also agreed to get an estimate from Mr Churchill to replace the chestnut fencing with iron posts along the boundary with the Council houses. The members heard of the problems caused by children in the streets and of the efforts of the local police constable to control them. Mr Akhurst reported that the Picture House audience was getting wet because of a leak in the roof of the Hall! The Clerk said that the matter was in the hands of Mr Dunster the builder and that he had promised to see what the trouble was and to report back. The Council decided to name the proposed new road in the Western Way site “Orchard Crescent”. Various cheques were signed.
On 19th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the grass on the Recreation Ground had been cut and the chestnut fence repaired. He also reported that he had contacted Mr Dunster about the repairs to the Jubilee Hall roof and that he could get no satisfaction, only promises. The Council agreed to a request from the Football Club to use the shed at the rear of the Jubilee Hall as a Dressing Room and for the Club to erect a Notice Board on the Jubilee Hall wall. They also granted permission for the Quaker Oats Company to hire the Hall for twenty-five shillings to show a film entitled “Full- o- Pep”. The Chairman read a letter from the Sports Club Committee saying that they had resigned en bloc and asking for a Public Meeting to be called to decide what should be done with the Coronation Money. The members decided that a Parish Meeting should be held on 27 October. Major Cull produced a list of property in the Parish which was considered of historical interest .The list was agreed with the addition of “ Wynards and Lower Bere Chapel”. Revd Childs and Mrs Bowden were re-appointed Managers of Winsham School representing the Parish Council. The Clerk was asked to speak to the Highways Surveyor about the improving the road markings at the crossroads. Various cheques were signed.
On 24th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Council agreed a new set of charges for hiring the Jubilee Hall after inviting the Caretaker, Mr Evans, to attend. Examples of the new charges are:
The Clerk reported that temporary repairs to the Hall roof had been done by Mr Ken Slade .He, Mr Slade, had reported that it would be necessary for the tower to be dismantled and thoroughly inspected before a sound plan of work could be made. The Council accepted this idea. It was reported that, owing to remarks made by several Parishioners at the recent Parish Meeting, Mr Evans had resigned as Caretaker of the Cemetery and Recreation Ground. Mr Paull expressed the appreciation of all Parish Councillors of the work Mr Evans had done and the Clerk expressed his great satisfaction with the work done by Mr Evans. It was proposed that this appreciation be recorded in the minutes. This was carried unanimously. A letter from Mr Wheaton was read seeking permission to erect a concrete seat overlooking the Axe in memory of his father Mr Herbert Wheaton and for the use of elderly people. The idea was supported and the Clerk was asked to write to Mr Wheaton and to Chard R.D.C. He was also asked to arrange for the Village Pump to be removed as it was redundant and posed a danger to children. An offer from Mr White to obtain a new coke stove for the Hall at trade price was accepted with gratitude. Various cheques were signed.
On 18th January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the Council Account was £170 in credit and this was considered satisfactory. The members discussed an application from a Mr Miles to show films in the Jubilee Hall on Monday evenings in place of Mr Simmonds. This was granted, subject to certain conditions. The Clerk asked if the charges for “The Exclusive Right of Burial and Erection of a Memorial” to the late Dorothy Knight might be as for a Parishioner as this person met her death by accident and she was born in the village and left a young family behind. This was granted and was unanimous. The condition of the Churchyard wall was discussed and it was agreed to seek professional advice from Chard R.D.C. with a view to perhaps lowering the wall to reduce repair costs. A letter was read from the British Legion asking for a ruling on the fees charged for the Hall and by the Caretaker. After a very long discussion it was decided to ask Mr Paull to carefully think the matter over and it would be dealt with at the next meeting of the Council when it was hoped that all members would be present. Various cheques were signed.
On 22nd March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. It was decided to repair two swings in the Recreation Ground and to have the others dismantled while the grant application was being considered. The Council agreed to the principle of buying half an acre of ground for an extension to the Cemetery and a site meeting was arranged. The Clerk reported that the road signs at the West Street approach to the village would be erected soon. Mr Paull told the Council that, as he would be moving to Chard shortly, he would be stepping down as Jubilee Hall Caretaker and that therefore a replacement would be needed. It was agreed that the salary should be twelve shillings a week in the winter and eight shillings in the summer. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 19th July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Pym as Vice Chairman. Other members present were Mrs Evans, Miss Ralston, Miss Harding, Mrs Bowden, Mr Paull and the Clerk, Mr Phillips. Apologies were received from Major Cull. The Clerk reported that there were three applicants for the post of Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall. They were Mr Bulmer, Mrs Martin and Mr Evans. On a majority vote Mr Evans was chosen for the job. The Council discussed the problem of lorries and buses parking near the new Council houses in West Street and at the turning to Winsham off the main Crewkerne road. The Clerk was asked to investigate this problem. The following cheques were signed:
The Council met on 14th September in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. A letter from the Cinema Manager asking for a reduction the cost of hiring the Jubilee Hall due to poor attendances was read. After a discussion it was agreed to reduce the cost to ten shillings per evening. It was reported that the Tithe Commissioners had asked for the final payment for the redemption of the Tithe Liability of the Parish Council for £12:3:4d. The Clerk was authorised to make the payment. Complaints about large signs blocking the Church Street pavements, the irregularity of the 0950 bus and rowdy behaviour by teenagers were discussed. The Clerk was asked to take action on all three problems! Several cheques were signed including one to KDJ Slade for £19 for repairs to the Jubilee Hall.
On 26th October the Council met in the School Room. Revd Childs was Chairman. There was a discussion about the re-decoration of the dado rail in the Jubilee Hall. This was due to have been done by Messrs Spiller & Co of Chard according to their letters dated 28 April 1950, 23 May 1950 and 7 May 1953! The Clerk was asked to contact them with a view to getting the work done. Revised hiring charges for the Jubilee Hall were agreed. Following a proposal by Mrs Evans, the Council decided to re-join the Parish Councils Association. The subject of street lighting was raised by Miss Ralston and after a discussion the Clerk was asked to find out more information on installation costs. Various cheques were signed.
On 6th December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported on the results of the audit for the year 1954/1955. He then announced that the cost for twenty street lamps would be £620 and the annual running cost £36. As this was such a large sum, it was decided to raise this matter at the Parish Meeting. A letter of resignation from the Council from Mr Paull was read out. This was due to him leaving the village. It was accepted with regret. Various cheques were signed.
The first Council Meeting of the New Year was on 5th February in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the Divisional Surveyor had written to say that two “ Children” signs would be erected either side of the playing field on the B3162 but that no sign was planned in West Street. The Clerk was asked to query this decision, as West Street is busy at times due to the Sawmills and Milk Factory. An increase in salary for the Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall was agreed, the new rates to be ten shillings a week in the winter and six shillings in the summer. The Council decided that house to house collections for the Flood Relief Fund should coincide with the collection for the Coronation Fund on 14 February. The members agreed to have a meeting with the Divisional Surveyor to discuss the “Curbing in Church Street”. This followed a number of complaints to the Clerk and to some Councillors. Various cheques were signed.
The Council met in the Schoolroom on 27th March. Mr Pym was Chairman. The Clerk presented a Financial Report for the Year 1952/1953 indicating a balance of about £150. This was considered to be satisfactory. It was reported that recruiting for the Civil Defence was poor and that more volunteers were needed. The Council considered a planning application for a caravan site at Stuckeys Farm following a letter of objection signed by five neighbours. The members decided to forward it to Chard R.D.C. with their comments. As a Coronation Contribution the Girl Guides were granted permission to place flowers on the War Memorial until the end of the Year. Various cheques were signed, including one to KDJ Slade for the Jubilee Hall for £54:8:4d.
The Council met on 21st July in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was re-elected Chairman with Mr Pym Vice Chairman. Other members of the Council were Mrs Bowden, Mrs Evans, Miss Ralston, Mr Paull, Mr Cull and the Temporary Clerk, Mr Phillips. The Council decided to grant Mr Simmonds a reduction in hire charges for his Picture Shows in the Jubilee Hall for a period of six months due to falling audiences. The Clerk reported that he had secured a Tax Rebate of £15:12:6d on the Royal Agricultural Halls Shares Dividends after a very long time. The members agreed to apply for a bus service to Crewkerne on Fridays leaving at 10am and returning at 5pm. This service would enable children to attend the Health Clinic and people to catch another bus in to Yeovil.
On 17th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The purpose of the meeting was to carefully consider the idea of buying a Recreation Field from the Rural District Council. The field concerned was West Field, an arable field costing about £126 per acre. The Council discussed ways of raising the necessary money. Mention was made of a number of “Dormant Funds” and Mr Paull was asked to check on the £80 belonging to “The Boys Club”. The Council agreed that the money should be raised in the village if possible by a united effort. A Parish Meeting was arranged for 1 October to hear the views of the local residents.
On 16th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk presented his Financial Report. The members voted for an allowance of £8 to the Clerk towards his costs, which he had been paying from his own pocket. The Clerk was asked to apply for a Pillar Box and telephone for Laymore following an application from Captain Bell. The Clerk reported that the Jubilee Hall Improvement Fund had a balance of £53 and it was agreed to spend some of this money on improving the area around the Hall. It was decided to obtain an estimate to concrete the space between the Hall and the Bakery and to delegate authority to the Clerk to act as he saw fit in cooperation with Mrs Higgins, the owner of the Bakery. The Council decided to offer the Jubilee Hall garden “Let Free” for the next two years and thereafter for ten shillings a year. Various cheques were signed.
On 7th December the Council met in the School Room. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported that the concreting of the space between the Jubilee Hall and the Bakery was almost completed but that, owing to the non- cooperation of the owners of the Bakery, it would be impossible to complete the job as he had wished. The cost of this work was expected to be £50. The Clerk was asked to proceed with repairing the boundary wall approach from Fore Street and with the erection of suitable gates to prevent "little boys from trespassing on the garden and surround of the Jubilee Hall". The Clerk reported that he was organising for the renovation of the equipment in the Recreation Ground as some of it had become dangerous and shabby. He said that he was applying to the Playing Fields Association for a grant towards the cost. It was reported that there had been eight applicants for the Jubilee Hall garden. After a discussion the Council decided to divide it and to let the half near the garage to Mr Manning and the other half to Mr Evans and Mr Grabham. Mr Lawrence was the reserve choice. Authority was given to the Clerk to proceed with the other planned work for the Hall, while Mr Pym was asked to see if Mr Hart would sell some iron railings to the Council, which he had and appeared not to need. They were thought to be suitable for gates from Fore Street. The Clerk asked the Council for their authority to buy a brief case as “he was rather tired of walking about with the Council books wrapped up in a piece of old paper and string”. His request was granted! Various cheques were signed.
On 7th January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk presented a Financial Report showing a balance of about £80 in the Parish Council Account. He then gave details of the Auditors comments on the Year 1950/1951. The Clerk reported that he had not received a reply from Mr Wheaton about buying some of his land for an extension to the Cemetery. Mr Dommett was asked to take up the matter with Mr Wheaton. The Council was informed that the District Surveyor had authorised a sign for the dangerous corner at Axe Bridge and that it would be erected shortly.
A letter of complaint from Mr Higgins was read saying that his Bakehouse wall had been damaged by the lavatory overflow in the Jubilee Hall. After a long discussion the Council agreed to ask Mr Slade to carry out the necessary work for his estimated cost of £50 to £55. An application from Mr Phelps to hire the Jubilee Hall on Wednesday evenings for Old Time Dancing was agreed at a cost of £0:15:0d per session. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Wheaton to remove the obstructions on the Winsham to Ammerham footpath. The Clerk reported that the original shares in the Royal Agricultural Halls (nominal value 10 x £10) had been exchanged for 140 x £1 shares. A fresh certificate had been issued.
It was proposed by Mr Pym and seconded by Mr Miles that Mr Dommett be appointed as representative Trustee of the Wheadon's Charity in place of Mr Rushton who had left the district. Various cheques were signed including one to K D Slade for £22:1:6d for repairs to the Jubilee Hall.
There was a Special Council Meeting on 24th January in the Jubilee Hall to arrange a social event. Revd Childs was Chairman. Tasks delegated by him were:
It was agreed to display notices in the Village Shop and for Mr Hawker to be approached for a gramophone.
On 18th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Arrangements for the Social were discussed. Various cheques were signed.
On 26th May the Council met for the Annual Parish Meeting. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Pym as Vice Chairman. Other elected members were Mary Bowden, Theodore John Childs, James Cull, Hilda Mary Evans, Beatrice May Harding, Douglas Henry Paull, Joe Hodder Phillips, and Janet Dunn Ralston. After some discussion it was decided to advertise for a Parish Clerk as the Temporary Clerk, Mr Phillips wished to be relieved of his duties. It was agreed to let the keep on the Recreation Ground to Miss Courtney for the year for £5. The Council decided to ask Miss Harding to check the Rights of Way and Footpaths survey before it is sent to the County Council. They also decided to agree to a request from Mr Evans, the Cemetery Caretaker, for some gravel to be bought for the paths.
On 4th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. It was reported that Miss Harding had checked the Survey of Footpaths and Rights of Way and had found them to be correct. The Clerk was authorised to return the document to Chard R.D.C. for forwarding to the County Council. The Clerk was asked to write to the Committee of the Old Time Dancing Class thanking them for their gift of £4:10:0d to the Jubilee Hall Fund. They were granted use of the Hall for another year! They were also allowed to use it free of charge for a Dance on 12 September in order to raise funds for “The Lynmouth Disaster Fund”.
The Chairman announced that the Church collection on 14 September would be donated to the same cause. The Council agreed to hire out the Jubilee Hall chairs at six pence each, chairs having to be returned the following day. The Clerk reported that Miss Courtney no longer wanted the keep of the Recreation Ground. Revd Childs and Mrs Bowden were re-elected as members of the School Managers representing the Parish Council. The members heard that four more Council Houses were planned and that building should start soon. The Council was told of a number of complaints about the filthy condition of the main village streets. The Clerk was asked to raise the matter with the appropriate authorities. The following cheques were signed:
On 3rd October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk read a letter from Miss Courtney asking for the keep of the Recreation Field. After a discussion the Council decided to refuse her application as the children were now using the Field a great deal.
The Clerk reported that at a meeting he had had with the Highways Surveyor, it had been agreed that traffic signs should be erected at the approaches to the village from West Street and from the Chard to Bridport road. It was also agreed to place white lines at the cross roads near the War Memorial. The Surveyor was not sympathetic to the request to tidy the filthy streets, saying “ that it was just a question of finance and a shortage of labour and he thought a lot could be done if the public exercised a little more thought and refrained from throwing cigarette packets etc about the streets”.
The Council discussed the hire charges for the Jubilee Hall and agreed to some changes. After a long debate it was agreed to form a Coronation Celebrations Committee made up of representatives from all the clubs and organisations in the village. The 27 November was planned for their first meeting. Miss Ralston raised the subject of sewage disposal, saying that the village had far more cases of measles, mumps and tonsillitis than elsewhere locally. Messrs Cull and Phillips said they were taking up the matter with Chard R.D.C. Various cheques were signed.
On 27th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk gave his Financial Report. The balance in the account was £242:8:3d. “ A letter from the Secretary of the Old Time Dancing Class was read by the Clerk complaining of the action of the Caretaker of the Hall with regard to the erection of the stage etc and also that access to the Ladies Toilet Room was not possible on the night that the class had use of the Hall owing to a Football Meeting being held in the kitchen. The Caretaker was questioned as regards the complaint and after a lengthy discussion it was proposed by Mrs Bowden and seconded by Miss Ralston that the Football Club be asked to change their night of meeting so as to enable the Old Time Dancing Class to have full use of the Hall and Ladies Cloak Room. Carried unanimously.”
The meeting chose Revd Childs to be Chairman of the Coronation Celebrations Committee with Mr Meaker as Secretary after which there was a discussion about the programme of events. This meeting was well attended. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 23rd January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. Others present were Messrs Pym, Dommett, Miles, Phillips and Mesdames Bowden and Dommett. The Council decided that people hiring the Jubilee Hall should be responsible for locking up after a function and for handing the keys to the Caretaker. They then discussed a complaint from Mr Hood that water from the Jubilee Hall was entering his house. The Clerk was asked to contact Mr Slade to do any necessary work. It was agreed to have a Spring Clean in the Hall and to perhaps make use of the carpet, which had been stored in the attic since the Hall was taken over as a school during the War. The Council decided to obtain an estimate for various repairs in the Churchyard. A number of cheques were signed.
On 9 April the Council gathered in the Jubilee Hall for the Annual Meeting. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Pym Vice- Chairman. Other members present were Messrs Dommett, Miles, and Phillips and Mrs Dommett. Apologies were received from Mrs Bowden. As there were no volunteers for the post of Clerk, Mr Phillips agreed to continue for a further year. It was decided to apply to the Somerset Education Committee for a grant towards the maintenance of the Jubilee Hall. After a long discussion it was decided to raise some of the charges for hiring the Jubilee Hall. Other decisions made at the meeting were:
Various routine cheques were signed.
On 26th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. It was reported that Civil Defence Courses would start in the Jubilee Hall on 5 July. Mr Douglas Paul was appointed Caretaker of the Hall in succession to his mother who had died. Mr Phillips handed in his letter of resignation to the Chairman, which was accepted. Cheques were signed for the following:
On 1st October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Clerk reported details of the audit of the accounts for the year 1950/1951. He was asked to speak to the Highways Surveyor about the need for signs to warn of the danger posed by the Axewater Bridge. The Council decided to appoint Mr J Evans as Caretaker of the Cemetery at an annual salary of £20, which would be subject to periodical review. The Clerk was asked to speak to Mr Wheaton about buying some of his land for an extension to the Cemetery. Mrs Dommett was elected to serve on the Nursing Association Committee. The Clerk reported that he had received a letter from the County Council about the Welfare Clinic, which was to be run once a month in the Jubilee Hall. He also read a letter he had had from The Royal Agricultural Hall Ltd proposing a re-arrangement of their share capital. It was agreed that the Clerk should get advice from the Manager of the Westminster Bank before taking any action. The Clerk reported that the Women’s Institute had presented a set of stage curtains to the Jubilee Hall and that he had written a letter of thanks. Various cheques were signed.
The Council met on 21st February in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The final account from Messrs Spiller was presented. It was for £412:14:8d. As the Council had already paid £250 a debt of £162:14:8d remained. The Clerk pointed out that there was not enough money in the account to meet this sum. It was agreed to pay £100 on account and to see if Messrs Spiller could offer some rebate. After doing that the Council planned to appeal to the County Education Committee for more money. The Chairman reported that the Church clock was in need of repair .It was agreed to support an appeal to the Parish for the £50 or £60 required. Mrs Dommett drew attention to the “ Blind Spot” at Street Corner and it was agreed to contact the District Surveyor .
On 5th May the Council gathered in the Jubilee Hall for the Annual Parish Meeting. Revd Childs was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Pym Vice-Chairman in succession to Mr Rushton who had resigned from the Council. The Chairman was asked to contact Mr Rushton to try to persuade him to remain a member of the Council. Others present were Mrs Bowden, Mr and Mrs Dommett, Messrs Miles, Pym, Pattemore and Phillips. The Council agreed to advertise for a Parish Clerk in the Chard and Ilminster News. Mr Phillips explained that the workload had increased and would continue to do so and that a Permanent Clerk was required. The Council then discussed raising more funds for the repairs and improvements to the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed to stage another Festivities Week and a meeting was arranged for 18 May to float ideas. Following an application from a political party to hire the Jubilee Hall, the Council decided it should not be used for such a purpose and should only be available for locally organised events enjoyed by villagers. It was decided to allow the Girl Guides to use the Recreation Ground for their exercise. The Council agreed to leave the charges for hiring the Jubilee Hall unaltered except for a new charge of £0:2:6d for using the power point to make tea.
On 4th August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Chairman reported that he had written to Mr Rushton but to no avail.
It was agreed that the Women’s Institute should have their own Notice Board outside the Jubilee Hall provided it was kept in good repair. The Council granted permission for the Football Club to use the coal storeroom in the Jubilee Hall as a changing room for visiting teams. A request from the Labour Party to use a cupboard in the Jubilee Hall for storing crockery and to erect a Notice Board outside was rejected.
The Clerk briefed the members on a meeting he had attended in Chard concerning Public Rights of Way. He also gave details of the damage done to the War Memorial by a lorry belonging to Mr Wheaton. He said the matter was being dealt with by the police .He continued by saying that the District Nurses were to be re-housed and he considered the Council house currently occupied by the R.D.C. Architect Mr Lee to be suitable for their use.
A letter was read out from Brigadier Neville about Civil Defence Recruiting. The Council agreed to ask Lieutenant Colonel Tomkins to be responsible for local recruiting. The Chairman reported that the County Education Committee had sent a cheque for £12:10:0d to go towards the cost of repairs to the Jubilee Hall. This was in response to a request for £150!
After a long discussion the Temporary Clerk agreed to continue for another year provided someone else could do the Jubilee Hall bookings. The Council agreed that the Caretaker, Mrs Paul, should be approached. Various cheques were signed .
On 22nd August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. Following “ The Winsham Week” the members decided that a letter should be sent to the main participants asking for their views on how the money made should be spent. It was decided that a letter of thanks should be sent to Mr Simmonds for his Picture Entertainment and to Mr Grabham of the George Hotel for the loan of the Skittle Alley.
The Council agreed to invite Mr Dommett, Clerk to Chard R.D.C., to a Parish Meeting on 7 September to explain the Somerset County Council policy on Rights of Way.
On 16th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs acted as Chairman. It was with great regret that the death of Mr Pattemore was reported. A tribute was paid to him by the Chairman, all members standing for two minutes in silence as a mark of respect. The Council agreed to carry out further repairs to the Jubilee Hall, namely relining the roof valleys and concreting the path at the rear of the building. A letter was read from Mr C W Phelps resigning as Cemetery Caretaker from 25 March 1951.The following cheques were signed:
The first meeting of the New Year was on 1st March. It was a Special Meeting called by the Chairman, Sir George Davies. The purpose of the meeting was for the Chairman to announce that Somerset Education Committee had decided to make a grant of £150 to Winsham Parish Council towards the total cost of £300 for repairs and decoration of the Jubilee Hall. The Council voted to accept the offer with a suitably appreciative letter. The Chairman agreed to investigate whether further funding might be available in the next financial year.
On 29th March the Annual Parish Council Meeting took place in the Jubilee Hall. Those Council members present were Major Sir George Davies CVO, Messrs Browning, Loaring, Pattermore, Pym, Lacey, Hammett, Phillips and Pastor W E Rushton. The Clerk opened the meeting with his Financial Statement for the year ending 31 March 1949 showing a working balance of £44:14:3d.The Chairman then gave his report in which he said that the grant of £150 from the County Education Committee was conditional on the Parish raising an equivalent amount. The Council authorised the Chairman to accept the offer with “ the stipulation that the Council would attempt to raise the balance”. The Council also endorsed that the Chairman’s Report which he planned to present to the Annual Parish Meeting. The Council agreed to let the keep on the Recreation Ground to Miss Courtney for one year for £5.It also agreed to let the Jubilee Hall to Mr Simmonds on a Monday evening in December for a “Free Picture Show” for the villagers. The Clerk reported that the application for a bus service via Bridge, Leigh and White Gate would be considered at the next meeting of the Transport Board. Various routine cheques were signed.
There was a Special Meeting of the Parish Council on 3rd May in the Jubilee Hall. Major Sir George Davies was Chairman. Other members of the newly elected Council present were Messrs Browning, Loaring, Pattermore, Pym, Lacey, Hammett, Phillips and Pastor Rushton. The Chairman told the Council of his concern over the urgency of the repairs to the Jubilee Hall and of the need for the new Council to raise between £150 and £200 to match the County grant thus enabling the work to be done. It was reported that the Church Members had raised enough money to repair the Churchyard path .The Council agreed to ask the contractors to tarmac the path running from Poole’s Lane to the Cemetery as well at a total cost of about £60.After due consideration the Council decided not to remain a member of the Somerset Association of Parish Councils due to “the apathy shown by a number of parishes in the County over the recent elections and nominations of Parish Councillors”. It was reported that the Agricultural Hall Islington Company was doing well and that a six percent dividend on the Councils shares was thought likely. The members were then informed that Sir George Davies would not be seeking re-election as he planned to leave the district. Both the Clerk and Pastor Rushton paid tribute to Sir George and to Lady Davies for their wonderful contribution to the life of the Parish. “One could sense a feeling of sorrow that the Winsham Parish Council were losing Sir George as Chairman. The Band under Band Master Dunster played Auld Lang Syne and all members stood and joined hands and sang the old favourite meaningfully”. Sir George said he regretted leaving “but it had to be”. The meeting ended with the members singing the first verse of the National Anthem accompanied by the Winsham Band.
On 24th May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Those attending were Mrs Mary Bowden, Rev Theodore John Childs, Mrs Dorothy Clara Dommett, Messrs Leonard Sydney Dommett, Robert Frank Miles, Thomas Henry Pattermore, Joe Hodder Phillips, Cecil Frank Pym and Pastor Wilson Ernest Rushton. The Declaration of Acceptance of Office was made by each member before Revd Childs was elected as Chairman with Pastor Rushton Vice - Chairman. Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk for one more year. The following committees were appointed:
Recreation
Mrs Bowden
Mrs Dommett
Mr Miles
Mr Pattermore
Jubilee Hall & Cemetery
Mr Pym
Mr Phillips
Mr Dommett
The Clerk reported that the Church path and the path from Poole’s Lane to the Cemetery had been re-laid and that the workmanship was good. The Council wished to record their gratitude to the Parochial Church Council for their public-spirited action in meeting the cost of the Church path. The Council appointed Mrs Bowden and Revd Childs as its representatives on the Board of Managers for the Winsham School. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 2nd June there was a Special Meeting of the Council to consider an estimate from Messrs RG Spiller to carry out repairs to the Jubilee Hall. It was chaired by Revd Childs. After a long discussion it was decided to arrange a site meeting with the contractor when some further ideas could be talked over. Ways and means of raising at least £200 were discussed and it was agreed that the Entertainment Committee should bring their ideas for an Activities Week to the next Council meeting. The Council also agreed to buy a Minimax fire appliance for the Jubilee Hall. As there had been an accident in the Recreation Ground the Clerk was asked to contact the Prudential Insurance Company with the aim of arranging suitable cover in both the Recreation Ground and Jubilee Hall. (The accident was caused by one of the swing chains breaking. The child involved was not injured). Mrs Bowden reported that she had inspected the footpath leading from Chard Road to Holliwells Lane and that an obstruction did exist. The Clerk was asked to write to the landowner concerned.
On 16th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. Mr Miles told the Council that the Entertainments Committee had discussed fund raising ideas for the Jubilee Hall. After a long discussion the Council concluded that a Festivities Week should be held during the period of 11-17 September. The members then examined Messrs Spillers estimate to carry out the repairs to the Jubilee Hall and decided to accept the quote with the proviso that the ceiling be cleaned only and then treated with one coat of Cuprinol Insecticide. The Clerk was asked to request an amended estimate and to instruct them to carry on with the repairs to the roof as soon as possible. The following cheques were signed:
On 21st July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The Council decided to replace the chains on the swings in the children’s playground with steel wire following the recent accident when a chain broke. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to Chard R.D.C. to express regret that the application for a Workman’s Bus had not been successful and to urge that the matter be put before the Consultative Committee as Winsham Parish Council had been pursuing this matter for a very long time. The Chairman agreed to interview Mr Saunders about the obstructions to footpaths on his land and the poor state of repair of some of his stiles. (Mr Saunders had ignored several letters from the Clerk to the Parish Council). After some discussion the members agreed that a presentation should be made to Sir George and Lady Davies to reflect the villages appreciation for all they had done for Winsham. The Council decided that Miss Creech, probably assisted by Miss Harding, should be appointed Treasurer of the fund. It was thought that the presentation should be held on the opening night of the Jubilee Hall Week. The Council agreed to confirm the revised estimate from Messrs Spiller for the repairs to the Jubilee Hall of £344:14:6d and to set the Fund Raising Target Figure for the Hall at £750:0:0d.Various cheques were signed including one for £60:0:0d to Mr Leonard Fisher for the work done on the Churchyard and Cemetery paths.
On 9th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. A letter was read from Chard R.D.C. allocating one of the new Council houses to Mr Lee, the R.D.C. Technical Assistant. As the Council could do nothing about the matter it was decided to let it drop. Mr Miles, Chairman of the Entertainment Committee, reported that everything was in order for the “Festivities Week” following an enormous amount of work by the Committee and various helpers. In view of the general feeling in the village, the Council decided that there would not be a presentation to Sir George and Lady Davies. On 5 October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. The members discussed the colour scheme for the Jubilee Hall and decided to follow the suggestions made by Mrs Bowden and Mrs Dommett. It was reported that the Festivities Week had made £240:19:9d .The Council agreed that details should be displayed in Messrs Appleby’s Shop window with the kind permission of Mr and Mrs Goodier. A vote of thanks was carried unanimously for the hard work put in by the Entertainment Committee and their helpers. The subject of improving the lighting in the Jubilee Hall was discussed. It was agreed to ask Mr Hayes for ideas.
On 11th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Childs was Chairman. He read a letter from Mrs Bowden tendering her resignation. During a long discussion Mr Miles explained his position in the matter and it was agreed that the Chairman should write to Mrs Bowden asking her to reconsider her decision. The Council decided to pay Messrs Spiller £250 from the Improvement Fund as work on the Jubilee Hall was nearing completion. Various routine cheques were signed.
The last meeting of the year was on 2nd December. It was chaired by Revd Childs who explained that he had written to Mrs Bowden and that, as a result, she had decided to withdraw her resignation. This news delighted the members. A discussion took place over details to do with the Jubilee Hall such as curtain material, concreting the path outside and scrubbing the floor. The Council agreed that other work would have to be done on the Hall in the future and that therefore other fund raising events would have to be held. It was agreed that Mrs Bowden would speak to Miss Harding about organising a social event in the New Year.
On 13th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall .Sir George Davies was Chairman. Others present were Messrs Browning, Lacey, Loaring, Pattemore, Pym, Rushton, Hammett and Phillips. The Clerk presented the accounts for the year ending 31 March 1947. There then followed lengthy discussions about fees for using the Jubilee Hall and for burials. It was decided to delay any decision concerning the Jubilee Hall until the Clerk had done some more research but the following resolution about burial fees was passed:
“Until a revised list of internment fees has been approved by the Ministry of Health, the charge for internment of the body of a person whose age at the time of death exceeds one month and in respect of whose grave no exclusive right of burial has been granted, shall be £0:15:0d exclusive of the cost of the digging of the grave (which is the responsibility of the relatives of the deceased) as approved by the Ministry of Health on March 17 1925”.
The Chairman read out a letter from the Secretary of the Youth Club. Councillors expressed regret over remarks made in the letter about the piano and one member hoped that “ the Youth Club would so flourish and be in a position to eventually present a new piano to the Council !” An estimate of £12 to £14 from Mr Slade to repair storm damage to the Churchyard was accepted. The Chairman reported that Mr Churchill would not be able to take over as Parish Clerk. The Temporary Clerk agreed to continue for another year. A Precept for £50 was agreed. Various cheques were signed.
On 12th March the Annual Meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. The Clerk gave a Financial Statement showing a balance of about £170.He then reported that Mr Slade had repaired storm damage to the roof of the Jubilee Hall and had done it well. The Council discussed and agreed revised fees for use of the Jubilee Hall. Examples of these were that the charge for a dance went up from £0:15:6d to £1 and for a wedding reception from £0:11:6d to £0:17:6d. Sir George Davies was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J Phillips Vice Chairman. The Clerk reported that Mrs Paul was unable to continue as Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall due to failing health. He was authorised to find a temporary replacement. He was also asked to let the keep of the Recreation Ground for one year. Various cheques were signed.
On 23rd June the Parish Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. Others present were Messrs Browning, Loaring, Pattemore, Pym, Lacey, Phillips and Pastor Rushton. Mr Hammett was unable to attend. It was reported that the Cemetery was being well maintained and that, as Mr Churchill had the necessary materials, the fencing around the Children’s Playground could be finished. The Council discussed the poor state of the Jubilee Hall roof. It was agreed to obtain some estimates for the repair work required. As Mr Phillips had resigned the Council voted to replace him on the body of School Managers with Revd Childs. The Council decided to allow the Conservative Party to use the Children’s Playground for a Cinema Show on 1 July. It was agreed that other political parties should be allowed to do the same if they wished to. Various cheques were signed.
On 24th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. The Clerk presented the accounts for the previous two years showing a balance of about £180.The Chairman congratulated the Clerk on this satisfactory state of affairs and for the successful audit. The Chairman reported that the major repairs to the War Memorial had been completed at a cost of £117 by Messrs H L Woolcott. The Clerk said that an application for a 7:15 am Workman’s Bus had been made and that Chard R.D.C. had supported the request. There was a long discussion about the cost of maintaining the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed that a further appeal to the villagers would probably be necessary in due course. Cheques were signed for the following:
On 29th December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. The Clerk read his Financial statement which showed a balance of about £60.The Chairman then read a letter from the Chief Education Officer about the hiring of the Jubilee Hall for Cultural and Educational events with the aim of qualifying for a grant to help meet the cost of essential repairs. After some discussion it was decided to let the Jubilee Hall to all “Cultural and Educational Bodies” for the nominal fee of two shillings per evening. Charges for such events as Whist Drives and Dances would remain unaltered. The Clerk then read a letter from Chard R.D.C. saying that they had provisionally selected a site for the building of more houses on the West side of the existing Bakers Field houses. As the site was over eight acres the R.D.C. considered that part of the land might be suitable as a Playing Field. After some discussion it was agreed that a better site would be part of the arable field opposite the field being offered by Chard R.D.C.
The Council was told that the coke stove in the Jubilee Hall was beyond repair. It was agreed to replace it. Various cheques were signed.
On 23rd January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies acted as Chairman. The Clerk presented a Financial Statement to the Council which showed that, including the Repair fund, there was a balance of £196:17:1d at the Westminster Bank. The Repair Fund amounted to £98:0:10d.The Clerk suggested that the Repair Fund should be made into a separate account. This idea was agreed. The Chairman told the Council that Mr Morgan had reported that Messrs Spillers quote of £275 for repairs to the Jubilee Hall was £50 too high. The Council agreed that the necessary work should start when funds become available. Pastor Rushton presented the report of his Playing Fields Committee. He described the planned work with relevant costs, including “incising the additional names on the War Memorial, which last would cost approximately £10.”It was decided to defer all this work for other estimates. The Chairman reported that he had sent two men to level the Ground. They had spent two and a half days there. He offered more workmen for other tasks. The Chairman agreed to contact the County Surveyor to provide road signs at a number of places in the Parish. The Clerk reported that the Cemetery Caretaker had resigned and that he had been unable to find a replacement. The Council agreed to his suggestion that instead of having a permanent Caretaker the Parish should pay someone to tidy the Cemetery and dig graves as required at the current rate of pay. The Clerk then reported that he had discovered that the Burial Fees in Winsham were far lower than a neighbouring parish. He was asked to obtain exact details in time for the next meeting. Cheques were signed for:
The Annual Meeting was held on 28th March in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. Other Councillors present were Messrs J H Phillips, S A Browning, J Hammett, G S Lacey, C A Loaring, T H Pattemore, C F Pym, Pastor W E Rushton and the Assistant Clerk Mr J Churchill. Sir George Davies was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Phillips Vice Chairman. After some discussion Mr Phillips agreed to continue as Clerk for the next year if he was relieved of the responsibility for booking the Jubilee Hall and of finding a gravedigger. Mr J Churchill agreed to take over the bookings of the Hall. The Clerk presented a Financial Statement showing a balance of £36:11:9d in the current account and £91:12:3d on deposit. The Chairman reported that the necessary steps were being taken to carry out Lord Bridport's kind offer to delete from the Deed of Conveyance to the Council the penalty clause providing for the forfeiting, under certain circumstances, of the Hall and the Endowment Fund. He then said that the safety railings for the Children’s Playground along Western Way were ready for installation and had been paid for. He continued by saying that Messrs Woolcott of Tatworth had agreed to repair the retaining wall and the masonry around the War Memorial for £50.He went on to say that he had discussed with someone from Messrs Appleby and Childs of Yeovil the inscribing of additional names on the Memorial. It was agreed that all this planned work would have to wait for good weather. The Council discussed at length the problem of the digging of graves. It was agreed that the Chairman and Pastor Rushton should interview Mr Singleton to see if he would take on this task at £0:2:6d per hour. The Chairman reported that the County Council had accepted responsibility for the repair of Poole’s Lane and that “the necessary work would be put in hand”. The Clerk reported that he had had numerous complaints about the cleaning of gutters in the main streets, which had been causing unnecessary flooding. The Chairman agreed to speak to the County Surveyor. It was reported that posters had been displayed in the village promoting the “ Dig for Plenty” campaign. The Council decided to run a Flag Day for King Georges Fund in conjunction with other villages in the area. Various cheques were signed including one for the Ministers Fees for the funeral of the late F D Richardson.
On 30th May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies acted as Chairman. The Clerk presented a Financial Statement and the Council agreed to press ahead with the improvements to the Children’s Playground at a total cost of £100, £17 more than the balance in the Improvement Fund on the assumption that the extra money could be raised by the time the bills had to be paid. The Clerk reported that the Royal Agricultural Company had resumed dividend payments on the shares, which form an Endowment Fund of the Jubilee Hall. These had stopped during the War. The Chairman reported that it was likely that £46 of back payments of Income Tax in respect of the Jubilee Hall could be recovered, as the Hall is by nature a charitable and not profit making undertaking. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to the Winsham Band following their generous gift of £20 to the Improvement Fund. The appointment of new Trustees to replace Revd Richardson and Mr C.S Appleby, who had both died, was delayed until a new Vicar had been appointed. Various cheques were signed.
On 31st July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Phillips was Chairman. (Sir George Davies had given notice that he would be abroad until October). It was agreed to engage the "Flutterbyes Concert Party" to give a concert in October at an inclusive fee of twelve guineas .The suggested date was 31 October. This event was to raise money for the Improvement Fund. The Council decided to ask the Clerk to write a letter of sympathy to Mrs Paul, Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall, following the death of her husband in an accident at the Axewater Bridge Bend. It was also agreed that a letter should be sent to the Highway Authority asking for warning signs to be installed at this dangerous corner. The Clerk read out the latest bank statement for the Vicar and Trustees Deposit Balance which showed a balance of £54:12:8d. The United Charities Current Account was £52:6:2d in credit. It was agreed that Pastor Rushton be appointed one of the Trustees filling the vacancy created by the death of Mr CS Appleby. Various cheques were signed.
On 9th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Phillips acted as Chairman. A letter was read from Mr Dommett requesting that the County Council adopt the road running from Paul’s Ash to Wayford. The Clerk was asked to pass the letter to Chard R.D.C. for action. He then announced that the Southern Bus Company had intimated that they were prepared to provide a daily service, very good news! The Council then discussed the current timetable and decided to ask for some alterations. The Flutterbyes Concert was then debated and it was agreed to go ahead, with any profit going to the Village Improvements Fund. The date of 31 October was confirmed. Mr Rushton reported that permission had been given for the Children’s Playground to be fenced. A Precept for £50 was agreed. Various cheques were signed.
The last meeting of the Year was on 30th December. Sir George Davies was Chairman. The Clerk gave a Financial Statement showing matters in a healthy state. The Chairman then outlined his ideas on the removal of the Village Pump and the Village Cross for safety reasons. It was agreed that this should be discussed at the Parish Meeting. A letter from Messrs Foote and Sanders was read asking for Gospel Hall Lane to be adopted by Chard R.D.C. As the lane is owned by several people, the Council felt they were unable to do anything. The Clerk reported that he had received a refund of Income Tax on the Jubilee Hall of £43:17:6d. A request from Mrs Bowden, Secretary of the Youth Club, to hire the Jubilee Hall was discussed. It was agreed to allow them to use it on one evening a week at a charge of £0:7:6d.Various cheques were signed.
On 24th January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. seeking their permission for Mr Churchill to repair any leaking pipes or taps, as there were very long delays in getting them repaired at present. It was agreed to ask Chard R.D.C. to arrange a daily bus service for workmen, or at least one on Monday mornings. It was decided to apply for the number of Parish Councillors to be increased from six to nine at the next election. Regret was expressed at the absence through illness of both Mr Appleby and the Clerk.
On 28th March the Council met. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read saying that the Sanitary Inspector would be dealing with the water wastage problem. The Council agreed “ that the names of those young men who had laid down their lives in the War be added to the names on the War Memorial”. Various cheques were signed.
The Parish Council Meeting on 28th March marked the end of an era because, at the subsequent one held on 26th April, many of the old faces were missing, replaced by a “New Look Council”. Mr Cross, the Clerk, had resigned due to poor health but there is no indication as to why Revd Richardson was replaced as Chairman. He had been Chairman since April 1925; perhaps he felt he had done his bit after twenty-one years! Whatever, there is no tribute to his outstanding service to the Council in the minutes of the meeting on 26 April 1946.
On 26th April the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Messrs S A Browning, J Hammett, G S Lacey, C A Loaring, T H Pattemore, J H Phillips, C F Pym, Revd E Rushton and Sir George Davies C.V.O. On a motion proposed by Mr Phillips and seconded by Mr Pym Sir George was elected as Chairman unanimously. Mr Phillips was elected as Vice Chairman after winning more votes than Revd Rushton. There was a long discussion about appointing a new Clerk. It was agreed that until a replacement for Mr Cross was found Mr Phillips would fill the role. The Council decided to mark “ Victory Day” with a celebration including entertainment for the children. The Acting Clerk was asked to book the Winsham Band. He then read out a letter from Chard R.D.C. saying that some financial assistance would be available for such an event. The Chairman told the members that they should all see the legal documents relating to Parish Council property. He agreed to bring them to the next meeting. Messrs Browning and Lacey were asked by the Chairman to investigate a complaint about the dangerous state of the road at Purtington. Mr Phillips made the Council aware of the shortage of water in the village and of the action being taken by Chard R.D.C. Cheques were signed for:
There was a Special Meeting of the Parish Council on 2nd May in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. The reason for it being a special meeting was to inspect the Parish Councils property documents. However, the Chairman told the meeting that in his opinion this could wait for another time, as there were more important matters to be resolved. This was agreed. He then read a prepared statement detailing the powers, liabilities, responsibilities and property of the Council. He thought it desirable for this information to be placed on record. The Council agreed that this statement should be checked by the Acting Clerk and then added to the minutes. It should also be displayed in the village for the information of all parishioners. Messrs Brown and Lacey reported that a guard fence would solve the road problem at Purtington. The Chairman agreed to inform the Highways Authority. The Chairman reported that he had been unsuccessful in finding a replacement for Mr Cross as Parish Clerk. After a long debate Mr Phillips volunteered to act as Clerk for six months and the Council gratefully accepted this offer. It was agreed that it would be desirable to appoint an Assistant Clerk who could learn the duties of the position of Clerk from the Temporary Clerk! Such a person might then become qualified to fill the post of Parish Council Clerk. The Chairman was authorised to approach the following in order:
There then followed a long discussion about the arrangements for The Victory Celebrations. Decisions made were that:
Statement submitted by the Chairman at a meeting of the Parish Council on Thursday 2nd May 1946:
Cemetery
A loan of £150 was made from the bank in Chard on 19 December 1919 for the purchase of the Cemetery, which was paid off on 15 December 1938.The Parish Council are the Burial Authority. Besides being responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the Cemetery, they are responsible for allotting sites for graves.
Borrowing
If the Parish Council wish to borrow money for some improvement work, it is necessary to obtain the consent of the County Council and the Ministry of Health. The interest on and repayment of any loan must be borne by the ratepayers of the parish.
Rates
The “Rateable Value” of the Parish is £2233, and a penny rate produces £19:13:5d as at the year ended 31 March 1945.
The Council is empowered to spend a four penny rate or £38:13:5d or up to an eight penny rate with the consent of a Parish Meeting. Anything in excess of that amount requires the consent of “Higher Authority”. Burial Expenses can be increased in addition to the four penny or eight penny rate.
Property
The Parish Council, as Trustees, holds the following property:
And also an investment of £100 in the Royal Agricultural Hall Company Limited Certificate Number 1494 for 10 £10 shares dated 26 February 1926.
Documents
All Trust Deeds, Title Deeds etc are kept in a “tin box”, the property of the Council, in the safe custody of the Westminster Bank Ltd Chard.
Liabilities
The Council has no outstanding financial liabilities in the way of loans etc, other than their general responsibility for the upkeep, maintenance and administration of the property they hold.
Poll
The cost of a Poll is about £15. This is to be borne by the ratepayers of the Parish.
George.F.Davies.
Chairman
There was a Special Meeting of the Council on th5 June in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. He read out a letter from Chard R.D.C. saying that the necessary road guard rail would be installed at Purtington. He told the meeting that he had checked all the Parish Documents and had placed a list and synopsis in the “tin box”. He asked that all Councillors familiarise themselves with all the documents before the Quarterly Meeting on 26 July. The Chairman then told the meeting that he had seen Mr Jack Churchill and that he had reason to hope that he would become Assistant Parish Clerk with a view to later accepting the position of Parish Clerk. T here then followed a lengthy discussion about the Victory Celebrations. Revd Rushton and Mr Lacey considered their preparations to be satisfactory. Prize money was agreed for the various events, including Tug of War. Miss Harding, who was at the meeting, reported that the children were very keen. Mr Churchill, the Bandmaster and also at the Meeting, reported that the band was ready and at would be “under the instruction of the Council”. Mr Jack Churchill, at the meeting and in charge of the loudspeaker, said he was ready and that the radio set was suitable for the “job to be done”. It was agreed to ask Mr Lomax to audit the Victory Celebration Account in due course. Mr Jack Churchill was voted in as Assistant Parish Clerk.
On 20th June a Special Meeting of the Parish Council was held in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. Mr Jack Churchill attended as Assistant Clerk with Mr Phillips in the roles of Vice Chairman and Temporary Clerk. The Chairman explained that the purpose of the meeting was to wind up the accounts and other matters connected with the Victory Celebrations. The Chairman reported that he had written to a number of people thanking them for their help. Revd Rushton reported a surplus of £13:17:0d from the refreshments, having served 133 teas. After some discussion it was decided to hold this money for the present until it was agreed how it could best be used for the benefit of the parishioners .Mr Lacey reported that the sports had gone well and that the Dance in the Jubilee Hall had been a great success with plenty of helpers. Various cheques were signed.
On 27th June the Quarterly Meeting of the Parish Council was held in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. He explained that in preparation for this meeting he had asked the Temporary Clerk to prepare a Financial Statement showing the normal income and expenditure of the Council. This showed an average expenditure of £108 compared to an average income of £100. The Chairman said he had examined the insurance cover on the Jubilee Hall .He believed some changes were necessary and it was agreed that he and the Temporary Clerk would bring a proposal to the next meeting. The Council considered the Synopsis of Title Deeds prepared by the Chairman who stated that “the crux of the matter was to be found in the conditions to be observed by the Council in accordance with the terms of the various deeds. In certain respects, particularly as regards maintenance and upkeep, it would appear that in the past the Council has been somewhat remiss. It was mainly a question of labour and expenses.” After some discussion the Chairman announced that, with the approval of the Council, he proposed to set up the following Standing Committees:
Finance
Sir George Davies (Chairman)
Mr Phillips
Mr Hammett
Recreation Field, Childrens Playground and Cemetery
Mr Rushton (Chairman)
Mr Lacey
Mr Pattemore
Jubilee Hall
Mr Phillips (Chairman)
Mr Pym
Mr Loaring
Mr Browning
The Council supported this idea.
The Chairman said he would try to recover some past Schedule A Income Tax on the Jubilee Hall and Schedule D Income Tax on dividends from the Royal Agricultural Hall Company Ltd. Under Any Other Business the Chairman said that if the Parishioners wanted improvements to be made in the village some funding system needs to be started. In order to do so a Parish Meeting would have to be called to gauge peoples feelings. Some initial ideas suggested by the Chairman were:
The Chairman suggested that if parishioners supported this idea, a fund could be started with weekly contributions leading to a situation in, say three years time, of having enough money for some improvements to be made. A general discussion followed at the end of which it was agreed that the matter should be raised at the next Parish Meeting. Mr Phillips was asked to attend the next meeting of the County Parish Council Association. Cheques were signed to pay the following:
The Council met on 27th September in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. He told the members that Mr Phillips had agreed to remain as Clerk until the many special problems awaiting consideration had been resolved. Mr Phillips, Chairman of the Jubilee Hall Committee gave a report, as did Mr Rushton for the Recreation Committee. Sir George Davies then gave his report from the Finance Committee. A general discussion followed at the end of which it was agreed that after some more research ideas about any improvements to village amenities should be debated at the Parish Meeting. It was decided that the Chairman and Mr Phillips should represent Winsham at any meetings of the Parish Council Association. The members decided that Mrs Bowden from Paul’s Ash and Mr Phillips should become the two School Managers. The Chairman read a letter from Chard R.D.C. questioning the ownership of the Pound. He and the Clerk were asked to investigate. The Clerk read out a Financial Statement as at the end of September, which showed a balance of £16.This sum included the profit made on the Victory Celebrations. The date of the next meeting was fixed for 17 October following the Parish Meeting on 11 October. Routine cheques were signed.
On 17th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies was Chairman. It was reported that, with the support of the Chard R.D.C., that efforts were being made to restore the Friday Bus Service between Chard and Winsham. Messrs Browning and Pattermore were tasked to investigate a complaint about the footpath between the Cemetery and Ammerham. In view of the voting at the Parish Meeting it was decided to canvas the whole village in an effort to raise a fund, by subscriptions, not weekly contributions, to enable the Council:
Councillors were asked to canvass various areas of the parish. Some cheques were signed.
On 21st November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Sir George Davies acted as Chairman. The Clerk reported that £64:10:6d had been collected by Councillors and with the surplus made on the Victory Day Celebrations of £13:17:0d,a total of £78:7:6d was now available .The Chairman congratulated the collectors on their efforts. He then briefed the members on discussions and correspondence he had had with various people about improvements to the Playground, Recreation Field and Jubilee Hall. After due discussion the Council decided:
Messrs Browning and Pattermore reported that there were no obstructions to the footpath running from the Cemetery to Ammerham. After a discussion they were asked to “find out and report on the Missing Kissing Gates belonging to this footpath”. The Clerk read correspondence he had had with Chard R.D.C. on the matter of the bus service .It was agreed that no further action could usefully be taken. The Council decided that Picture Shows should be on Monday Evenings in future to avoid interfering with Mr Rushton's Guild held at his church on Wednesday evenings. Cheques were signed for
The Statutory Meeting was held on 29th March in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Appleby Vice Chairman. Others present were Messrs Pym, Phillips, Mildon, Flory and the Clerk. As all matters on the agenda had been discussed at the Parish Meeting it was decided to proceed with the quarterly account. The Clerk told the Council that due to failing health he could not continue in his role as Clerk to the Council. Routine cheques were signed.
On 22nd June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was decided to offer a salary of £20 per year for the job of Caretaker of the Cemetery with an additional £5 for clearing the Churchyard and Cemetery. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. asking them to put Pools Lane “ in a better state of repair”. He was also asked to ensure that those booking the Jubilee Hall for Whist Drives and Dances be made aware that children under the age of fourteen should not be admitted. Various cheques were signed.
On 27th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall .Mr Appleby acted as Chairman .The Meeting was told that The Welcome Home Fund was being organised by a Committee elected at a public meeting. This clarified a query raised at the previous meeting. A bill for clearing the Cemetery and Churchyard from Mr Morgan was discussed. It was agreed to delay payment until Revd Richardson had spoken to Sir George Davies. Various cheques were signed .
On 19th December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Clerk reported that Chard R.D.C. had written to say that Somerset County Council was responsible for Pools Lane and that the Parish Council should write to them rather than to Chard R.D.C. The Council agreed to increase the charges for the hire of the Jubilee Hall to pay for repair work to damage caused by users. Routine cheques were signed.
The Statutory Meeting of the Parish Council took place on 28th March. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J H Phillips Vice Chairman. Others present were Messrs Flory, Pym and the Clerk. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. to clarify their advice on the need to boil drinking water. This issue had been raised at the Annual Parish Meeting following a notice published by them .It was decided to ask Mr Churchill to repair the gates in the fields leading to Ammerham. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 28th April the Council met, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The question of allowing the Youth Club to hire the Jubilee Hall was discussed in the presence of Miss Harding. She explained that the Club had been using the school but as building work was now going on there it was no longer suitable. The Council agreed to her request and set a rent of one shilling and six pence per night for the first three months after which it would be reviewed. It was agreed that the charge for the use of the Hall for Salute the Soldier Week would be £2:10:0d. A Precept for £50 was signed.
On 27th June the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. Present were Messrs Flory, Pym, Appleby and the Clerk. It was reported that Mr Singleton had resigned as Caretaker of the Cemetery owing to the death of his wife. “He had found it impossible to carry on.” The Clerk informed the Council that Mr Mildon was willing to become a Parish Councillor .The Chairman proposed and Mr Flory seconded a motion that he be co-opted. This was carried unanimously. The Clerk was asked to invite Mr Mildon to the next meeting. Routine cheques were signed.
On 28th September the Council met. Revd Richardson was Chairman. Others present were Messrs Appleby, Flory, Pym, Phillips, Mildon and the Clerk. Mr Mildon signed the Declaration on Acceptance of Office of Parish Councillor. It was agreed to send a petition signed by parishioners, with a letter from the Parish Council, to the Southern Bus Company asking for a better service. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Wheaton about the stiles in the fields leading to Ammerham. He was also asked to write to the police about the damage done to the War Memorial. The Council heard of “ complaints of damage done to windows by lads throwing stones and asking that the constable stationed at Winsham should put more time in at Winsham instead of Chard”. It was decided to ask Mr Churchill to put new chains on the swings in the Recreation Ground. The question of the water supply was discussed again and the Chairman promised to bring the matter before the next meeting of Chard R.D.C. Some routine cheques were signed.
The final meeting of the year was on 28th December. Revd Richardson was Chairman. A letter from the Southern Bus Company was read promising to try to improve the service. Another letter, this time from the Secretary of the War Agricultural Committee, was in response to one from the Parish Council asking whether a prisoner of war could be used to work in the Cemetery. This stated that the Committee could not release one for this purpose. Routine cheques were signed.
On 22nd February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. The Clerk reported the Cemetery Caretaker had given three months notice to terminate his employment. It was agreed to advertise for a replacement in the Chard and Ilminster News. A letter from the Ministry of Health told the Council that it could raise grave digging charges by showing a further charge for wages but that this must not be shown on the table of charges as a fixed sum. The Clerk was asked to get Mr Loaring to repair the Jubilee Hall roof and to paint white lines on the steps at the entrance. A Precept of £25 was signed.
On 24th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall for the Statutory Meeting. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J H Phillips Vice Chairman. Members present were Messrs Pym, Flory, Perry and the Clerk. The Clerk reported that no applications had been received for the post of Caretaker of the Cemetery. The Clerk was asked to speak to Mr Partridge about damage to the Cemetery railings .It was reported that the tin box containing Parish Council documents held at the Westminster Bank had been opened and its contents found to be correct. It was decided to have Winsham Parish Council painted on the front of the box. Various routine cheques were signed.
The Council met on 29th June in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman .The Clerk reported that Mr J Singleton had undertaken the work of Caretaker of the Cemetery but could not do any grave digging .The Council agreed to confirm this appointment. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read asking how many houses the Parish wanted to have built under the new housing scheme. A figure of twenty was agreed. An application for an increase in pay from the Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall was considered. It was decided to offer a flat rate of six shillings a week throughout the year. Cheques were signed for:
On 21st September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was decided to charge the Home Guard £8 for the use of the Jubilee Hall for the six months from October 1943 until March 1944 if used twice a week and £4 if once a week. The rate for the Young Men’s Club was fixed at £4 for the season running from October till March. Other charges for the hire of the Hall were to remain the same. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. and to the Chairman of the Water Committee about the leaking tap in Back Street. It was agreed to ask Mr Churchill to repair the swings in the Recreation Ground and for Mr Loaring to paint white lines on the steps of the Jubilee Hall. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 29th December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall .Mr J H Phillips acted as Chairman. The Clerk reported that the Home Guard had agreed to hire the Jubilee Hall on one evening a week during the winter. The Council was told of a complaint that the Home Guard was chalking notices on the doors in the Jubilee Hall. The Clerk was asked to ensure they stopped doing so. It was decided to advertise the Annual Meeting in the Chard and Ilminster News. Some routine cheques were signed.
On 12th January the Council met, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. Mr Homer attended the Meeting to complain that the Hall was only scrubbed twice a year. After discussion it was decided to ask Mrs Paul, the Caretaker, to join the meeting. She did so and after hearing the complaint said she would scrub the Hall more frequently if she were paid accordingly. It was agreed to add £1 to her salary for the extra work. The Council agreed to join the Parish Council Association with Mr Phillips being chosen to represent Winsham. Various cheques were signed.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 30th March in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J H Phillips Vice Chairman. Others present were Messrs Appleby, Perry, Pym and the Clerk. It was agreed to charge the Young Men’s Club £1 for electricity. Some routine cheques were signed.
On 29th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. Mr Phillips gave a short report on the meeting he attended of the Parish Council Association. It was decided to let Mr Partridge have the grass in the Recreation Field. Various cheques were signed.
On 28th September the Council met with Mr Phillips acting as Chairman. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read saying that the Education Officer had informed him that the Education Authority is only responsible for the additional rates during the time the Hall is used as a school. The Clerk was asked to inform the Education Authority that the agreement is that the rent charged of £54 per annum included payment for the Caretaker and cleaning, the use of furniture and lighting. The School Authorities are required to provide heating and to pay the Urban District Rates. An application from the Caretaker for an increase in salary was agreed. The Young Men’s Club was granted the use of the Hall for the winter months for £5, which would include lighting but not heating. The Home Guard was granted use of the Hall for one night a week for six months, the charge to be £4.Various routine cheques were signed.
On 28th December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was agreed to increase the Caretakers salary to eight shillings a week from September to March and to three shillings a week for the rest of the year. It was decided to authorise the Chairman to examine the contents of the tin box belonging to the Parish Council held in the Westminster Bank, Chard. He was asked to examine the shares of the Royal Agricultural Society in particular. The Council discussed the large number of complaints they had received about Mr Partridge’s fowls damaging the Cemetery. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Partridge telling him that the Council would claim for the cost of repairing the damage if the fowls continue to get into the Cemetery. Mr J H Phillips was appointed Schools Manager in place of Mr Warren who had left the Parish. The Clerk was asked to write to the Minister Of Health about grave digging charges as the Council was having difficulty getting the work done at the present rates. Routine cheques were signed.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 19th March in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J Warren Vice Chairman. Other members were Messrs Appleby, Pym, Flory and the Clerk. It was decided to charge the Young Men's Club £1 for lighting in the Jubilee Hall and the Home Guard £0:10:0d.The Clerk reported that Mr Partridge had promised to try to stop his fowls getting into the Cemetery. The Clerk also reported that Mr Chick Churchill would be taking over the duties of Cemetery Caretaker from Mr Grabham with effect from 25 March at a salary of £12 per annum with the usual fees for grave digging. Various cheques were signed.
On 30th June the Council met, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was decided that due to the small attendance the business on the agenda would be left until the next meeting. Some cheques were signed.
The Council met on 5th September. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. A letter was read from the Cemetery Caretaker Mr Churchill asking for an increase in salary from £12 a year to £16 and an increase for grave digging. The Council decided to increase his salary to £14 but not to alter the grave digging rate. The Chairman and Mr Phillips were appointed to represent the Council at a meeting in Chard to discuss salvage collection. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Wheaton about a horse rake obstructing the footpath to Ammerham. Mr Homer, attending the meeting, reported that 82 evacuee children were attending the school out of the total of 143 who had come to the village. He said that 61 had gone home. Various cheques were signed.
The Council met on 30th September. Revd Richardson was Chairman. It was reported that Mr Wheaton had moved his horse rake! The Chairman and Mr Phillips were appointed to represent the Council at a meeting in Chard Town Hall to discuss the best way of increasing the Village War Effort. Cheques were signed for:
On 29th December the Council met. Revd Richardson was Chairman. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read out. It came in response to a request from the Parish Council for the village pump to be repaired. It queried the necessity for such a pump. The Clerk was asked to write saying that the Council considered the pump essential as in winter the mains water taps often were frozen. Another letter from Chard R.D.C. was discussed which complained of a gate on the pathway leading from Ammerham to Chard road being blocked. The Clerk was asked to reply saying that this gate was blocked by order of the police owing to a bomb being dropped in the field .It had now been removed. It was reported that the Cemetery Caretaker had stated that he may have difficulty getting time off work to dig graves. The Chairman agreed to seek the cooperation of his employers, Chard R.D.C. Various cheques were signed.
On 15th February the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was reported that nothing had been done about the leaking standpipes. The Clerk was asked to write to the Council again urging action to be taken. It was decided to buy a new piano for the Jubilee Hall from Messrs Godfrey and Co of Yeovil value £27:10 :0d for £21 allowing the Council £6:10:0d for the old one in part payment.
The Statutory Annual Meeting was held on 28th March. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J Warren Vice Chairman. Members present were Messrs Appleby, Phillips, Perry and the Clerk. Complaints about the stiles between Ammerham and the Church were discussed and Mr Phillips agreed to see what could be done. The Clerk reported that the Auditors had ordered that a Register of Graves and Internment forms be kept and that a Fidelity Bond for the Clerk was needed. It was agreed to raise the Clerks salary by £1. A precept for £50 and various other cheques were signed.
The Council met on 23rd May, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was agreed to raise the charge for the digging of a grave from £0:15:0d to £1:0:0d.Mr Phillips reported that the complaints about the footpath stiles was in hand and the Council agreed that the Jubilee Hall should be used by the school to accommodate evacuated children. Various cheques were signed.
On 25th June the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The main business concerned the use of the Jubilee Hall as a school for evacuated children following an application from the L.C.C. Education Authorities. After discussion it was agreed to let the Hall for this purpose for £54 per annum, this charge to include payment for the Caretaker, cleaning and lighting. The School Authorities were to pay for heating and for the Urban District Rate. It was also agreed that the salary of the Jubilee Hall Caretaker should be raised to eight shillings per week with extra for scrubbing the Hall. Routine cheques were signed.
A Special Meeting was held on 15th July to decide what action to take to prevent enemy aircraft landing on open fields in the Parish. A second meeting took place on 17 July attended by many local farmers. They agreed to help by creating obstructions where necessary. A resolution was carried to seek some professional advice from a suitably experienced R.A.F. officer. Revd Richardson chaired these meetings.
On 25th September the Council met, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. A letter was read from Mr Homer, the Schoolmaster for the evacuee children, thanking the Parish Council and the residents of the village for their reception and kindness to the children. Routine cheques were signed.
On 30th December the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. There was little business of note. The state of the wells in Fore Street and of the Cemetery footpath were discussed and the Clerk was asked to write to Mr Partridge to stop allowing his fowls to trespass into the Cemetery! Routine cheques were signed.
On 4th January the Council met. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. Little business was done apart from dealing with a query from the Inspector of Taxes over ownership of the Recreation Ground and the state of Pools Lane.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 24th March. Present were Revd Richardson, Messrs Phillips, Appleby, Perry, Florey, Pym, Warren and the Clerk. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J. Warren as Vice Chairman. A letter from the Ministry of Health about grave digging charges was read and the Clerk was asked to reply. Various cheques were signed including one to Chard Motor Supply for £7:16:0d for the improvements to the lighting in the Jubilee Hall.
On 27th June the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. Others present were Messrs Appleby, Florey, Perry and the Clerk. A letter was read from the Somerset Police asking for all the help the Council could give to the work of the A.R.P. The Clerk was asked to reply to both this letter and one from the Somerset Community Council about the rates paid for the Jubilee Hall. Various routine cheques were signed.
The Council met on 27th September, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was agreed that the Young Men’s Club should have use of the Jubilee Hall for £5 per season .The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Partridge with a request for him to lower the steps on the stile in Ammerham Fields. He was also asked to write to Chard R.D.C. requesting that they put a white line on the road leading out of Chard Road into Church Street Winsham. Various cheques were signed.
On 28th December the Council met. Present were Messrs Appleby, Pym, Phillips, the Clerk and Revd Richardson the Chairman. It was reported that a reply had been received from Chard R.D.C. about marking the road. The Clerk was asked to write to them about several leaking standpipes in the village. Cheques were signed for:
The first meeting of the New Year was on 2nd February. Present were Mr Warren (Chairman), Messrs Appleby, Phillips, Pym and the Clerk. The Council agreed to the planting of a hedge in the Recreation Ground, the felling of some apple trees there subject to the approval of Sir George Davies and to a request from Chard R.D.C. to lay water and sewage pipes within the area.
The Statutory Meeting of the Parish Council was held on 28th March. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr J Warren Vice Chairman. Members present were Messrs Appleby, Perry, Phillips, Florey, Warren and the Clerk. A letter was read from Chard R.D.C. thanking Winsham Parish Council for giving up a portion of the Allotment Ground for housing. Various routine cheques were signed.
The Council met on 27th June. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about a shortage of water in Church Street and Court Street. It was agreed to raise the charge for digging a grave from fifteen shillings to one pound subject to the approval of the Ministry of Health. It was decided to post up rules governing the use of the Recreation Ground. Routine cheques were signed.
On 26th August the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Council was asked by Chard R.D.C. to recommend four tenants for the new council houses. Nominations were Mr E. Perrot of Fore Street, Mr R. Spurdle of Fore Street, Mr R. Singleton from Church Street and Mr Down of Church Street or Mr Bevis from Malthouse. The Council agreed to the Young Men's Club hiring the Jubilee Hall for £5 per season. It was agreed that Messrs Phillips and Warren should form a deputation to complain to Chard R.D.C. about the water supply. A cheque was signed to pay Mr W. Spurdle £1:15:0d for work done in the Recreation Ground.
On 29th September the Council met. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read promising to investigate the complaints about the water supply and stating that a visit from a deputation would be unnecessary. It was reported that three of the Councils recommendations as suitable tenants for the council houses had been accepted. However Chard R.D.C. felt that as Mr Down was not yet married preference should be given to Mr Bevis and Mr L. Dowell, both married men with families, who were living “in houses that are unsanitary”. It was reported that Messrs R.Spurdle, E.Perrott, R.Singleton and G.Bevis had moved in to the new homes. The Clerk informed the meeting that more allotments would be required for housing and he was asked to inform the present tenants.
On 10th November the Council met with Mr Appleby acting as Chairman. It was agreed that a letter from the Ministry of Health about any increase in grave digging charges should be discussed at the Annual Parish Meeting in March. The Clerk was asked to obtain more details from Chard R.D.C. about the extension to the water scheme and to apply for the removal of the standpipe outside Mr Mildon's shop. Mr Phillips agreed to get an estimate for improvements to the lighting in the Jubilee Hall. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 28th November the Council met. Revd Richardson chaired this meeting. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read giving details of the new water reservoir. It stated that the cost would be met from the general rate for the whole district with a contribution of one third from the County Council. A tender from Chard Motor Supply for improving the lighting in the Jubilee Hall was accepted. The Council decided to charge five shillings for each A.R.P. meeting in the Jubilee Hall. Consent was given to South Somerset Electricity Company to erect two poles in the Recreation Ground. It was agreed to pay off the loan on the Cemetery Ground to the Westminster Bank Chard.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 9th February in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Council decided to arrange the reopening of the Jubilee Hall for Easter Monday .It also decided to delay discussion about the Coronation and the building of a new school in Chard until the Annual Parish Meeting. A precept for £25 was signed. Payments were authorised for:
The Parish Council met on 1st March in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. A letter was read from Mr Morgan offering, on behalf of Sir George Davies M.P., an acre of ground for a Recreation Field. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Morgan accepting this most generous offer. A proposed change to the bus timetable was discussed and it was agreed that the matter should be raised at the Annual Parish Meeting. The Council granted permission for a vase to be installed on the grave of the late Alfred Budge.
The Statutory Meeting of the Parish Council took place on 22nd March. The newly elected Council was made up of Revd Richardson (Chairman), Mr Warren (Vice Chairman), Messrs Appleby, Pym, Perry, Florey, Phillips and the Clerk. Messrs Appleby and Perry were elected School Managers. Payments were made to:
On 20th May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The meeting began with a vote of sympathy being expressed to the widow of the late Mr Pym. The Chairman was asked to write to Mrs Pym expressing the sympathy of the Parish Council and its appreciation of Mr Pym's service as a Parish Councillor over many years. The Council discussed the danger of crossing the road at Whatley Cross. It was agreed that the Clerk should apply for a Halt Sign to be erected there. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Churchill with a request to repair the gates in the pathway across Ammerham Fields.
There was a brief meeting of the Parish Council on 23rd June chaired by Revd Richardson. The Sanitary Inspector attended in order to explain the proposed extension to the present sewage pit. The plan was approved. A number of routine cheques were signed.
The first meeting of the Autumn was held on 6th September. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. It was reported that the footpath across Ammerham Fields was being obstructed by barbed wire being put over the stiles .The Council agreed to have it removed. The Clerk was asked to get Mr Loaring to repair the Recreation Ground wall. The Council granted permission to Messrs Appleby and Childs to erect skirting around the grave of the late Mr Alfred Budge. Routine cheques were signed. On 6 October the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Council endorsed a letter from Chard R.D.C. proposing a Refuse Collection Scheme. A second letter from a Mr Adcock was then discussed. He was writing on behalf of the Winsham Flower Show questioning the charges being made for the use of the Jubilee Hall. After due consideration the Council decided to waive any charges “in consideration of the generous gift of the Committee to the Jubilee Hall”. The Clerk reported that Mr Beer, Caretaker of the Recreation Ground, had resigned. The Council agreed not to replace him until the new part of the Recreation Ground was ready. Routine cheques were signed.
On 11th November the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Clerk was asked to get Mr Loaring to repair the gates leading to the Cemetery. Permission was granted for headstones and skirting to be erected on the graves of the late Mr V Hellins (?) Paul’s Ash and Mr H Rowe Grange Thorncombe and lettering on the grave of the late Miss Grinstead.
There was a Special Meeting of the Council on 22nd December in the Jubilee Hall chaired by Revd Richardson. The Draft Conveyance of a parcel of land of 1.339 acres to provide an extension to the present Recreation Ground was read out. The land, currently owned by Chard R.D.C., was to be bought by Sir George Davies M.P. and then donated by him to Winsham Parish Council. After due discussion the Council approved the draft. “It was proposed by the Chairman Revd Richardson and seconded by Mr J Phillips and carried unanimously that the thanks of the Parish Council be given to Sir George Davies M.P. for his generous gift”.
The final meeting of the Year was on 29th December. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. The minutes of the last meeting and the special meeting were approved. Cheques were signed for:
The first meeting of the New Year was on 7th January. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. Apart from the signing of routine cheques little business was done except the reporting to Chard R.D.C. of the flooding of properties at Malthouse.
The Council next met on 28th February in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson in the Chair. A letter from the Surveyor of Chard R.D.C. was read stating that the flooding at Malthouse was not a matter for them to resolve. The application to erect headstones on the graves of James Good and Henry Paull was granted. The Council decided to apply for £50 from the R.D.C. Assessment Committee for the coming financial year .It also agreed to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on 16 March.
The Statutory Meeting took place on 23th March. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Appleby Vice Chairman. Others present were Messrs Perry, Phillips, Florey, Pym and the Clerk. The Council agreed a plan of work to improve the Recreation Ground by painting the swings with the help of the Caretaker, Mr Beer. They also agreed that the trees on Park Lane should be felled, as they pose a danger to traffic. This opinion contradicted that of Dorset County Council which suggested fixing reflectors to them. Various routine cheques were signed.
The Council met on 11th May. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. A letter from Dorset County Council was read and it was agreed that no further action would be taken over the trees on Park Lane. The Clerk was asked to draw Mr Morgan’s attention to a complaint about the fence on Lee Lane footpath. The Council authorised the erection of headstones on the graves of the late Mr Loaring and Herbert Gill. Routine cheques were signed.
On 22nd June the Council met. Revd Richardson was Chairman. Others present were Messrs Perry, Warren, Pym, Phillips, Florey and Appleby, not forgetting the Clerk. A letter was read from Mr Morgan stating that he would install easy steps on the stiles on the Lee Lane footpath. The Council welcomed this offer. The Chairman agreed to ask Chard R.D.C. for a notice board at the refuse dump.
On 22nd September the Council met. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. The meeting decided to write to Dorset County Council about the trees in Park Lane. It was also agreed that Mr Loaring should do the necessary repairs in the Jubilee Hall and that Mr Churchill should lower the electric light in the kitchen. A precept of £30 was signed and various cheques were authorised. The Council decided that a list of charges for the use of the Hall should be displayed on the notice board.
On 10th November the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Clerk reported that no letter had been received from Dorset County Council about the trees in Park Lane. As no reflectors had been fitted the Clerk was asked to contact the Council as a matter of urgency. Members were delighted by the announcement that Mr Hall of Cricket St Thomas had offered to pay for the renovation and alterations to the Jubilee Hall. The Chairman undertook to thank Mr Hall personally for his generosity. A variety of cheques were signed.
The last meting of the year was on 23rd December. Revd Richardson was Chairman. He reported that he had written to Mr Hall and he then suggested that Mrs Hall should be asked to reopen the Jubilee Hall when the work had been completed. He also thought that a plaque should be installed to record this generous gift. This was agreed. The usual routine cheques were signed and it was decided to write off the sum of £0:14:6d as irrecoverable (allotment rent due from Mr Butler).
The first meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall on 27 November .Those present were Revd Richardson (Chairman) and Messrs Perry, Pym, Warren, Florey, Appleby and the Clerk. A letter from the Performing Arts Society was discussed and it was agreed that the Clerk should write to them explaining the purposes for which the Hall is let. Payments agreed were:
The first meeting of the New Year was on 6th January in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Revd Richardson (Chairman), Messrs Bishop, Pym, Perry, Warren, Appleby, Florey and the Clerk. Mr Warren reported that work on the Recreation Ground Wall had been completed. The Chairman then proposed that there should be a Public Meeting later in the year to discuss Street Lighting. This was agreed. It was decided that the Band should pay five shillings for the use of the Jubilee Hall on 18 December. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 4th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Annual Parish Meeting was arranged for 21 March at which it was agreed the subject of the Allotments should be discussed. Cheques were signed for £2:19:9d(Somerset Electric Company), £3:15:0d(Income Tax), £8(Clerks Salary). The Council agreed that the Clerk should be paid half-yearly.
The Statutory Parish Council Meeting was held on 25th April. Revd Richardson was re-elected Chairman with Mr Pym Vice Chairman. It was reported that complaints had been received about boys playing football on the Recreation Ground. It was agreed that the Clerk should ask Mr Perrott to act as Caretaker. Mr Perry and Mr Pym agreed to get an estimate for repairing and relaying the Churchyard path. Various cheques were signed.
On 2nd June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Council agreed to appoint Mr J.Perrot of West Street as Caretaker of the Recreation Ground at the salary of thirty shillings a year from 25 March 1933.A letter was read from Mrs Ewins (?) complaining about a broken gate in one of the fields towards Ammerham. Responsibility for its repair was discussed and it was agreed to consult Chard R.D.C. In the meantime the Clerk was asked to get Mr Churchill to repair it. The Chairman offered to contact Mr Jim Long about getting on with repairing the Churchyard path and a vault. His offer was accepted. The Council agreed to recommend Messrs Grabham, Down, Clark and March to Chard R.D.C. for the new Council Houses.
On 24th July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. He explained to the members that the Parish Council was responsible for the repair of the gate raised at the last meeting. The Clerk was asked to arrange for Mr Loaring to repair the roof of the Jubilee Hall kitchen.
On 25th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. There was a discussion about the comments made in the Audit about the management of the Cemetery and in particular the Register of Purchased Graves, Certificates of Grants of Rights and a Cemetery Plan. The Chairman agreed to investigate the problem and to report back at the next meeting. The Clerk was asked to chase the arrears in Allotment rents. It was agreed that Mr Bridle should be asked to clean the vacant allotments. The Council decided that the Young Men’s Club members should pay one shilling a month each to use the Hall four nights a week. The Clerk was asked to convey by letter the sympathy of the Council to Mrs Northcombe following the death of her husband Mr Walter Northcombe. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 13th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. He opened the meeting by giving the results of his investigations following the audit. The Clerk was asked to purchase the necessary stationery to put matters in order. This amounted to a Register Book of Purchased Graves, a Book of Certificates of Grants of Rights and a Cemetery Plan. The Clerk was asked to speak to Mr Clark about the state of the Village Dump and Mr Appleby agreed to see Mrs Phillips about the Parish giving up part of the Allotments Field. A request from the Hospital Committee to use the Jubilee Hall kitchen for about half an hour a week was agreed at a nominal rent of £0:2:6d a year.
A Special Meeting of the Parish Council was held on 30th November in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The purpose of this meeting was to be told of the plans for a new Water Scheme for Winsham. Chard R.D.C. was represented by Mr Adcock, its Chairman, and Mr J.Dommett. The details of the scheme were that the water would come to Court Street from Paul’s Ash Farm, owned by Mr J.Warren, via Broadenham Fields and Malthouse Lane. After a long discussion it was agreed that the water should be brought to Fore Street rather than to Court Street. This new route would be via Ebben Lane and Mr Caters field. The higher area of Fore Street would ensure a good supply for the whole village. Mr Adcock and Mr Dommett were thanked for their visit. The Clerk was asked to place a notice on the Jubilee Hall Notice Board asking for those villagers wanting help from the Winsham Charity Fund to apply by 13 December 1933.
There was a Parish Council Meeting on 14th January in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman .Mr Joe Cross acted as Clerk for the first time. Others present were Messrs Warren, Pym, Perry and Bishop. Mr Perry proposed and the Chairman seconded that “the best thanks of the Council be given to Mr Warren and Mr Pym for their work in connection with the Dump”. The Council agreed to buy a stove for the Jubilee Hall and cheques were signed for Mr Robbins£1:8:0d (for coal) and for Mr Northcombe £1:16:5d (£1:5:6d Fire Insurance, £0:10:11d Workman’s Compensation). A Deputation from the Boys Club negotiated to use the Jubilee Hall four evenings a week on the understanding that they pay half of each member’s monthly subscription. This was to start on 1 February and was to last the season.
On 25th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. It was reported that a new stove had been bought for the Jubilee Hall for £4 and that a complaint had been made about the village water. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. to investigate this. The Clerk was also asked to write to Mr Geoffrey Roper asking him to alert Dorset R.D.C. to the state of Park Lane.
On 23rd March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. The main business concerned the Recreation Ground. It was agreed to:
Afterwards the Council agreed that Mr Bishop should be asked to plough the vacant allotment. A cheque was signed for £3:15:0d for Income Tax on the Jubilee Hall.
The Statutory Council Meeting was on 18th April. Present were Revd Richardson, Messrs F.Perry, G.Bishop, Appleby, Florey, Warren and the Clerk. Revd Richardson was re-elected Chairman. It was reported that the maintenance work on the Recreation Ground was in hand .The Clerk spoke of the poor state of the allotments and of the arrears in rent. He was asked to take “all necessary steps” to collect these arrears. Various routine cheques were signed.
The Council met on 20th May in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. There was a discussion about the allotments at the end of which the Council decided to offer back half an acre to the owner Mrs Phillips and to write off the rent arrears of Messrs G.Bishop, G.Phelps and Paul. In other cases the Clerk was asked to take recovery action. The Clerk drew attention to the omission from the minutes of the last Council Meeting of his agreed salary of £8 per annum. This was duly noted. Cheques were signed for:
Mr Northcombe £9 Salary and Sundry Payments
Somerset Electricity Company £1:2:3d
Chard R.D.C. Rates £2:5:0d
Harrington and Co Chard £0:14:0d
J.Cross £3:14:4d (Audit Stamps £2,Car Fares £0:13:0d,Papers
£0:7:4d,Rubber Stamps and Pad £0:6:6d,Stamps and Stationary £0:7:6d)
On 4th July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Clerk reported on his dealings with Mrs Phillips over the allotments and the Council agreed to ask Mr C. Lawrence to cut the grass on the vacant ones. It was reported that the Caretaker of the Cemetery had requested new grave planks and webbing. The Council agreed to buy both. The Chairman was granted permission by the Council to open the pathway in the Churchyard in order to lay underground cables for the lighting of the Church. Mr Bishop proposed a vote of condolence to Mrs Loaring on the death of her husband Mr Thomas Loaring, a former Chairman of Winsham Parish Council. This was carried unanimously.
On 5th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Messrs Appleby, Bishop, Florey and the Clerk attended with Revd Richardson as Chairman. A letter was read from Mr Phillips saying that Mrs Phillips would be unwilling to take back part of the allotments but would take back the whole under the terms of the “ Original Agreement” between the late Charles Phillips and the Parish Council. The Council decided to hold a Special Meeting on 19 September to decide what to do about this, the Recreation Ground and the use of the Jubilee Hall by the Boys Club. Cheques were signed for a number of expenses .One was for Mr J. Loaring for new oak gates for the Churchyard for £3:7:6d.
The Special Meeting planned for 19th September took place with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Council decided to obtain a copy of the Allotment Tenancy Agreement before getting in touch with Mrs Phillips again and to ask Mr C. Lawrence to cut the grass on the vacant allotments for five shillings. The Clerk was asked to see Mr W.Paul to find out if he would become the Caretaker for the Recreation Ground. The subject of the Boys Club was left to the next meeting arranged for 26 September.
Rev. Richardson chaired this next meeting (26th September) in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Messrs Warren, Bishop, Pym, Appleby, Perry, Florey and the Clerk. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to County Council to obtain a copy of the Original Allotment Agreement and that Mr James Loaring should be asked to repair the Recreation Ground wall. The Clerk also undertook to ask Mr George Clark to tidy the Village Dump. The subject of the Boys Club was raised again and the Council decided to invite the Club Members to a meeting at a time to be arranged! A precept of £30 was signed.
On 26th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. He agreed to investigate the cost of providing electric street lighting in the village following a request from Mrs Pyne. The Council decided to pay Mr George Clark £1:12:0d for work done at the Village Dump.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 7th January in the Jubilee Hall. The Chairman, Revd Richardson, told the members that he had received a letter from Major Davies complaining about the state of the Recreation Ground. The Council was told that the notice prohibiting ball games had been removed and that the turf was being damaged by the young lads playing football. The Clerk was told to police the area to prevent this continuing. The Chairman said that Major Davies would be prepared to buy the lower part of Mr Phillips field to provide a sports area if Mr Phillips was willing to sell it. The Council agreed to find out. Mr Northcombe missed this meeting and the one held on 23 January in the Schoolroom chaired by Revd Richardson. At this meeting the Chairman reported that he had received an anonymous gift of £15 towards the cost of the Jubilee Hall repairs and that he had written to Mrs Hall seeking her help to reduce the debt. The Council decided to hold a Whist Drive and Dance to raise further money. The Chairman called a further meeting for 27th January to make the necessary arrangements for the Whist Drive and Dance on 6 February.
On 8th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. He gave an update on the profit made on the Whist Drive and Dance. The Council decided to ask Mr Smart to mark out some flowerbeds on the Recreation Ground as a way of stopping the youngsters from playing football there.
On 23th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall .Mr Northcombe was back as Clerk and wrote the minutes. Revd Richardson was Chairman. Some routine cheques were signed and there was a discussion about the flowerbeds planned for the Recreation Ground.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 15th April. Present were Revd Richardson, F. Perry, G.Bishop, C.S. Appleby, J.Pym, J.Warren and the Clerk. Mr Florey sent an apology for non-attendance owing to illness. Revd Richardson was re-elected Chairman with Mr J. Warren Vice Chairman. Mr G. Bishop and Mr J. Pym were chosen as School Representatives and Revd Richardson and Mr Warren as Representatives on the Rural District Council for Rating Purposes. Mr C. S. Appleby and Mr J. Pym were re-elected Trustees of the Charity. A Precept of £20 was signed, £14 for the Burial Board and £6 for the Parish Council. It was agreed to reduce the rent for Allotments from fifteen shillings to fourteen shillings a year. The Council decided to create three flowerbeds in the Recreation Ground and Mr Pym was authorised to get roses for one of the beds. It was also agreed to erect lattice wire just over two feet high around the bed of roses.
The Council met on 1st May in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Revd Richardson (Chairman), Messrs G.Bishop, C. Appleby, J.Pym and the Clerk. An apology for non-attendance was read from Mr Florey through illness. Cheques were signed for Messrs Clarke and Watts on the Jubilee Hall Account for £10:17:1d and for repairs to the Jubilee Hall chairs for £1:15:0d.The Clerk was asked to see whether Mr Clarke would allow the old “ Lyme Kiln” to be used as a rubbish dump. It was agreed to allow Mr Cooper to use the Jubilee Hall for his band to practice, one shilling a night without the piano, two shillings and sixpence with the piano.
On 12th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Clerk was asked to put up notices asking for someone to collect rubbish in the village. The Chairman agreed to write to the Police Authorities at Chard about having a policeman stationed in Winsham. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 21st June Mr Pym chaired the Council Meeting in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson and the Clerk were chosen to attend the Assessment Committee at Chard Union on 14th July to appeal against the assessment of the Jubilee Hall. The Council agreed to write to Chard R.D.C. and to Shepton Beauchamp Parish Council about the collection of rubbish. The Clerk agreed to ask Mr Fred Paul to put his allotment in order. He also agreed to ask Mr Loaring to give an estimate for building a shed for the bier behind the Jubilee Hall and to make a Parish Council Notice Board for the Jubilee Hall wall.
On 27th July Revd Richardson chaired a meeting of the Parish Council in the Jubilee Hall. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. for permission to have a Village Dump in Mr Wheaton’s field on Western Way. The cost of collecting rubbish was discussed. Cheques were signed for £0:12:6d to Mr Pym for roses for the Recreation Ground and for £5:14:8d for rates. Mr Northcombe reported that the Assessment Committee had refused to alter the assessment of the Jubilee Hall. The Clerk was asked to write to Messrs Andrews, Bishop and Paull about their allotments being kept in proper order. He was also asked to see Mr Loaring to get him to repair the Churchyard gates and to “make the place in the Cemetery suitable for storing the bier”. The Council agreed to have the Jubilee Hall lit by electric light.
On 14th August the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr C. S. Appleby was Chairman. It was reported that Mr Paull had attended to his allotment but that those belonging to Messrs Andrews and Bishop had not been touched. The Council agreed to have the swings in the Recreation Ground re-painted and to ask Mr Loaring to erect the Notice Board outside the Jubilee Hall as soon as possible. There was a long discussion about housing in the village, the only house not being occupied being the one formerly occupied by the Police. It was agreed to place the notice received from Chard R.D.C. about housing in the Jubilee Hall window asking for any applications by 18 August.
Revd Richardson chaired the Parish Council Meeting on 11th September in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Messrs C. Bishop, F. Perry, C. S. Appleby, J. Florey, J.Warren and the Clerk. The Chairman agreed to write to the Police Authorities about a Police Constable for Winsham and the Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the Village Dump. He also undertook to contact the Electric Company about the lighting of the Jubilee Hall.
On 14th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. A letter was read from Mr Manning offering to become the new Clerk but for a salary of £10 per year rather than the £5 being offered. (This is the first indication in the Minutes that Mr Northcombe intended to resign). The Council agreed to advertise the job at £8 per annum in the hope of attracting other applicants. Cheques were signed for Mr Grabham £1:5:0d (Two graves, one costing fifteen shillings, the other ten shillings), Mr Gawler for Rates £2:8:4d and the Electricity Company £10:15:0d.
The Council met in the Jubilee Hall at 7pm on 16th November. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Chairman read letters he had received from MrA.R.J.Dommett, Clerk to Chard R.D.C. refusing to allow Mrs Wheaton permission to have a Village Dump on part of her land. Mr Warren and Mr Pym agreed to see Mrs Wheaton at Axminster. If their visit was unsuccessful it was thought that Mr Adcock would provide a place. Mr Perry proposed and Mr Bishop seconded that Mr Joe Cross be appointed Clerk to the Council, his duties to start on 1 January 1932.The Council agreed to pay Mr Peacocks bill for repairs to the Recreation Ground for £2:19:10d.The Clerk was asked to write to Beaminster R.D.C. about the state of Park Lane, Ford Abbey.
The Meeting on 27th November was in the Schoolroom. Revd Richardson was Chairman. It was reported that Mr Adcock had agreed to provide a site for the Village Dump. Messrs Pym, Warren and Perry consented to help organise it. The last meeting of the year was on 18 December in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. The Clerk was asked to see Mr Paul about his behaviour at Whist Drives and Dances. Various routine cheques were signed. This was the last meeting attended by Mr Northcombe as Clerk to Winsham Parish Council. He had been the Clerk since the Councils first meeting on 13 December 1894. The original minutes of the meeting on 18 December contain this tribute by the Chairman:
“This being the last meeting of the Council at which Mr Northcombe would be present as Clerk, the Chairman said he would like it to be placed on the minutes, and he was sure the other members of the Committee would be of the same opinion, that the Council was very sorry to part with Mr Northcombe after so many years faithful service, and they, one and all, felt that they were losing an excellent Clerk and a true and trusted friend from their meetings.”
Carried Unanimously
F.D.Richardson.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 21st February in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. Others present were Messrs J.Warren, C. Bishop, C. S. Appleby and the Clerk. A letter was read from Mr B. Cross asking whether the Parish Field could be let to Mr Cribb, the new owner of Maudlin Farm. The Council decided that the Chairman, Mr Bishop and Mr Warren should visit the field before a decision could be made. It was agreed to let the Jubilee Hall for Dress Making on Mondays for eight weeks at two shillings and six pence per week. It was also decided to charge outsiders more for the use of the Hall than local people. The Clerk agreed to ask Mr Churchill to repair the kitchen grate in the Hall. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 14th March the Council again met in the Jubilee Hall. There was a long discussion about the Parish Meadow, its fencing, gates, rent and fishing rights. It was agreed that the Chairman, Mr Pym and Mr Warren should see Mr Cross, the tenant, on 17 March at 10 am. A letter was read concerning the guarantee on the Telephone Call Office as from 1 July 1929.The amount due from the Parish Council from 20 March to 30 June was £3:16:6d. A Precept for £20 to cover expenses until 30 September was agreed, £14 being for the Burial Board and £6 for the Parish Council. The Council decided not to purchase the Allotment Ground (no details are given in the minutes).
There was a Special Meeting in the Jubilee Hall on 16th March after the Annual Parish Meeting. Revd Richardson was Chairman. Present were Messrs C. S. Appleby, F. Perry, C. Bishop, J.Pym and the Clerk. Cheques were agreed for Mr Grabham for £1:5:0d for two graves and for £2:10:7d for the Clerk (Sexton £0:7:6d,Minister £0:9:0d,Postage and Stationery £0:3:9d,Coal £1:10:4d). It was reported that the Trustees had visited the Parish Meadow, had agreed the necessary improvements, and would visit again.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 25th April. Present were Revd Richardson, Messrs C.S.Appleby, C. Bishop, F.Perry, J.Pym, J.Warren, and the Clerk. Revd Richardson was elected as Chairman with Mr Warren as Vice Chairman. The Chairman then gave a report on his visit to the Parish Meadow with Mr Pym and Mr Warren. They had met Mr Cribb the owner of Maudlin Farm who had offered £5 rent to include the Fishing Rights. After a long discussion the Council decided to see Mr S.Dommett of Hey Farm to hear if he would pay a higher rent. Mr Bishop suggested advertising .The Trustees agreed to pay Mr Grabham £4 for cutting the alders and bushes. The Council also agreed that Mr Martin should have the vacant allotment free of charge for the season as he had had to clear it before use. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr W. Paull, Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall, about the management of the Whist Drives and Dances. It was reported that the notice on the Recreation Ground about ball games had been obliterated. Apologies were received from Mr Perry and Mr Fowler who were unwell. Revd Richardson chaired the meeting. The Council decided to accept the tender from Messrs Clarke and Watts for the Jubilee Hall and Cottage repairs. They also agreed to let the Parish Meadow to Mr B. Wheaton for £4 to Xmas 1930 and after that for £6 per annum. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the tidiness of the street and about a drainage problem in Poole’s Lane. He was also asked to write to Mr Herbert Wheaton “to know if he had a spot that could be used for a Dumping Place”.
On 23rd September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. There was a long discussion over how the cost of the repairs to the Jubilee Hall and Cottage should be met. It was agreed that appeals should be made for subscriptions towards the expense. It was reported that the Village Cross had been badly damaged by a car. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about it.
On 28th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. It was agreed to launch an appeal to help towards the cost of the repairs to the Jubilee Hall and Cottage. These repairs had been completed satisfactorily. “The Chairman wished it to be noted in the Parish Council Minutes that the Deed referring to Holsworthys Charity was in the old Baptismal Register kept at the Vicarage. The Vicar then read abstracts from the deed which were very interesting”.
There was a short Council Meeting on 11th November at which it was reported that the Jubilee Hall Appeal had gone well. Revd Richardson chaired this meeting.
The last meeting of the year was on 29th December in the Jubilee Hall. It was chaired by Revd Richardson who also wrote up the minutes. Various routine cheques were signed and it was agreed to pay Messrs Clarke and Watts bill as soon as it was received.
The Council met in the Jubilee Hall on 23th March, Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr J.H. Boait asking him to repair the damage done to the War Memorial by his motorcar! Cheques were authorised for the following:
Mr Grabham (Caretaker of the Cemetery) Salary £3,Graves £1:10:0d.
Mrs Robbins Coal for the Jubilee Hall £1:12:7d
Water Rates £0:8:8d
Income Tax Jubilee Hall £0:12:0d
Mr Loaring Repairs to Jubilee Hall £0:17:0d
Mr Paull (Jubilee Hall Caretaker) Salary, 13 weeks at six Shillings a week £3:18:0d and 26 weeks Reading Room Duties at two shillings a week £2:12:0d.
Mr Northcombe Salary £5 plus Ministers Fees £0:9:0d and Sextons Fees £0:10:0d
The Council met on 20th April but with only two Councilors present it was adjourned to 24 April. This was the Statutory Meeting. Present were Revd F.D.Richardson, C.S.Appleby, G.Bishop, J.Pym, F.Perry, J.Warren and the Clerk. Revd Richardson was re-elected Chairman with Mr Warren as Vice Chairman. Precepts were signed for £14 for Burial Board Expenses and for £6 for Parish Council General Expenses. Mr J Pym and Mr C.S.Appleby were re- appointed Charity Trustees.
On 3rd May a Special Meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall to elect a Treasurer as Mr Oxley had resigned. It was agreed to appoint Mr R. Spring, Manager of the Westminster Bank, to fill the vacancy. The Council then visited the Recreation Ground and agreed to erect Notice Boards and to repair the roadside hedge.
On 8th May another Special Meeting was held, this time at the Recreation Ground. Revd Richardson took charge. The Council decided that the Notice Board should go on the Eastern side of the Ground and that barbed wire should be put on the roadside boundary. It was also agreed that Mr W. Spurdle should be asked to dig up the sand in the pit used by the children. Mr Perry agreed to find posts to support the rose trees on the southern side of the Cemetery.
On 14th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Revd Richardson (Chairman), Messrs C.S.Appleby, F.Perry, F.B.Fowler, J.Pym and the Clerk. Various routine cheques were signed. One was written to Mr Ridgway for piano tuning. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the unsatisfactory water supply to the Western Way Cottages.
Revd Richardson chaired the Council Meeting held on 11th September in the Jubilee Hall. Routine cheques were signed and Precepts for £16 for the Burial Board and £14 for Parish Council General Expenses agreed. Improvements to the Churchyard path were agreed and the Council decided to ask Mr Loaring to repair the Churchyard gate. On 5 October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. Decisions made were that:
1. Mr Grabham should be asked to tidy around the War Memorial.
2.Mr Loaring should be asked about the Recreation Ground Notice Board.
3. The repairs to the Churchyard path should be done when the new Vestry is finished.
4.An Appeal against the Rate on the Jubilee Hall should be made.
There was a Meeting on 10th December in the Jubilee Hall. Mr J.Pym acted as Chairman with few members present. Apart from approving routine cheques the Council decided to leave other business to a larger gathering.
The final Meetings of the Year were on 14th and 21th December when arrangements were made for a testimonial for Mr R.F.Sylvester on his retirement as Sub Postmaster of Winsham.
A Special Meeting was held on 31st January in the Jubilee Hall to meet Major Davies M. P. Those present were Revd Richardson (Chairman), Messrs F. Perry, G.Bishop, F.B.Fowler, J.Pym, J.Warren and the Clerk. The purpose of the meeting was to hear of the generous offer made by Major Davies to give land to the village for a Recreation Ground. A vote of thanks for “ his thoughtful and generous gift to the Village” was proposed by Mr Fowler and seconded by Mr Warren. Major Davies then asked the Council for permission to lower the wall at the back of the War Memorial “to make it more in conformity with the proposed Recreation Ground”. This was agreed. The Council decided that the Chairman, Mr Bishop and Mr Warren, as a small Committee, should see how much turf could be taken from the Cemetery paths for use in creating the Recreation Ground. Routine cheques were signed.
The next Council Meeting was on 23th March in the Jubilee Hall. It was reported that 1000 privet bushes had been ordered from Messrs Jarman and Co. and that Mr C Beer had planted most of them on the Western Railings, the others are to be planted on the Eastern Side. Rambler roses had been planted by Revd Richardson on the Southern Side and it was agreed that Mr Bishop should be asked to “make up” the paths as required. On another subject, the Council decided to sanction the Postmaster leaving earlier on Saturday afternoons. Revd Richardson chaired this meeting. The Statutory Meeting of the Parish Council was held on 19 April in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was re elected Chairman with Mr C. S. Appleby Vice Chairman. Messrs G.Bishop and F. Perry were re appointed School Managers and Messrs J.Pym and F. Perry were appointed Charity Trustees. Cheques were agreed for:
Mr Spurdle £13:1:2d (Making paths in the Cemetery)
Mr C.Beer £1:15:0d (Planting privet bushes and fixing lattice wire to Cemetery railings)
Mr Phillips £10 (Allotments Rent)
Messrs Jarman and Co. £6:5:0d (Privet bushes)
Mr Paull £5:4:0d (Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall)
Mr Northcombe £0:19:9d (Sexton £0:2:6d,Minister £0:2:6d,Jubilee Hall Rates £0:10:9d,
Allotments £0:4:0d).
Mr Pym queried the rent being paid by Mr Cross of Maudlin Farm for the Parish Meadow. The Clerk agreed to do the necessary research in time for the next meeting.
The first meeting of the summer was held in the Jubilee Hall Cottage on 18th May with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. There was a discussion about the Parish Field and Mr Pym “intimated his intention of visiting the field”. The Deed of Conveyance of the new Recreation Ground was read, approved and signed. It was reported that Major Davies would open the Ground on Whit Monday at 7pm and it was agreed that the Chairman should move a vote of thanks to him for his kindness. Mr C.S. Appleby would second this. A provisional programme was arranged as follows:
The Council members then visited the Cemetery and were pleased with the great improvement made by the gravel paths. They agreed to ask Mr Grabham to cut the grass in both the Cemetery and Churchyard.
On 1st June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall Cottage .A cheque was signed for £3 to Mr R. Spurdle for gravel in the Cemetery and for re-tarring the Cemetery path. The Council agreed to the appointment of Mr Reginald Grabham as Caretaker of the Cemetery and Churchyard at a salary of £12 per year, both to be mown at least three times. Mr G. Bishop agreed to look after the Recreation Ground until other arrangements had been made. The Chairman said he would draw up rules to be used in the Recreation Ground.
On 29th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. Routine cheques were signed .The rules for the Recreation Ground were read and approved and it was agreed to give them a further month’s trial. The Clerk was asked to write to the Authorities asking if the telephone could be used at night and whether the Postman could have his half day on a Thursday instead of a Saturday.
A Special Meeting was called for 28th July at which Mr Appleby acted as Chairman. The Council agreed to apply to The Southern Railway again for a “Halt” at Winsham. A letter from the G.P.O. was read out .Its contents were as follows:
Post Office Taunton
12th July 1928
Sir,
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7 inst and to inform you that the question of the change of the Postman’s Half –Holiday is receiving attention.
With reference to the question of the Telephone service I have to explain that the Call-Office may be used at any time during the twenty four hours, provided there is some one on the Post Office premises to deal with the call, but that a disturbance fee of one shilling is charged outside the normal hours of public business which at Winsham are 9 am to 7pm on week days except Thursdays 9 am to 1pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 9am to 10:30 am.
I am Sir,
Your obedient servant
R. Brookes
Head Postmaster
W. Northcombe Esq.
On 11th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall Cottage. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. It was reported that the Postman’s Half –Holiday would be changed from a Saturday to a Thursday with effect from 30 August. It was agreed to hold a Parish Meeting on 21st September to grant money in connection with the Cemetery.
On 28th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall at 7.30 pm. Revd Richardson was Chairman. The Winter Opening Hours for the Jubilee Hall were agreed, four nights a week at three pence per week. Various bills were settled and Precepts were signed as agreed at the Parish Meeting on 21 September.
The last Meeting of the year was held in the Jubilee Hall Cottage on 14th December. Present were Revd Richardson (Chairman), Messrs C.S.Appleby (Vice Chairman), F.Perry, G.Bishop, J.Pym, J.Warren and the Clerk. Cheques were signed for:
Mr Grabham (Caretaker of the Cemetery) Salary £3 and Grave Digging £0:15:0d
Mr Northcombe Jubilee Hall Fire Insurance £1:5:6d and Workman’s Club Assn (Jubilee Hall Caretaker) £0:10:11d.
Messrs Appleby and Sons Burial Board £0:13:9d.
Jubilee Hall £0:19:11d
Recreation Ground £0:2:2d.
Mr Paul (Jubilee Hall Caretaker) £3:18:0d
It was reported that the lads in the Jubilee Hall Reading Room are not interested in table tennis. This followed an offer of a table by Mr Pym.The Financial Statement of the Parish Accounts was presented by the Clerk.
On 4th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson as Chairman. At the request of Chard R.D.C. the Parish Council was asked to select six people in order of merit from the applicants for the new houses. The choice was:
A complaint about the poor state of the road from Bridge to Forde Abbey Bridge was noted and the Chairman and the Clerk were appointed as representatives to act on the Rating Committee under the new Rating and Valuation Act. Routine cheques were signed and the Annual Parish Meeting was arranged for 28th March. This meeting heard that the road complained of had been repaired and that a Government Inspector had visited the village concerning the water supply .Mrs Phillips complained about the wire fencing between her field and the allotments .Mr Bishop agreed to organise the necessary repairs. The Chairman, Revd Richardson, undertook to write to Major Davies M.P. asking for the last collection of post to be an hour later.
An adjourned Annual Meeting was held on 29th April in the Jubilee Hall. The original on 22 April was delayed due to the small attendance. Present were Revd F. D. Richardson, Messrs C. S. Appleby, G.Bishop, F. Perry, J.Pym and the Clerk. Revd Richardson was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Bishop as Vice Chairman. Mr Warren had written to say that he wished to retire as Vice Chairman. Apologies were received from Mr Fowler and Mr Warren for not attending. “ A letter was read from Miss Singleton, daughter of the deceased Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall, thanking the Council for the time granted to her father and also asking for a reasonable time to make arrangements to clear away her goods.” The Council agreed to grant her until the end of May. Precepts were signed, £15 for General Expenses and £10 for Burial Expenses, both on the Rating Authority of Chard R.D.C. Cheques were signed to the Postmaster General for £15:17:7d(deficit on the Post Office Telephone Guarantee) and to Mr Phillips, £10 for rent on the Allotments to the end of March 1927.There was a long discussion about the poor maintenance of the Cemetery and Churchyard. It was agreed that the Clerk should speak to the Caretaker. The following letter was read from Major Davies M.P.
Leigh House,Chard
2 Apr 27
Dear Mr Northcombe
It gave me great pleasure to read your kind letter of March 30 conveying the thanks and appreciation of the Annual Parish Meeting for what I have tried to do for Winsham.
I do not need to assure you that I have always taken the greatest interest in all that affects the village and its people, and it is gratifying to know that they appreciate what I have tried to do.
Yours faithfully
George F Davies
Mr Northcombe - Clerk to the Parish Council Winsham
The Chairman told the Council of his efforts through Major Davies of trying to get a despatch of letters at 10am, one hour later in the morning, and 6pm, one hour later in the evening, instead of the present arrangement.
On 1st June the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Meeting was brief. Routine cheques were signed, Mr Manning was to be asked to remove his garage sign hanging over the War Memorial (!) and Miss Singleton had informed the Council that she would be leaving the Jubilee Hall on the second Sunday in June. She thanked the Council “ for the time granted to her father now deceased”.
The Council next met on 17th June with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was reported that Miss Singleton had left Jubilee Hall Cottage. It repairs to the property and for the Council to keep the cottage for its own use for a year. It was agreed to give the Temporary Caretaker notice to give up his appointment one month from 18 June but “to allow him the garden until his crops were ready to lift”. The Council decided to offer him three shillings per week for looking after the Hall in the summer and six shillings per week in the winter. Cheques were signed for:
Mr Robbins Salary as Caretaker of the Cemetery and Churchyard to 30 June £1:10:0d.
Grave for T.Singleton £0:15:0d
Grave for stillborn child of Mr Appleby £0:5:0d
Grave for Mr Stroud £0:15:0d
Coal for Jubilee Hall £0:13:11d
Messrs Salter and Stokes (Stakes for Allotments) £3
The first meeting of the Autumn was on 9 September in the Jubilee Hall chaired by Revd Richardson. In response to a list from Chard R.D.C. the Council selected four people as tenants for the new houses being built in West Street. They were:
Mr G.Martin
Mr Pennicard
Mr Wilfred Churchill
Mr F. Butler
It was agreed to ask Mr Robbins to tidy up the area around the War Memorial and send his bill to the Parish Council. The members then discussed ways of providing more protection from the weather in the Cemetery. It was agreed to meet at 7 pm on Friday 16 September at the War Memorial to examine the area around it and then to walk down to the Cemetery together.
At that meeting (16th September), it was agreed to ask Mr Alfred Phelps to repair the stones at the base of the Memorial and for Mr Robbins to clear the weeds. The Council also agreed to plant a privet and thorn hedge on the western side of the Cemetery to provide a windbreak, with rambling roses on the southern boundary. A letter from the Postal Authorities was discussed .It suggested that postmen should have a half day on Saturdays. The Council considered this idea to be unacceptable as it would mean no collection or delivery of post between 1.45 pm on Saturdays and 9 am on Mondays. A list of standpipes for the new water scheme was examined .It was endorsed apart from the one planned for outside the school. The Council thought that it should be on the other side of Church Street near the Bell Inn.
On 21st October the Council met at 7pm in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. A Deputation was received concerning the Jubilee Hall being used as a Reading Room and for Games etc. After a long discussion it was agreed to use the Hall on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings for the young men of 15 and over. Mr Paull, the Caretaker, would be in charge and each member would pay one penny each evening. A letter from Mr Ross, Clerk to Chard R.D.C. was read. It invited representatives from the Parish Council to a meeting in the school on 24 October to see the fire engine being tested.
The last meeting of the year was on 13th December. Revd Richardson acted as Chairman. Various cheques were signed including one for £2 for a theatrical licence for the Jubilee Hall for two years. The Clerk was asked to obtain prices for 500 privet bushes from Messrs Jarman and Co. and Messrs Scott for the Cemetery.
On 9th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. It was reported that the bier had arrived and would be inspected by The Chairman, Mr Bishop and the Clerk at 10 o’clock tomorrow morning. It was agreed that the charge for its use should be two shillings and six pence to parishioners and five shillings to others. Mr Appleby “had consented to house it in his Motor House”. A letter was read from Mr Ross, Clerk to Chard R.D.C. stating that the proposed rents for the new Council Houses were eight shillings per week for the Parlour Type and six shillings per week for the Non Parlour Type. After discussion the Council agreed with these rates. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the shocking state of the road from Winsham to Chard .It was considered to be dangerous in places. It was agreed that Mr Singleton should be requested again to vacate his cottage. There was a long discussion about the new Water Scheme for the village. Mr Fowler agreed to ask either Mr Ross or Mr Dommett to attend a meeting to explain it to Rate Payers. Cheques were signed to pay Mr Loaring £2:5:6d(Erecting Notice Boards in the Churchyard and Cemetery), Mr Paull, Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall, £2:8:0d, Mr Northcombe £3:16:5d (Audit Stamp £2,Workmans Club Assn. £0:10:11d,Jubilee Hall Fire Ins £1:5:6d). A Precept of £12 Burial Board expenses was signed. It was decided that the Women’s Institute and the Girl Guides should not pay for using the piano in the Jubilee Hall.
On 19th February there was a Special Meeting in the Jubilee Hall to discuss the new Water Scheme, the Council having received details from Chard R.D.C. It was agreed to invite Mr Ross, Clerk to Chard R.D.C. to attend
The Annual Parish Meeting on 5th March to answer public concerns. Mr Warren raised the subject of Mr Loaring's bill for the alterations to the doors in the Jubilee Hall. After discussion it was agreed that the Clerk should ask for a reduction of ten shillings. If agreed, the bill was then to be paid.
On 26th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Various cheques were signed, including one to Mr Loaring for £2:14:6d for the Jubilee Hall doors (!) and £1:9:6d for repairs to the turret. Revd Richardson’s loan of £12 towards the cost of the bier was settled. (The bier cost £27:10:6d- Revd Richardson loaned the balance of £15:10:6d to the Council, to be repaid in due course). It was decided to tell Mr Singleton of two vacant houses, one in Church Street and one in Court Street. Mr Warren suggested that Mr Singletons daughter should clean the Jubilee Hall as she lived there, thereby saving money. Applications for the new houses were scrutinised and the following recommendations made to Chard R.D.C.
Parlour Non-Parlour
Mr Newton ,Mr W. Spurdle,Mr Phelps, Mr Down,Mr R. Graham, Mr Down was willing to take either type of house.
The first Parish Council Meeting of the Summer was on 16th April in the Jubilee Hall. It was the Statutory Meeting. Present were Revd F. D. Richardson, Messrs C. S. Appleby, G.Bishop, F.B.Fowler, F. Perry, J.Pym, J.Warren and the Clerk. Revd Richardson was elected Chairman with Mr Warren as Vice Chairman. Messrs J.Pym and J.Warren were elected as Overseers for the ensuing year. A Precept of £25 was signed and it was agreed that the Chairman and Mr Appleby should obtain a cover for the bier. Cheques were signed for Mr Paull (Temporary Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall £2:8:0d), Mr Phillips (Rent for Allotments Ground £10) and Revd Richardson (Repayment of loan for Bier £15:6:0d). The Account due from Chard R.D.C. for the Telephone Guarantee was presented and it was agreed that an application should be made requesting that the telephone should be available from 7pm to 9am in cases of emergency such as fires or accidents.
The Council next met on 11th June, with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. Various cheques were signed including one to Mr Paull, still the temporary Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall. It was at this point that the Clerk was asked to write to Mr Singleton again about vacating the Caretakers cottage, particularly as the one at Laymore occupied by Mr Paull was suitable. He was also asked to write to Chard R.D.C. again about the shocking state of the road from Winsham to Chard. The Council decided to use Mr J.T.Loaring to carry out the necessary repairs to the Jubilee Hall floor.
On 14th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was Chairman. It was reported that the Winsham to Chard road had been repaired and that Mr Singleton had written to say that the cottage at Laymore was not suitable due to his poor health. After some discussion the Council decided to leave the matter in abeyance for the moment. Mr Fowler suggested that the Council should write to Major Davies M.P. thanking him for giving the site for the New Houses and also giving stone to improve their appearance. This was agreed unanimously. The Clerk was also asked to apply to Chard R.D.C. for the footpath between the School Corner and the Churchyard Wall to be tarred.
On 19th November a Special Meeting of the Council decided to approve an application from Mr Manning to install a petrol pump at his garage in Fore Street. Revd Richardson chaired this Meeting. Messrs Appleby, Perry and the Clerk were present.
The last meeting of the year was on 17th December in the Jubilee Hall. Revd Richardson was in charge. It was agreed to ask Mr Loaring to repair the window in the Jubilee Hall and for Miss Budge to hold a key to one of the cupboards in the Hall. A letter was read from Chard R.D.C. “ about the Clerks Salary after the Rating and Valuation came in to operation”. The Chairman agreed to write to the Clerk of Chard R.D.C.. Routine cheques were signed.
On 6th January the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Warren acting as Chairman, Mr Loaring being unwell. It was reported that repair work was being done at Watery Lane Ammerham and to the bridge leading from Chalkway to Purtington. The Council was told that the outside room at the Jubilee Hall had been tidied up and it was now thought that there was sufficient space for the Caretakers tools and for hats and coats in the same room. The Clerk announced that the Ministry of Health had approved the revised Burial Fees and their adoption was agreed. The accounts of the Jubilee Hall were presented and passed with £3:15:2d being paid in to the bank. A Precept for £18 on the Overseers was signed. Cheques were signed for Mr Robbins (Caretaker of the Cemetery) £4:10:0d- Salary £1:10:0d,Graves £3 and to the Clerk to pay The Minister £0:12:6d,The Sexton £0:12:6d,Jubilee Hall Fire Insurance £1:5:6d,Mr Singleton (Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall) £1:5:0d,Western Gazette £1:7:2d and Mr Robbins (Coal) £2:8:0d.Mr Wheaton agreed to give an oak post for a new gate to the rear entrance to the Jubilee Hall.
A Special Meeting was held on 6th February to formally adopt the new Table of Burial Fees.Mr Loaring did not attend due to illness. Those present were Messrs J.Warren (Chairman), F.B.Fowler, J.Pym and the Clerk.
On 12th March Mr Warren took charge again but in sad circumstances for Mr Loaring had written a letter of resignation due to ill health. It was proposed by Mr Fowler and seconded by Mr Bishop that the Clerk should write to Mr Loaring regretting that ill health had prevented him from continuing and expressing the Councils deep appreciation of his work while Chairman of the Council. This was carried unanimously. A number of cheques were signed before the meeting ended.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 17th April in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Revd F.D.Richardson, Messrs G.Bishop, F.Perry, C.S.Appleby, J.Pym, J.Warren and the Clerk. Mr F.B.Fowler was unable to attend. It was proposed by Mr Warren and seconded by Mr Bishop that Revd Richardson, Vicar of Winsham, be appointed Chairman of the Parish Council. This was approved by Mr Pym and through him by Mr Fowler. The resolution was carried unanimously. Proposed by Mr Appleby and seconded by Mr Bishop, Mr Warren was elected Vice Chairman. Messrs J.Warren and J.Pym were appointed Overseers for the ensuing year. “The following letter was read from the former Chairman Mr T.M.Loaring, it being agreed by the Council that the same should be entered in the minutes:
Winsham, Fore St
Mar 18 25
Dear Sirs,
I thank you very much for the kind letter received expressing your regret at my retirement from the P.Council through ill health, were it otherwise I should like to continue on the Council. I deeply appreciate your reference to my past services. I have always sought the best interest of the Parish, but I do not deserve such praise, I have only done my duty. I regret I have so poorly filled my place on the Council.
I struggled on as long as I could with difficulty until I was compelled to resign.
I would desire to record the courtesy and consideration with which I have been treated by the Council and Clerk.
Wishing you a good term of Office,
I remain,
Yours respectfully
T M Loaring
To Winsham P Council
It was proposed by Mr Bishop and seconded by Mr Warren that Messrs J.Pym and C.S.Appleby be appointed Trustees of Holsworthys Charity (Parish Meadow). All agreed this. Mr J.Warren and Mr G.Bishop were chosen as School Managers. The Clerk reported that the £6 Agricultural Hall Dividend had been received.
There was a Parish Council Meeting on 15th May in the Jubilee Hall. As Revd Richardson was unwell, Mr Warren took charge. The Clerk reported that “ he had interviewed the Assessor of Taxes (Mr Gawler) concerning reclaiming of Income Tax on Agricultural Hall Dividends and his reply was in the negative.” A letter was read from the Jubilee Hall Management Committee suggesting, “ that the present Caretaker is now past carrying out his duties and responsibilities.” After some discussion it was agreed to give the Caretaker notice on 24 June, the Clerk to inform him now “ so that he might look around and get another house”. The Clerk was also asked to inform the Caretaker not to order coal unless authorised to do so by the Management Committee. The Council agreed to buy a bier for use in the Cemetery. The Chairman and the Clerk agreed to investigate costs. A cheque for £10 to Mr Charles Phillips for the Allotment field rent was signed.
On 26th June the Council met with Revd Richardson acting as Chairman. The Clerk reported that notice had been given to Mr Singleton to terminate his duties as Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall and to give up possession of the house and garden on 29 September. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. complaining about the state of the roads in Winsham District. He was also asked to write to Mr Wheaton about the continuing use of the path across Barton Close by his wagons. (This was in breach of his signed agreement not to do so.) Various routine cheques were signed. The bill for alterations to the doors in the Jubilee Hall from Mr J.T.Loaring was thought to be too high. The Clerk was asked to return it for revision! The subject of the bier was discussed and it was decided to write for further details, in particular for one styled “Abyssinia”, with solid India rubber tyres in steel channels if possible.
The Revd Richardson chaired the meeting held on 18th September in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Messrs G.Bishop, F.B.Fowler, F.Perry, C.S.Appleby, J.Pym and the Clerk. A letter from Mr Wheaton was read and Mr Fowler agreed to see him and Mr Chick (the other Trustee) about use of the path across Barton Close. The Council agreed to buy a bier with India rubber tyres at an extra cost of £4:10:0d .Mr Appleby agreed to deal with the details. A complaint was discussed about the unsatisfactory sanitation in some cottages in Fore Street and of overcrowding there. The Council decided to refer this to the Sanitary Inspector.
On 25th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Revd Richardson in charge. A letter was read from the Sanitary Inspector, Mr Curtis, saying that every thing was satisfactory in Fore Street. There then followed a long discussion about a letter from Chard R.D.C.It proposed supplying the four new houses being built and the Police House with mains water. The Council decided that such an idea would be unfair to the older inhabitants. A proposal made by Mr Bishop and seconded by Mr Pym that standpipes should be erected at the end of the Jubilee Hall wall and adjoining the Police Station was carried unanimously. A proposal by the Jubilee Hall Committee to buy a billiard table was rejected by the Council. Members were of the opinion that a table would take up too much room and would therefore interfere with other activities.
The last meeting of the Year was on 16th December at 7pm in the Jubilee Hall.Revd Richardson was Chairman. At the start of the meeting he offered to advance £12, interest free until April, to the Parish in order to buy the bier straight away. This was accepted and the bier ordered by the Clerk. The Chairman, Mr Bishop and the Clerk were appointed as a small Committee to find the best means of erecting a shed to house the bier at the back of the Jubilee Hall.
A letter was read from the Jubilee Hall Management Committee, in answer to the Councils refusal to sanction the purchase of a Billiard Table for the Jubilee Hall, in which they formally resigned. The Council expressed regret at their decision and thanked them for all they had done for the Jubilee Hall for which they deserved great credit. It was noted that Mr Singleton had not yet left the Caretakers House. It was agreed to terminate the temporary Caretakers duties on 31 December and to make other arrangements.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 11th January in the Jubilee Hall, chaired by Mr Loaring. Various financial matters were dealt with and the Clerk reported that the Boxing Day Whist Drive and Dance had raised £9 for the Jubilee Hall Account. The following letter was read out from Southern Railway:
Dear Sir,
With reference to your letter received on the 12 ultimo in regard to the provision of a railway station in order to secure the district of Winsham. The matter has been carefully considered and I have to inform you that in the absence of any guarantee that the erection of such a station would from the Company’s point of view be a paying proposition it is not possible to favourably consider the proposal.
Yours faithfully
H.A.Walker.
A Special Meeting was held on 17th January to consider suggestions on the future management of the Jubilee Hall. A long discussion ensued, the result of which was that the Council accepted the suggestions and decided to enter a formal Agreement with Mr Manning. (No details of the changes are given in the Council minutes.)
On 5th February the Council met with Mr Warren acting as Chairman. The Agreement with the new Jubilee Hall Management Committee was signed, the idea being that they would be taking over straight away. The Council spent the rest of this meeting dealing with details concerning the path to the Cemetery across Barton .It was agreed to hold a site meeting on 14 February at 7pm and for the Clerk to draw up an agreement with Mr Wheaton, the tenant of Clapps Close, to give up his right of way.
On 14th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Loaring was too ill to attend. Mr Warren took his place. Revd F. B. Richardson attended .The main business concerned the path to the Cemetery, details of which were quickly agreed. The Clerk reported that the agreement with the new Committee of Management of the Jubilee Hall had been signed and that they would take over on 1 March after an inventory of the furniture had been taken.
On 20th March Mr Loaring was well enough to take his place as Chairman at a meeting held in the Jubilee Hall. The Clerk reported that the last Whist Drive and Dance made £4:16:11d,due to a lower attendance. Cheques were signed for Mr Robbins (Caretaker of the Cemetery) Salary £1:10:0d,Graves £3:5:0d and for the Clerk to pay Audit Stamp £0:10:0d,Postage and Stationary £1, Workman’s Club Assn£0:10:11d,Ministers Fees £0:12:6d and Sextons Fees £0:9:6d. It was agreed to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on 31 March in the Jubilee Hall at 7.30pm.
The Statutory Meeting took place on 19th April at which Mr T.M.Loaring was elected as Chairman with Mr John Warren Vice Chairman. Messrs C. S. Appleby and J.Warren were appointed Overseers for the ensuing year. It was agreed to hold meetings quarterly in future instead of monthly as at present, such meetings to be held in June, September, December and March. Mr Robbins, Caretaker of the Cemetery, was present at the start of the meeting to tell the members that the Cemetery and War Memorial were being made untidy by people leaving litter at both places. The Council decided to post appropriate notices at each site. Mr Loaring expressed concern over the state of the Village Cross. It was said that the matter was receiving the attention of the Road Surveyor who had given orders for the necessary repairs to be carried out.
A Special Meeting was held on 1st May in the School. Mr Loaring was not well enough to attend and Mr Fowler was voted in as Chairman for the evening. Revd F. D. Richardson was present as the meeting concerned the path to the Cemetery across Barton Close. Others attending were Messrs G.Bishop, H.Wheaton and the Clerk. Agreement was readily reached for a gravel path four foot six inches wide. The Vicar undertook to have an Agreement drawn up. A cheque for £10 rent for the allotment land was drawn in favour of the Landlord Mr C. Phillipps with a request for the rent to be lowered. The members then visited Barton Close and Mr Bishop agreed to obtain an estimate from Mr Robbins to make the new path and to repair the Churchyard Wall bounding Poole’s Lane. A Precept for £21 on the Overseers for General Expenses was agreed. (A late addition to the original minutes states that Mr Robbins estimate of £20 for the new path was accepted.) On 26 June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. It was reported that the Cemetery path had been completed and that it would be tarred as soon as fit. Various cheques were signed including one to the Postmaster General for £18:13:10d (Telephone Guarantee). The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the Village Cross as no repairs had yet been carried out.
On 12th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. Mr Appleby attended as the representative from the Jubilee Hall Committee. It was reported that the repairs to the Village Cross had been done and that the Cemetery path had been tarred .The Members were delighted with the standard of work shown by Mr Robbins. A cheque to him for £23:13:4d was authorised, the breakdown being Cemetery Path £20,Tarring £1:13:4d,Salary £1:10:0d,One Grave £0:10:0d. A number of other cheques were signed and a Precept for £20 on the Overseers was agreed. It was also agreed to write to Chard R.D.C. about the bad state of Watery Lane Ammerham and concerning people scratching their names on the Village Cross. The Council were of the opinion that those responsible should be prosecuted. There was some discussion of the Table of Burial Fees and Mr Pym proposed and Mr Loaring seconded the motion that they should be revised. This was carried unanimously.
The last meeting of the year was on 27th November in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Messrs T.M.Loaring (Chairman), J.Warren, G.Bishop, F.B.Fowler, J.Pym and the Clerk. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about Watery Lane Ammerham as nothing had been done about it and to make them aware of the dangerous state of the bridge leading from Chalkway to Purtington. A letter was read from the Jubilee Hall Management Committee asking for the building at the North End of the Hall to be used as a Storeroom and Gentlemen’s Cloakroom. After a discussion this idea was accepted on the understanding that a replacement tool shed for the Caretaker would need to be in place before any work could begin. The Council agreed revised Burial Fees .The Clerk was asked to send them to The Ministry of Health for approval. It was also agreed to pay the Surveyor of Chard R.D.C. for the tar used on the Cemetery Path (£5:4:5d).
The first meeting of the New Year was on 2nd January, chaired by Mr Loaring. It was reported that £14:2:6d was raised at the Whist Drive and Dance on 26 December. This sum was credited to the Jubilee Hall Account. The next planned event was arranged for 24 January, a Fancy Dress Party, with Mr Fowler doing the refreshments. The footpath across Verdhay to Malthouse was reported to be flooded and the Clerk was asked to write to the tenant, Mrs Boait, about it. New fees for Band practices were agreed and Mr Fowler raised the subject of the poor state of the road from Pools Lane to the Cemetery. He thought the present right of way dangerous for carrying coffins in bad weather, intimating that it is in need of repair and the use of it for hauling material to the farm across Barton Close should stop. The Council agreed to investigate likely costs, having decided to do any hauling away themselves. Mr Singleton reported that he had received £1:12:3d in fees which have been paid into the Jubilee Hall account.
On February 2nd Mr Fowler chaired the meeting as Mr Loaring was unwell. Routine cheques were signed .Mr Williams (Congregational Minister) and Mr J.Warren were elected as School Managers. The Jubilee Hall Account was reported to have been credited with £6:17:6d from the Fancy Dress Evening and a Whist Drive and Dance was arranged for 7 February. It was agreed that contracts should be invited for the necessary repairs to the Jubilee Hall.
On 5th March Mr Loaring acted as Chairman. Present were Messrs J.Warren, G. Bishop, F.B.Fowler, J.Pym, H.Wheaton and the Clerk. Mr G. Bishop was chosen as the other manager of the school. The contracts for the repairs to the Jubilee Hall were examined. Estimates were, Messrs Stembridge £23:10:0d, Mr Way £38, Mr J.T. Loaring £25:11:0d. After some discussion it was agreed to accept that of Mr Loaring. The Clerk was asked to find out the cost of a bier.
A meeting was arranged for 9th March in Barton Close to decide the cost of an improved route to the Cemetery. A letter from Mr Roper complaining of the state of the footpath from Ammerham to the Church was read out.
On 27th March Mr Warren chaired the meeting, as Mr Loaring was unwell. Estimates from Mr Robbins for the Cemetery road and a new Cemetery tool shed were agreed, work on the shed to start at once and on the road when permission had been obtained. Mr Wheaton agreed to provide refreshments at the next Whist Drive and Dance on 13 April. The Clerk was asked to try to buy a bier for about £25.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 16th April in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Messrs T.M.Loaring, J.Warren, F.B.Fowler, G. Bishop, J.Pym, and the Clerk. Mr Loaring was re-elected Chairman and Mr Warren Vice –Chairman. “The Chairman in returning thanks remarked that he wished someone else had been willing to accept the office as his health was failing but it being the unanimous wish of the Council he was pleased to do his best for another year.” Messrs G. Bishop and C. S. Appleby were appointed Overseers for the ensuing year. Mr H.Wheaton agreed to provide refreshments for the Whist Drive and Dance on 26 April. After some discussion it was agreed to increase the charge for the Handicraft Class to use the Jubilee Hall from two shillings and six pence to six shillings with effect from next term. Various cheques were signed before the end of the meeting.
On Friday 11th May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall at 7.30pm with Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. A cheque for £20:0:4d was authorised, that being the deficit on the Telephone Station at Winsham for which the Council had signed an agreement. The Clerk agreed to write to the Postmaster General to inquire how long such payments would last. It was hoped that villagers would use the telephone more often! Mr Fowler agreed to see Mr Wheaton to try to stop the Cemetery road being used by heavy wagons as these damage the surface. The Council agreed to consult Mr J.T.Loaring about making a bier for the Cemetery and painting the shuting and signed for Parish Council Expenses.
On 8th June the Council met with Mr Warren acting as Chairman. It was reported that work had finally started on the footpath (pavement) in Church Street, which had been in a very poor state. This was the result of a long battle by the Parish Council for the work to be done by Chard R.D.C. The Council heard that Mr Wheaton was willing to sign an Agreement giving up his right of way across Barton Close, thereby solving the problem of damage to the Cemetery road. Messrs Warren, Bishop and Wheaton agreed to meet on Monday morning to view the necessary repairs on the footpath to Ammerham and to report at the next meeting.
On 13th July the Council met, Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. He reported that Mr Courtney had refused to have the footpath tarred in front of his house. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. to establish whether Mr Courtney had the right to do so. A letter from the Postmaster General was read saying that the Guarantee of the Parish Council would last for seven years, but that from 1 July “more liberal credits are allowed to the Guarantee Account.” A letter from the County Education Committee was also read in which they stated that they no longer wished to use the Hall for Handicraft after the current term. (This must have pleased the Council as the Handicraft Class had been leaving the Hall in a mess, hence the steep rise in the hire charge.) Various cheques were signed including one to Mr J.T.Loaring for £32 for work on the Jubilee Hall.
The Council next met on 10th August with Mr Loaring as Chairman. Major Davies was present before the actual business of the Council began. He read the Draft Conveyance of the land for the War Memorial. “The Chairman proposed and Mr F.B.Fowler seconded that the Council take on the responsibility as stated in the Conveyance and the Deed was duly signed by the Chairman, two members of the Council and duly witnessed by Major Davies. The Chairman thanked the gallant gentleman for his great trouble and also for the interest he had shewn with regard to the War Memorial.” The Agreement with the Westminster Bank on the Jubilee Hall Account was signed and Mr Robbins bill (£4:17:3d) for a shed in the Cemetery was agreed to be paid. It was reported that there had been many complaints about the repairs to the main road and public footpath in Church Street. Mr Fowler agreed to speak to Chard R.D.C. The Clerk was empowered to draw up an Agreement concerning the right of way across Barton Close. Messrs Wheaton, Warren, Pym and the Clerk agreed to help on the Fete Committee in aid of the Jubilee Hall, Band and Football Club.
The Council met in the Jubilee Hall on 14th September with Mr Loaring as Chairman. The Clerk reported that £9:13:0d had been credited to the Jubilee Hall Account, its share of the profit made at the Fete. This was thought to be very satisfactory. It was decided to hold a meeting of the War Memorial Committee on 18 September. Messrs J.Hyde and G.L.Singleton were chosen to act on the Committee for Cricket St Thomas, and Mr Hoskins for Purtington. It was decided to open the Jubilee Hall again on 1 October at a charge of two pence per week and also to discontinue the Daily Telegraph after the end of September (newspapers had been provided in the Reading room for many years. Perhaps the Telegraph was just one of a number). A letter from the Secretary of the Band was read asking for the use of the Jubilee Hall for a fortnightly Dance on Saturday evenings from 7pm till 11pm.This was agreed, the charge being ten shillings a night with the Band paying the Caretaker not less than two shillings and sixpence on each evening.
A Meeting planned for 11th October did not take place, as there were insufficient members present to form a Quorum.
On 9th November the Council met with Messrs T.M.Loaring (Chairman), F.B.Fowler, G.Bishop, J.Pym, H.Wheaton and the Clerk present. A circular letter from Chard R.D.C. about housing was read. This led to a long discussion. The Clerk was asked to write to The Rural District Council stating that cottages are required for the village, caused partly, by the disgraceful state of some of the houses in the village. Cottages in West Street, Back Street and Church Street were described as in ruins. The Clerk was asked to demand that the R.D.C. take action to rectify matters. The Council also agreed to appeal to The Southern Railway Company to provide a station at Winsham “now that the Company were about to lay out enormous sums on various works”. A letter was read from Revd F.D.Richardson inviting the Council to take part in the procession on Sunday afternoon (11 November) for the unveiling of the War Memorial. Boxing Day was fixed for a Whist Drive and Dance in aid of the Jubilee Hall with all Council Members offering to help.
The last meeting of the year was on 18th December in the Jubilee Hall. Various cheques were signed, including one to Mr Cuff for a skittle table on the Jubilee Hall Account. Mr Warren put forward a motion about the future of the Jubilee Hall, based on ideas put to him by a Mr Manning. He was asked to put these ideas on paper for consideration at a Special Meeting. Mr G.Bishop suggested that Council Meetings should be held once a quarter, with special Meetings being held as required. This was thought to be a very good idea. It was agreed that Mr Robbins should be asked to look after the War Memorial.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 13th January with Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. Mr Fowler, a Rural District Councillor, agreed to discuss a water supply at Paul’s Ash with Chard R.D.C. and to check progress on the War Memorial with the County Surveyor. The Allotments Agreement with Mr Phillips was read and approved. After a long discussion the Council decided that all coal and oil should come from the Jubilee Hall stores and that users of the Room should be charged accordingly. It was agreed that weekly members of the Hall should pay two pence per week instead of one penny with effect from 4 February 1922.Routine cheques were signed.
There was a Special Meeting on 26th January at Paul’s Ash to inspect the Water Supply. Mr Ross (Clerk to Chard R.D.C.), Mr Madge (Surveyor), Messrs Dommett and Fowler (R.D. Councillors) and members of the Parish Council attended. Mr Madge was asked to prepare an estimate for bringing water from Paul’s Ash to the tank at the top of the High Street.
On 8th February the Clerk was unable to attend .It was reported that little progress had been made in prospecting for water at Paul’s Ash. Mr Loaring chaired this brief meeting.
The Council next met on 28th March when an update was given on the Water Supply (little progress). A number of cheques were signed, details being:
Mr R. Robbins (Salary £1:10:0d,Gravedigging£2:8:0d,Hedge Trimming etc £2:0:6d)
The Clerk (Postage and Stationary £1:0:0d, Sextons Fees £0:5:6d, Ministers £0:10:0d,Bill £1:1:3d,Workmens Club Assn £0:10:11d,Appleby £1:0:10d Burial Board).
Precept for £21 duly signed.
Jubilee Hall Account. Mr Appleby £2:3:2d, Mr Robbins-Coal £8:16:9d.
It was agreed that the charge for the Cooking Class should be £0:4:6d(£0:2:6d Room -£0:2:0d Coal).
The Statutory Meeting was on 18th April following elections. Mr T.M.Loaring was chosen as Chairman with Mr John Warren as Vice Chairman. Messrs Persey Budge and Mr G.Bishop were appointed Overseers for the ensuing year. Messrs T.M.Loaring and A. Budge were re-appointed as School Managers for a period of three years .Mr G.Bishop was welcomed as a new Member. Messrs F.B.Fowler, H.Wheaton and J.Pym completed the Council. Various cheques were signed. The Meeting decided not to take out a licence for plays in the Jubilee Hall. Other topics raised were a drainage problem affecting the School Playground and Poole’s Lane (the first time an 'e' has appeared in the name and a claim from the Collector of Taxes.
A special meeting to took place on 20July at the Water Supply Tank to view the water on Mrs Staple’s property. Present were Messrs Loaring, Warren, Fowler, Pym, Bishop, The Clerk, Mr Ross, Clerk to Chard R.D.C. and Mr Madge Surveyor and Architect. After a long discussion it was proposed by Mr Loaring and seconded by Mr Bishop that Chard R.D.C. should purchase the house standing over the present water supply for £300 thereby getting more springs to augment the water in the present tank. Mr Ross was asked to carry out the necessary arrangements.
May 12th was the date of the next meeting, which was held in the Jubilee Hall. The subject of the water supply came up early in the meeting .It was agreed that the Clerk should write to Chard R.D.C. suggesting that they write to Mrs Staples applying to take water from one of her fields almost opposite the present tank. Mr Bishop agreed to plough up any spare allotments to prevent the spread of weeds. A cheque for £10 was signed for the renting of the Allotment Field to Lady Day 1922 from Mr Charles Phillips.
Mr Loaring chaired this meeting and the following one held on 13th June. At this latter meeting further discussion over the water supply led to Mr Robbins being asked to overhaul the tank and pipe work with a new source at Whatley Mill being investigated aided by Chard R.D.C.
There was a Special Meeting at Whatley Mill on 16th June which concluded that to bring water from there or from Mr J.Pyms farm would be too costly. This meeting was attended by Messrs Loaring, Warren, Bishop, Fowler, Pym and the Clerk in addition to Messrs Ross, Madge and Carter from Chard R.D.C. Mr Dommett, a Rural District Councillor, was also there. On 14th July the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. The subject of the water supply dominated the evening and it was agreed to ask Chard R.D.C. to organise a second dipping well down Fore Street and to investigate Mrs Staples field as a possible additional source.
A Special Meeting took place on 20th July at the Water Supply
On 15th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, but without the Clerk, due to illness. A letter was read from Mr Ross saying that a report by Dr Savage stated that the present water supply was contaminated. The Meeting heard that “a complaint was received of a certain man making use of unbecoming language to the Caretaker and the Clerk was instructed to demand an apology from the said person”. Mr Loaring chaired this meeting.
There was a Special Meeting on 27th September, again chaired by Mr Loaring. Updates were heard on the water supply and of the continuing need for an apology to the Caretaker. Routine cheques were signed and Mr Fowler led a discussion about the £20 donation by the Women’s Institute to the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed that, though strictly not in order, the Clerk should send a statement of account of the Jubilee Hall to the W.I.
On 13th October the Council met with Mr J.Warren acting as Chairman. A letter from Mr Loaring was read tendering his resignation through ill health. This was received with regret and the Clerk was asked to write to Mr Loaring asking him to re-consider the matter. A combined letter from the Secretary of the Women’s Institute, the Bandmaster, the Secretary of the Football Club and the Secretary of the British Legion asking that the charge for the use of the Jubilee Hall be £0:12:6d to include Caretakers Fees, Lighting and Coal and that the time of closing for Whist Drives and Dances should be 2a.m. was agreed unanimously.
It was arranged to hold a Special Meeting on 17th October to consider the Chairman’s resignation and the management of the Jubilee Hall. This Special Meeting was chaired by Mr Warren .The Clerk reported that Mr Loaring had re-considered his resignation and had agreed to continue to the best of his ability given reasonable health. A long discussion took place about the finances of the Jubilee Hall and of ways of making it pay its way. It was agreed that the last Friday of the month should be used for the benefit of the Hall by holding a Whist Drive and Dance with each member of the Council being responsible for providing refreshments free on a rota basis with profits going to Hall Funds.Mr Bishop agreed to provide these on 24 November. It was agreed to open the Hall for the young men of the Parish on 23 October .The Council formed themselves into a Committee “to look in occasionally to see how things were progressing!” Cheques were signed for The Caretaker and The Western Gazette (£1:7:2d) and for Mr Robbins (coal) £5:1:3d.
The next Council Meeting was on 17th November, this time chaired by Mr Loaring.He thanked the members for their confidence in him. It was reported that the re-opening of the Jubilee Hall had been “well patronised by the lads of the village”. It was agreed that Mr Bishop should procure a skittle board for the members of the Jubilee Hall.
The last meeting of the year was on 8th December chaired by Mr Loaring.It was reported that the Whist Drive and Dance on 24 November had raised £9:14:0d for Hall Funds and that Mr Warren had agreed to do the refreshments at the next evening on 26 December. Messrs J.T.Loaring and H.A.Loaring were appointed School Managers. It was agreed to write to Chard R.D.C. asking for a new Village Pump at the Village Cross as so many people now depend on it due to the scarcity of water elsewhere. The Council decided to write to Chard R.D.C. pointing out the need for new cottages and also to recommend that the unemployed be used to improve the dangerous corner at Street. “A vote of condolence was passed with Mr H.Wheaton and Mrs F. Wheaton and family on the death of Mr F. Wheaton, the Council standing”.
Mr Loaring chaired the first meeting of the New Year on 11th February in the Jubilee Hall. The War Memorial was discussed and it was left to the Chairman to call a Public Meeting in the next fortnight to decide the best way ahead. The Clerk reported that the Women’s Institute had donated £20 to the Jubilee Hall Account for which he had thanked them on behalf of the Council. The Council agreed that the aim must be to keep the Jubilee Hall free from debt and to carry out the necessary repairs as funds permit. The Chairman and the Clerk agreed to draft some Bye - laws for the better management of the Hall.
On 11th March the Council met and decided to seek the support of the gentry in Cricket St Thomas and Winsham to raise more funds for a War Memorial. It was agreed that Mr Pym should replace Mr Gill on the Council, the latter having resigned.
The Annual Meeting of the Parish Council was held on 18th April in the Jubilee Hall. Mr T.M.Loaring was re-elected Chairman with Mr J.Warren Vice-Chairman. Messrs J.Warren and Percy Budge were appointed Overseers of the Parish. Messrs F.B.Fowler and J.Pym were appointed Trustees of Holsworthys Charity. The Clerk reported that Mrs Fry had donated £5 to the War Memorial Fund. The Council decided to accept Mr J.T.Loarings estimate of £7:10:0d for renovating the Churchyard gates and to ask Mr Robbins to tar the Churchyard path. Routine cheques were signed at the end of the meeting.
There was a poor attendance at the Council Meeting on 13th May, only Mr Warren, the Clerk and Mr Wheaton keeping the Chairman, Mr Loaring, company. A cheque for £4 was signed for the rent for the allotments to Lady Day and the meeting heard that Mr T.Singleton was to make a gate for the allotments and Mr J.Warren had given a load of wood to the Jubilee Hall.
On 10th June Mr Loaring took charge of another small meeting. A Precept of £21 was made on the Overseers (£10 General and £11 Burial Board Expenses). It was unanimously agreed to write to the Manager of the National Bus Company requesting a bus connection between Crewkerne and Chard via Clapton, Hornash, Laymore, Winsham, Whatley and Forton .
On 8th July a Meeting took place in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Loaring in charge. It was reported that a gate to the allotments had been installed by Messrs Salter and Stokes (general work), Mr Singleton (making and erecting the gate) and Mr Spurdle (ironwork) .The Clerk was asked to write to Messrs J.H. Boait and S.Cross about the state of the pathway at the bottom of Verdhay and to allotment holders telling them that there was no right of way through Mr Phillips gate and over the fence. All should use the new gate.
A Special Meeting was held on 18th August to examine and subsequently approve an estimate from Mr J.T.Loaring to repair the W.C. in the Jubilee Hall which had been causing a problem. His quote was for £19:15:6d.The work was to be subject to inspection by the Sanitary Inspector.
On 9th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Only Messrs T.M.Loaring (Chairman), J.Warren, J.Pym and the Clerk attended. The following people were co-opted to act with the Parish Council on the committee for organising the proposed War Memorial: Captain Davies, Revd W.H.Phillips (Vicar), Revd F.Pavey (Congregational Minister), Mr H.Loaring, Mr G. Good, Mr R. L.Dommett
A letter from Mr Ross (Chard R.D.C.) enclosing a plan of the War Memorial site and one from Captain Davies were discussed and it was agreed to call the Committee together without delay.
On 14th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall, Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. It was reported that nothing more had been heard from the Surveyor since the War Memorial Sub Committee Meeting on 17 September. There was a long discussion about the Village Water Supply caused by the long drought. The Council concluded that a further source might be a pipe from Mr J.Warrens field. Regret was expressed at having allowed so many pumps to get out of order and for doing away with the one at the school. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the situation.
Mr Loaring took charge of the next meeting held on 9th December. A vote of condolence with Mrs Phillips and family was carried unanimously, the Council standing in silence. The problem with the Village Water Supply was discussed and further ideas debated. A cheque for £29:17:6d was authorised to pay Mr Hall, Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. It was reported that nothing more had been heard from the Surveyor since the War Memorial Sub Committee Meeting on 17 September. The Clerk was asked to write to Parr’s Bank about the Jubilee Hall Account and to the G.P.O. telling them of the inconvenience caused by the Public Telephone not being connected.
The Council met on 8th January and heard that Chard R.D.C. had written about the water supply saying that they were awaiting an estimate from Mr Madge and were having difficulty in obtaining the necessary pipes. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to the Bishop about the consecration of the Cemetery extension and a cheque was signed for £26:10:0d for the ground to be paid once the loan money had been credited. Ongoing items, which were discussed, were the Railway Petition and a gate for the allotments. It was reported that the Public Footpath across Kentsley had been blocked by a high fence. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Courtney asking him to remove it. A discussion followed about the Jubilee Hall, the main conclusions of which were that the contract with the County Education Committee for Handicraft and Cookery should end and that an overdraft of £20 should be arranged with Parr’s Bank. The Clerk was asked to write to the Agricultural Halls Secretary to obtain any interest on shares.
On 10th February Mr Loaring was Chairman for a meeting in the Jubilee Hall. A letter from Mr Courtney was discussed and the Clerk was asked to write to him again making it clear that a stile must be provided to make the footpath easy to use. Various cheques were signed including one to Messrs Denning and Co for £84 for the railings for the Cemetery extension. It was reported that the estimate for the extended water supply was £168 .Mr Fowler proposed and Mr Warren seconded a motion that “Owners of property who would receive the benefit of the extended water supply be asked to contribute towards the expense”. It was agreed that the supply at the Blue House should be free to the public. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. informing them of this. A letter was read complaining of the late hours kept when Whist Drives and Dances were held in the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed that the Hall should close at 1a.m. There followed a discussion over charges to use the Hall. Mr Gill proposed that all users should pay one penny, including The Women’s Institute, Boy Scouts and the Girls Friendly Society. Mr Fowler proposed that these organisations should not pay .A majority favoured Mr Gills idea and it was carried by three votes to two, the Chairman remaining neutral.
Mr Loaring was Chairman for the meeting on 12th March. The Council agreed to refer the matter of the footpath at Kentsley to Chard R.D.C. following a further letter from Mr Courtney. Mr Gill reported that he had been sent a letter by Sir Eric Geddes saying that the Railway Petition would receive careful attention. Letters were read from Mrs. Hoare and Mrs. Budge on behalf of the Women’s Institute objecting to the charges for the use of the Jubilee Hall. The Chairman expressed his regret at not voting against the motion at the last meeting and introduced his own “That Mr Gills motion concerning the payment of one penny by all who used the Hall be rescinded”. This was seconded by Mr Fowler. Mr Gill proposed that the matter be adjourned for a full meeting of the Council. This was seconded by Mr Smith but the Chairman’s motion was carried by three votes to two. The collection for a War Memorial was reported as having reached £4:4:3d.The Annual Parish Meeting was fixed for 26 March in the Schoolroom. The Clerk reported that the solicitor’s bill for the extension to the Cemetery was £34:7:10d.He was asked to forward it to Chard R.D.C. for advice on taxation.
There was a Special Meeting on 26th March in the School concerning the Telephone Service Guarantors. After a discussion it was agreed that the Parish Council should become the Guarantors. The Meeting was informed that a letter from the Somerset Agricultural Executive Committee stated that the Councils Tenancy for the Allotments would expire on 25 March 1921.It was agreed to refer the matter to Chard R.D.C. Routine cheques were signed.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 16th April in the Jubilee Hall. Mr T.M.Loaring was re-elected Chairman with Mr J.Warren Vice Chairman. Messrs J.Warren and Sidney Cross were elected Overseers. Messrs F.B.Fowler and Joseph Pym were chosen as Trustees of the Holsworthy Trust and a resolution was passed saying “That the money be utilized to provide a scholarship for Winsham School”. It was pointed out that the terms of the Charity to provide money for apprenticeships was no longer possible, as children were not now bound as apprentices. The Clerk was asked to write to the County Council about the Railway Petition and to Chard R.D.C. about the Water Scheme. A cheque for £4 to Mr Oldfield for rent to Lady Day 1920 for the Allotment Field was signed. The Clerk was instructed to inquire about rent not being paid to Mr Phillips, the owner of the field.
A Special Meeting on 28th April endorsed a Draft Agreement for the Telephone Service. Mr Loaring acted as Chairman.
On 14th May the Council met in the Jubilee Hall at 8 pm. Mr Loaring was Chairman. The Agreement with the Postmaster General re a Public Telephone was signed and the Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the Water Scheme including a statement that Messrs F. and H. Wheaton would be willing to give £5 towards the cost if work were to start at once.
On 11th June the Council met with Mr Loaring as Chairman. It was reported that work on the Public Telephone was to start soon .The Clerk was asked to write to Mrs Boait about the stile at Malthouse following a complaint that it was dangerous. Routine cheques were signed.
A Special Meeting was held on 18th June to discuss the Water Supply. After a long discussion Mr Gill proposed the following resolution: “That this Council petitions the Ministry of Health for an inquiry into the unsanitary state of the drinking water of this village and unwarrantable delay in remedying the same”. Mr Wheaton seconded the resolution and Mr Fowler spoke against it. On the resolution being put to the meeting only the proposer and seconder voted in favour, the other members not voting. A copy of the resolution and the result of the voting was agreed to be forwarded to the Ministry of Health and also to Chard R.D.C.
The next Council Meeting was on 9th July, Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. Letters were read saying that the consecration of the new portion of the Cemetery by the Bishop of Taunton would take place at 3pm on 13 July. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. to arrange gritting the West side of Church Street and to establish responsibility for maintaining Pools Lane. He was also asked to contact Mrs Quick again about the stile at Malthouse.The Council decided to ask the County Surveyor to visit to decide whether a protective rail could be put around the Village Cross when renovated or whether this would interfere with traffic. It was agreed to write to Chard R.D.C. for a start date for the Water Supply Scheme.
On 15th September the Council met and heard of the resignation of Mr Gill. His letter reads, “I beg to tender my resignation from the Parish Council, to continue would be a waste of my time, as my efforts receive no support.” The Clerk was asked to write expressing regret and appreciation of his hard work. It was agreed to ask Chard R.D.C. to have the Cross Pump put in good repair and it was suggested by the Chairman that a Notice should be placed in the Cemetery requesting, “there should be no unseemly behaviour”. This was agreed.
The Council next met on 12th November, with Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. It was reported that the stile at Malthouse had been repaired and that Mr Wheaton had given gateposts for the entrance to the allotments. The Meeting agreed to raise the rent for each allotment to twelve shillings and six pence per year. Routine cheques were signed. The question of the War Memorial was raised. It was thought most appropriate to have an engraved brass tablet on the old Village Cross, once repaired, as agreed at the Public Meeting. The Clerk was asked to investigate the cost of lamps for the Jubilee Hall.
The last meeting of the year was on 10th December with Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. The Clerk read a letter from the Somerset Agricultural Executive Committee about the allotments. Mr Northcombe said that he had replied saying that the Council wanted to keep the allotments but that they had not yet agreed a new rent with the owner who wanted £10 a year. It was agreed that the Clerk should find out the cost of a suitable brass plaque for the War Memorial and that the Collection Fund should be closed.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 10th January chaired by Mr Fowler. After a discussion it was agreed that ploughs could not be used on the allotments after the ground was first broken up. This followed a request to alter Rule 15! An estimate for fencing the cemetery extension was discussed and adjourned for further debate. The question of providing additional housing was introduced by the Chairman who stated that all parishes in the Union would have to contribute towards the expense whether they had homes provided or not . It was agree to hold a Special Meeting shortly about this. A letter from Mrs. Fry was read thanking the Council for their letter of condolence.
February 18th was the date of the next meeting chaired by Mr Fowler. It was reported that Mr Crossthwaite had inspected the proposed extension to the cemetery on 31 January but nothing had been heard since. The housing scheme was reconsidered and it was agreed to apply to Chard R.D.C. for the provision of eight, the sites for which could be chosen later. A discussion took place over the desirability of a war Memorial and the Council decided to accept Messrs Denning's contract to alter the railings in the old cemetery and to erect those required in the new part. The offer by Chard R.D.C. to connect surface water to the main sewer in Back Street was accepted. The welfare of old women living on their own was discussed and it was hoped that something could be done “to prevent them being left in a helpless condition”.
On 7th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Fowler was Presiding Chairman. It was agreed to hold the Parish Meeting on 17 March in the Schoolroom for the election of Councillors and to hear suggestions for a War Memorial. A letter was read out saying that the proposed extension to the Cemetery had been approved.
The Statutory Meeting of the newly elected Council was held on 15th April in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Messrs F.B.Fowler, H.D.Gill, T.M.Loaring, A. Smith, J.Warren, H.Wheaton and the Clerk. Mr Loaring was elected as Chairman with Mr Gill Vice Chairman. Messrs Sidney Cross and John Warren were re-appointed Overseers for the ensuing year. A letter from the Postal Authorities was read saying that the morning delivery would be 30 minutes earlier and that there would be an evening delivery. This letter was in response to a request by the Council at the last meeting. The whole Council was appointed as the preliminary Committee for the War Memorial which was to be discussed at the next meeting. Various cheques were signed including one to Mr Oldfield for £3:18:0d as a half years rent on the allotments. A letter was read about the Chard War Memorial Hospital Scheme. Mr Fowler volunteered to represent the District. Messrs Gill and Smith were appointed as representatives to meet delegates from Chard R.D.C. about the Housing Scheme. Mr Smith agreed to see the land owners to determine their willingness to sell the sites.
The Council met on 9th May, Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. The first item discussed was the War Memorial. Mr Fowler suggested that the Village Cross should be renovated, Mr Warren a brass tablet in the Church and Mr Gill a Recreation Ground. It was agreed to call a Public Meeting on 16 May in the Jubilee Hall to discuss both this and an improved rail service. There was a long discussion about the funding of the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed that the Clerk should use subscription money towards expenses as both the Agricultural Hall Shares produced no interest at present and substantial help had been lost through the deaths of both Mr Fry and Colonel Henley.
On 13th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Loaring acting as Chairman. The Clerk reported that he had received £2 from Mrs Fry towards the upkeep of the Hall. The following resolution was proposed by Mr Gill “That immediate action be taken to extend the water supply to West Street, Church Street, Court Street and Malthouse, and if necessary to enlarge the reservoir”. This was seconded by Mr Smith and carried unanimously. It was decided to send the resolution to Chard R.D.C. with a request that they investigate the obstruction of a well at the bottom of Church Street. The Council arranged a system for collecting subscriptions to pay for a War Memorial, the Parish being divided in to Districts with each Councillor agreeing to take a District. The Clerk was asked to send a letter of condolence to Mr and Mrs. Freeman Roper “ expressing sympathy with them in their recent great trial”. The Council agreed to apply to the County Council and to the L.G.B. for a loan of £150 to pay for the Cemetery extension. They also agreed to ask Mr Reade of Chard to manage the Deed of Conveyance. The Clerk was asked to forward to the County Council a Railway Petition with a covering letter signed by all members of the Council.
On 9th July Mr Loaring was in charge of the meeting in the Jubilee Hall. A number of ongoing topics were discussed, the £150 Cemetery loan, the collection for the War Memorial, Peace Celebration and the obstruction of a well at the bottom of Church Street. The Council arranged a system for collecting subscriptions to pay for a War Memorial, the Parish being divided in to Districts with each Councillor agreeing to take a District. The Clerk was asked to send a letter of condolence to Mr and Mrs. Freeman Roper “ expressing sympathy with them in their recent great trial”. The Council agreed to apply to the County Council and to the L.G.B. for a loan of £150 to pay for the Cemetery extension. They also agreed to ask Mr Reade of Chard to manage the Deed of Conveyance. The Clerk was asked to forward to the County Council a Railway Petition with a covering letter signed by all members of the Council.
On 8th August the Council met at 7:30 pm in the Jubilee Hall. Mr T.M.Loaring was Chairman. The draft conveyance for the Cemetery extension was approved, as was a list of new Burial Fees. The report of the Joint Housing Sites and Water Supply Meeting on 5 July was read. It was thought that the charge of two pence was unfair and it was agreed that a resolution should be brought forward at the next meeting.
A Special Meeting was held on 29th August to discuss the extension of the water supply. It was chaired by Mr Loaring. The Council decided to send the following resolution to Chard R.D.C. “That our previous resolution be enforced to supply Church Street, Court Street (including Malthouse) and West Street with standpipes from the present water supply and no charge be made to the consumers for the same”. The following sites for standpipes were suggested:
When sending this letter the Council agreed to include a request for a response to their petition for an improved rail service.
The first meeting of the autumn was on 12th September in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Mr H.D.Gill (Presiding Chairman), Mr A.Smith, Mr J.Warren and the Clerk. The Council examined the accounts of the Peace Celebration and decided to hold a Public Meeting on 19 September to determine what should be done with the balance of £30:5:0d.It was reported that the County Council had approved the loan of £150 for the Cemetery extension. The Council decided that Mr Gill’s ideas on the Jubilee Hall should be discussed at the Public Meeting.
On 10th October Mr Loaring was Chairman when it was reported that the Ministry of Health had formally sanctioned the Cemetery extension and the Clerk was then asked to find out how best to obtain the money! The subject of the quality of water was raised when it was said that the supply to the Court Street Cottages occupied by Messrs Bridle and Lacey was unfit to drink. The Clerk was asked to write to Somerset County Council about the Railway Petition and to Messrs Denning and Co. saying their bill would be paid as soon as the loan was in place. He was also asked to write to the Postmaster General requesting a Public Telephone “as the present arrangement is very unsatisfactory”. The Band applied for use of the Jubilee Hall on Tuesday and Thursday evenings but after some discussion it was left in abeyance. The Clerk reported that Mr Laws had applied to use the Hall for a Picture Entertainment. Routine cheques were signed and the Council agreed to Mr Robbins application to increase grave digging rates to fifteen shillings for a new one and ten shillings for opening an old one.
On 7th November the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Loaring as Chairman. The first topic for discussion was the £150 loan. It was decided “ that the loan of £150 be obtained from Parr’s Bank at £5:10:0d per cent interest to be paid in 20 years by half yearly installments”. The Deeds of Conveyance were signed .The Council agreed “ to allow the Jubilee Hall to be used by The Women’s Institute on one Wednesday each month from 2:30 till 4:30 pm and that one shilling and six pence should be paid for light and firing when required.” It was suggested that it would be a good thing if all the women became members of the Jubilee Hall. A letter from the County council about the Railway Petition was read and it was agreed that the Clerk should write asking the Council to forward the petition to the Minister of Transport with their support. A form was signed confirming the re-appointment of Messrs A. Budge and T.M.Loaring as School Managers for a period of three years.
The next meeting was on 17th December, chaired by Mr Gill. The Clerk was asked to investigate the consecration of the new part of the Cemetery. He was also asked to obtain estimates from Mr Robbins for the Cemetery gravel path and from Mr Churchill to repair the handle of the Village Pump. Routine cheques were signed and the Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the delay in extending the Water Supply and of the fact that the well supplying two cottages in Court Street had been condemned by the Sanitary Authority .
The year ended with a Special Meeting on 30th December in the Schoolroom at which the loan agreement with Parr’s Bank of £150 for the Cemetery extension was formally signed by Messrs Loaring, Warren and Wheaton.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 11th January chaired by Mr Fowler. A letter from Mr Budge was read stating that he still wished to resign as a Parish Councillor. (He first became a Councillor in April 1907). The Clerk read a letter from Chard R.D.C. about water supply to the Blue Houses. The meeting was told that Mr Fry was willing to pay for a supply to them. Two letters from the Somerset War Agricultural Committee were discussed. The offer of seed potatoes was accepted but it was considered that no more suitable land for allotments was available and that there would be insufficient labour to cultivate any additional areas. The Clerk reported that Mr Fry had sent a cheque for £13:19:0d to cover the cost of the Jubilee Hall to the end of 1917. Routine cheques were signed. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to Mr Fry thanking him for his generosity.
On 8th February Mr Fowler acted as Chairman. It was reported that nine applications for allotments had been received. The Clerk was tasked to find out how much land the applicants wanted and to ask the Agricultural Committee how such land could best be acquired.
A Special Allotments Meeting was held on 27th February, chaired by Mr Fowler. Mr Herbert Wheaton offered a field next to the old allotments and the Clerk was asked to write to the owners, Messrs Hayes and Son, seeking their agreement. He was also asked to write to the applicants and to the Agricultural Committee over detailed arrangements such as length of tenancy and the services of the Allotments Inspector.
On 8th March Mr Fowler acted as Chairman again at a meeting held in the Jubilee Hall. It was proposed by Mr Loaring and seconded by Mr Pym that a letter of protest be sent to Chard R.D.C. about the use of private keys for the new standpipe supplying water to the Blue Houses. Routine cheques were signed. A report by Mr Snelgrove, Inspector of Allotments, was read and discussed. It was agreed that the sites he had chosen were too steep, had poor access and were on heavy soil! He was to be asked to make another visit! The purchase of gravel for the churchyard path and the repair of the churchyard gates were discussed before the meeting closed with agreement to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on 28 March in the school at 8pm.
The Statutory Annual Meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall on 15th April. Messrs F.B.Fowler, W.R.Holcombe, T.M.Loaring, J.Pym and the Clerk were present. Mr F.J.Fry was re-elected as Chairman for the ensuing year. It was decided that the post of Vice Chairman should be renamed Presiding Chairman when the proper Chairman was not present. Messrs J.Pym and F.B.Fowler were appointed Trustees of the Holsworthy Charity. Messrs J.Warren and S.Cross were appointed Overseers. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read offering two acres at Bakers Field for £4 a year for allotments. The Clerk was asked to write to establish responsibility for fencing and for providing a gate. It was agreed to accept Mr Robbin's tender for providing gravel for the churchyard paths and to ask him for an estimate for repairs to the W.C. in the Jubilee Hall. It was reported that the Ecclesiastical Commissioners had agreed to sell a quarter of an acre of Clapps Close for the enlargement of the cemetery.
A site visit was arranged for Wednesday 20th April at 8 pm. Routine cheques were signed and a letter from Chard R.D.C. about housing was read and adjourned for further consideration.
A Special Meeting was held on 20th April in the Jubilee Hall chaired by Mr Fowler. It was decided that the Clerk should write to the Somerset War Agricultural Committee about fencing off the allotments and that the applicants should meet the Council at Bakers Field. The members then visited the cemetery and agreed that the extension should be to the west and that a four foot gravel path should divide the old and the new areas.
On 22nd April a further meeting took place in Bakers Field attended by all members of the Council, the allotment applicants “and other gentlemen”. Mr Loaring and the Clerk agreed to mark out the plots free of charge and the Parish Council undertook to pay for the fencing. Mr Smith agreed to provide two gateposts for the gate and the Clerk was asked to order four dozen gate hurdles from Messrs Heal and Sons of Axminster. He was also asked to write to Chard R.D.C. requesting permission to connect the Jubilee Hall W.C. to the main sewer. Mr F.B. Fowler was Presiding Chairman at these meetings.
The next Council Meeting was on 17th May in the Jubilee Hall. Present were Mr F.B.Fowler (Presiding Chairman), Messrs W.R.Holcombe, T.M.Loaring, J.Pym, H.Wheaton and the Clerk.
It was reported that Messrs Heal and Sons were unable to provide gate hurdles for the allotments and that another source would have to be found. It was also reported that a further meeting would be required over the Cemetery extension as the tenant of Clapps Close, Mr F.W.Wheaton, (he of the poisoned Black Mare) was buying the field and did not agree with an extension going towards Ammerham “as it would create such a long gangway”. It was agreed that the Council should meet Mr Wheaton to discuss the problem. The Council also agreed to obtain copies of Allotment Rules from the County Council Allotment Inspector. Precepts were made on the Overseers for £6 Burial Board Expenses and £14 for General Expenses for the Council.
A Special Meeting was held on 23rd May at the cemetery attended by the whole Council, Mr Wheaton and the Revd D.H.Spencer. After some discussion it was agreed to extend the cemetery to the south as first planned and to gain permission to part of Barton Close adjoining the eastern railings of the cemetery as a pathway to the new portion .The Vicar agreed to write to the Ecclesiastical Commissioners accordingly.
On 14th June the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Fowler as Presiding Chairman. There were progress reports on the cemetery, the allotments and housing for the working classes. Mr Loaring pointed out that the water tank needed repairing and that the taps in Fore Street still leaked. The Clerk agreed to write to Chard R.D.C. about these and of the poor state of the parish pump. A suggestion from Miss Rollo, Inspectress of Domestic Science of Somerset County Council, that “the Public Water should be laid on for Laundry Class in the Jubilee Hall was not approved neither the use of the Hall for that kind of work.”
The rates for spraying potatoes were fixed, three half pence per square perch on a self help basis, two pence when done by a Council man. Cheques were signed for Mr Robbins for £1:15:0d (gravel for the Churchyard path) and for Mr Short for £1:9:0d (salary and grave digging).
A Special Meeting was held on 21st June when a letter from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners was discussed. It was agreed that the Clerk should see Mr Wheaton before replying, as there seemed to be doubt over current ownership of the land. It was reported that there were still problems in obtaining fencing for the allotments.
On 12th July Mr Fowler was Presiding Chairman at a meeting where it was reported that the water tank and the taps had been repaired but the parish pump had not. The Churchyard Caretakers resignation was accepted and the Clerk was empowered to seek a replacement with effect from 1 October.
There was a meeting of the Council on 13th September in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Fowler as Presiding Chairman. A report by the Rural District Council on the allotments was discussed and it was agreed that appropriate rules were needed and would be submitted for approval by the Council. After enormous time and effort progress was reported on obtaining fencing and the work was said to be progressing well. The Clerk reported that Mr Wheaton was not involved in the purchase of land for the cemetery extension. The Council decided that the Clerk should therefore write to the relevant government department. Various routine cheques were signed.
On 15th October Mr Fowler took charge again of the meeting. It was reported that The Ecclesiastical Commissioners had agreed to release the strip of land needed for the cemetery extension at a cost of £1:10:0d and added that the tenant, Revd Spencer, had no objection and did not want any compensation. The Council was informed that there had been no applicants for the Caretaker's post. After some discussion it was agreed that the salary should be raised to £6 a year and that the fees for digging graves should be increased to ten shillings for a new grave and eight shillings for re-opening one. The Clerk was asked to see whether Mr Robbins would take the job. The Rules for the Management of Allotments, prepared by Mr Loaring and the Clerk, were checked and approved. The agreement between the Agricultural Committee and the Parish Council concerning the allotments was read and signed. Various cheques were authorised including one for £3:6:8d to Mr Singleton for erecting the fence for the allotments. The final discussion of this meeting concluded that ten hundredweight of coal a week was enough for the Jubilee Hall.
On 13th December the Council met with Mr Fowler as Presiding Chairman. It was reported that an inspector would be visiting shortly to examine the proposed cemetery extension. A meeting was arranged for all the allotment holders to explain the rules and to collect rent. This was to be on Tuesday 17 December. It was unanimously agreed that the Clerk should write to Mrs Fry “ expressing the Council's deep sympathy at the death of Mr Fry and their warm appreciation of his unwavering courtesy and kindness.”
The first meeting of the New Year was on 12th January in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. A letter from Mr and Mrs. Fry was read thanking the Council for their letter of sympathy. There was a discussion about extending the cemetery and it was agreed that the Clerk should write to the L.G. Board to decide the way ahead. It was also agreed to increase the Assistant Overseer's Salary from £30 to £32 to cover the cost of the increased guarantee now required by the Board of Guardians and other expenses. It was reported that the path at Verdhay was blocked. The Clerk was asked to write to the owner, Mrs Quick, to put matters right. A circular was read from the Somerset War Agricultural Committee concerning a survey of land, ploughing grass land, potato growing, pig keeping in villages, cultivation of fruit and vegetables, the keeping of poultry and women workers. After a discussion the Council agreed to support the idea but to explain to Chard R.D.C. that they knew of no wasteland in the Parish and that the allotments were all taken and managed well. An application from Revd H. Phillips to use the Jubilee Hall on Wednesdays for two hours was considered. This led to a discussion about heating costs as Revd Phillips had offered to provide his own “light and firing”. The Council decided that those hiring the Hall should use coal and oil from the store and pay according to the amount used.
A Special Meeting took place on 19th January to consider The Somerset Agricultural Circular on the cultivation of vacant land, allotments and gardens under two acres. Mr Budge chaired the meeting. The conclusion of this meeting was that the only vacant land available was beside the railway line but it was thought not worth the labour involved to break it up ready for cropping.
On 9th February the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. A letter was read from the L.G. Board concerning an extension to the cemetery. It suggested that the application should be made to the Home Secretary. The Clerk was asked to apply to him to consecrate another part of the existing Burial Ground as the present time was thought not suitable for expending large sums of money. A long discussion followed on the management of the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed that the Clerk should draw up a set of regulations for use by the Caretaker.
On 9th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall at 7pm. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. It was reported that a letter had been received from the Home Secretary about the cemetery.The Revd W.Gatsby attended and said that the Non Conformists believed that to consecrate another part of the Burial Ground would be shortsighted and that a new area was needed. After a lengthy discussion the Council decided to ask the Clerk to write to the Ecclesiastical Commissioners and to the Vicar seeking their views. He was also asked to find out from the tenant the approximate cost of purchasing part of the adjoining field. The Clerk was also asked to get Mr Churchill to put the water taps back in working order. An application by Mr Short for an increase in salary was discussed and an extra £1 a year approved from 1 April. A circular from the County Council about National Service was discussed and it was agreed to raise this at the Annual Parish Meeting on 23rd March. The War Savings Scheme was also discussed. Various cheques were signed and the Jubilee Hall regulations for use by Mr Singleton were read and approved.
The Statutory Meeting on 16 April 1917 was held in the Jubilee Hall and was chaired by Mr Northcombe initially. Mr Fry was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Budge Vice –Chairman. Messrs W.R.Holcombe and H.D.Gill were appointed Overseers. A letter from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners was read acknowledging the proposed extension to the cemetery.
The Council met on 25th June in the Jubilee Hall. Mr A. Budge acted as Chairman. Others present were Messrs F.B. Fowler, W.R. Hodder, T.M. Loaring, J. Pym and the Clerk. A cheque was signed for £1:4:0d to pay Mr Short's salary and for grave digging. Other cheques were signed and the gift of £7 by Mr Fry towards the costs of the Jubilee Hall was acknowledged. It was decided to buy a potato spraying machine for £4:4:0d following a circular from the County Council Agricultural Committee advising on the terms under which one could be bought. Messrs Pym, Loaring and the Clerk were appointed as a small committee to make the necessary arrangements. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. calling attention to the dangerous state of the wall at “Slow Bridges Ammerham”. Mention was also made of the dangerous state of the wall at the corner of New Road enclosing Mr Spurdle's garden.
On 3rd August the Council met with Mr A. Budge acting as Chairman. The Clerk was asked to write to Mrs. Quick about an obstruction to the footpath at Verdhay and to Mr Ward Coldridge about the dangerous wall enclosing Mr Spurdle's garden. The District Councilors, Mr Fowler and Mr Dommett, were asked to seek clarification over a proposal to install another standpipe in Church Street following a letter from Chard R.D.C. A letter of resignation from Mr Short was discussed but after speaking to the Chairman he had decided to stay on as changes were thought to be likely when the cemetery was extended. The Council agreed to the putting up of a new store in the Jubilee Hall by the County Council Education Committee. Mr Herbert Wheaton was chosen as a Parish Councilor to replace Mr Joseph Broom who had resigned.
The Council next met on 5th October with Mr A. Budge acting as Chairman. Various cheques were signed and a circular from Chard R.D.C. was read about the building of dwellings for “the working classes”. Mr R.B.Oxley was appointed treasurer to the Parish Council in place of the late Mr A.D.Paul. It was reported that the obstruction at Verdhay had been removed but that the path was still unsatisfactory. A letter was read from Mrs. Gill asking to use the Jubilee Hall for a whist drive. This was agreed, a charge of ten shillings being thought reasonable.
Mr A. Budge took charge of the next meeting on 9th November. There had obviously been some ill feeling in the village because there was a discussion about people complaining to the press rather than raising issues at the Annual Parish Meeting. No details are given in the original minutes.
An application to use the Jubilee Hall for a Whist Drive on 28 November was granted, it being for a whist drive only. Mr Smith's offer of a load of logs for the Hall was accepted enthusiastically. The Report on housing prepared by the Chairman and the Clerk was read and approved.
A Special Meeting was held on 21st November. Present were Mr Budge (Chairman), Mr F.B.Fowler, Mr W.R.Holcombe, Mr T.M.Loaring, Mr J.Pym, Mr H.Wheaton, The Clerk, Mr Freeman Roper and Revd M.H.Phillips (the last two being members of the whist drive committee). After hearing the views of Mr Roper and Revd Phillips the Council, without them present, decided “that the amended application for an hour's dance after the whist drive on 28 November be granted”. At the end of the meeting Mr Fowler gave notice that he would introduce a motion about charges for the use of the Hall at the next meeting.
The last meeting of the year was on 14th December. Mr Fowler was voted to the Chair. Routine cheques were signed. A letter of resignation as a Parish Councillor from Mr Budge was read out. This was received with great regret and the Clerk was asked to write to Mr Budge asking him to reconsider his decision. Mr Fowler introduced his motion, which rescinded the resolution of 5 October re the use of the Jubilee Hall for a whist drive and dance. His motion was “That an inclusive charge of ten shillings be made for the use of the Hall for a whist drive and dance and other entertainment in aid of the Red Cross.” This was seconded by Mr Pym and agreed. Some discussion took place over window blinds for the Hall. The Chairman agreed to investigate before the next meeting.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 14th January with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. Cheques were signed for Jubilee Hall expenses and Mr Fowler reported that Chard R.D.C. were considering the complaint about the road at Ammerham. The amount of guarantee required by the Guardians for the Asst Overseer was considered. The Clerk was instructed to write to Chard R.D.C. stating that the Council considered the present guarantee quite sufficient.
There was no meeting in February, the next being on 10th March. Mr Budge was the Chairman. Routine cheques were signed and it was agreed to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on 24th March. It was also agreed that the Clerk should hold the key to the Jubilee Hall piano and that the charge for its use should be £0:2:6d. Mr E J Broom signed the declaration of office and was welcomed by the Chairman on behalf of the Council.
On 14th April the Statutory Meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Fry was re-elected as Chairman, with Mr Budge his Vice-Chairman. Messrs Eli John Broom and William Robert Holcombe were chosen as Overseers. It was agreed to make a Precept on the Overseers for Burial Board expenses for £13 and £2 for general expenses of the Council. It was also agreed that the Clerk should write to the Guardians with regard to payment of relief to the poor.
The Council next met on 12th May . Mr Budge was unable to attend due to illness. Mr Pym acted as Chairman with only two other Councillors and the Clerk present. Any necessary decisions were delayed for a better attended meeting.
Mr Budge returned as Chairman on 9th June when Messrs Fowler, Holcombe, Broom, Loaring, Pym and the Clerk were present. The Clerk reported that he had written to Mr Wheaton saying that the Council bore no responsibility for the repair of the gates across Ammerham Fields nor for any damage done by stock as a result of them straying. The Council agreed with this unanimously and asked the Clerk to write to Mr Wheaton again, emphasising the Council's viewpoint. An estimate of £5 for the repair of water pipes in Fore Street was accepted. A cheque for £9:6:8d was signed to pay Mr Saunder's Solicitors expenses connected with the loss of Mr Wheaton’s black mare. The Clerk read out a letter from L.G.C. about fees for erecting tombstones. As a result it was agreed that no fees should be paid to the Sexton from the end of June but should be retained by the Council. The tapping of the water main to supply Manor Farm was discussed and it was agreed unanimously that the application should be refused.
The next Council Meeting was on 3rd August with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. It was reported that a vacancy on the District Council had arisen because of the resignation of Mr Wyatt. The Council decided that both Mr Budge and Mr Dommett would be suitable candidates. Mr Budge stated that he did not wish to be considered. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Dommett explaining the situation. Cheques were signed for Mr Short (salary and grave digging) £1:7:0d, for the Jubilee Hall account, Mr Singleton £2:5:3d, Mr Robbins £1:15:0d, Mr Churchill £0:15:0d and Mr Northcombe £1:4:2d for newspapers.
There was a Council Meeting on 15th September in the Jubilee Hall chaired by Mr Budge. Routine cheques were signed and it was agreed that Mr Short should be paid extra for his work in removing the yew trees from the cemetery. A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr Townsend for “the trouble he took to view the yew trees and report on the same”. The Clerk was asked to write an appropriate letter to him. A letter was read from Mr Saunder's solicitors about the gates across Ammerham Fields. It was agreed that the Clerk should discuss it with Mr Ross, Clerk of Chard R.D.C. It was also agreed that the Jubilee Hall should be closed at 7pm while the Lighting Regulations were in force.
On 13th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. Letters were read from Chard R.D.C. from which it was evident that the Parish Council has no responsibility for the maintenance of footpaths and that the Council should not become involved except to refer any obstructions to the Rural District Council. There was a lengthy discussion about a proposal to send some children from Chard to Winsham whose mother was supposed to be suffering from Typhoid fever. It was agreed that the Clerk should write objecting to the idea.
On 22nd December Mr Budge acted as Chairman again. “Before the business of the meeting the Chairman proposed in a few well chosen words that a vote of sympathy be forwarded to Mr and Mrs Fry on the loss of their son. This was unanimously agreed and the Clerk was instructed to write a letter to that effect”. Sympathy was also extended to the Clerk who had suffered domestic loss. Routine cheques were signed.
On 14th May Mr Budge acted as Chairman. At the start of the meeting he thanked the Council for his re-election and for the members kind words about him at the last meeting. Mr Hillier reported that the barbed wire obstructing the footpath at Hazelwood, about which a complaint had been received, had been removed. He also stated that a second barbed wire obstruction had also been reported and it was thought that the tenant, Mr Wheaton, must have done this. The Clerk was instructed to write to him telling him to remove it. Mr Budge told the members that he had done some research on the Village Pound and had discovered that it had been sold with the adjoining property formerly belonging to the late Viscount Bridport. It was decided to ask the Clerk to write to Mr Boait, the occupier, to deal with the flooded footpath at Verdhay and to Mr Boait to put up a step to the stile leading in to the field at Malthouse. The Clerk was also asked to write to Chard R.D.C. to report the dangerous state of the property at the S.E. corner of Church Street. The Council considered it prudent to do so as they could be liable should an accident occur.
On 11th June the Council was informed that the barbed wire at Hazelwood had not been removed. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Wheaton saying that if it has not been removed by 16th June the Council will report the matter to the agent, Mr Forward. The meeting learned that the problem at Verdhay had been resolved but nothing had been done at Malthouse Gate. Various cheques were signed. It was agreed to write to Mr Stoodley about repairs to the Jubilee Hall. Mr Helliar said he would write to the surveyor about the dangerous archway in one of his fields and the Chairman, Mr Budge, agreed to see Mr Peadon about his dilapidated property in Back Street.
On 23rd July the Council met in the school with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. It was reported that Mr Wheaton had responded to the Council's letter but in an unsatisfactory way. He had put rails over the wire still making it difficult to climb over. The Clerk was asked to write in strong terms saying the wire must be removed. Mr Northcombe agreed to see Mr Boait about the stile at Malthouse.
A system was agreed for National Registration. It was as follows:
Volunteer Enumerators
The first meeting of the autumn was on 10th September in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. It was reported that new stiles had been built on the footpath from Whatley to Ammerham and at Malthouse. Cheques were signed for Mr Short (Caretaker of the cemetery) for £1:2:6d and to Mr Northcombe to pay the Sexton £0:2:6d, the Minister £0:2:6d and Mr Singleton £0:7:6d for a ladder. There was a long debate, including a solicitor’s advice, over a claim made by Mr Wheaton that his black mare had been poisoned by eating yew from a tree in the cemetery. It was agreed to send a letter to Mr Wheaton’s solicitor, saying, “That the Parish Council after hearing legal advice on the matter consider they are not liable to pay this claim. The Caretaker of the cemetery says that the said yew trees have never protruded through the fence into Mr Wheaton’s pasture field. Will you (Mr Saunders, the Parish Council's Solicitor) please write to Mr Wheaton to that effect”.
The Council agreed that more members of the Jubilee Hall were needed. In order to attract them it was decided to try to make the Reading Room more attractive.
On 8th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall and heard that Mr Saunders had sent a letter to Mr Wheaton as requested and that he had received a letter from Messrs Clarke and Co of Taunton on the claimant's behalf. It was agreed to leave the Village Lighting in abeyance “on account of the war”. It was also agreed that Mr Loaring could dispose of the old Jubilee Hall stove for not less than five shillings. Mr Fowler agreed to establish what Urban Powers meant in respect of derelict property in Winsham.
Mr Budge chaired this meeting as he did for the next one, a Special Meeting, on 20th October. A letter from Mr Saunders was read and it was agreed that he should visit the cemetery to examine the tree and to interview witnesses.
Another Special Meeting was held on 27th October attended by Mr Saunders. This meeting concluded that the Council should compromise and make an offer of £30 to Mr Wheaton “without prejudice”.
On 29th October there was another Special Meeting chaired by Mr Budge. It was told that Mr Wheaton would accept £40 as a settlement but after a long debate the Council decided to offer £35 including costs. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Saunders to this effect.
On 12th November the meeting in the Jubilee Hall was again chaired by Mr Budge. Mr Loaring reported that he had obtained £0:7:6d for the Jubilee Hall stove. He was congratulated. The Clerk was asked to write a letter of condolence to the widow of Mr Helliar “who was always very keen on his duties as a Councillor”. It was suggested that Mr E J Broom should be asked to fill the vacancy caused by Mr Helliar's untimely death. Mr Holcombe was chosen Overseer for the remainder of the year.
On 24th November a Special Meeting was held when a payment of £35 was authorised to settle Mr Wheaton’s claim for the loss of his black mare. The meeting, chaired by Mr Budge, agreed to allow Revd Spencer to use the Jubilee Hall for a Bible Class on Sunday afternoons for which the Caretaker should be paid £0:7:6d and sixpence each time a fire was needed.
The final meeting of the year was on December 10th, chaired by Mr Budge. Various bills were settled and an appreciative letter from Mrs Helliar was read. A letter from Mr Courtney about the dangerous state of the road at Ammerham was discussed and was referred to Chard R.D.C.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 9th January with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. It was reported that no applications had been received for levelling the Churchyard and that the Clerk had given written notice to the Caretaker of the Churchyard and Cemetery. A letter was read from The County Council Education Committee about the appointment of a School Manager now that it had become a Council School. Messrs Budge and Loaring were appointed to represent the Council and the following other names were suggested; Miss Fry, Miss Savile, Revd Spencer, Mr Fowler, Colonel Henley and Mr Dommett. The Clerk was asked to write to The Open Missions refusing them use of the Jubilee Hall due to a previous booking. Various routine cheques were signed and Mr Robbins bill for repairs to the Water Supply was authorised to be paid.
On 13th February the Council met in the School, Mr Budge acting as Chairman. It was agreed to accept Mr W Spurdles tender for levelling the Churchyard - £1 per week per man. The Water Agreement for the School between the R.D.C. and the County Council was read and the Chairman was asked to report the views of the Parish Council to Chard R.D.C. The dilapidated state of Mr Hayes property was to be referred to Chard Rural District Council.
On 13th March the meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall. It was reported that Mr Spurdle had almost finished levelling the Churchyard and that Mr Budge and Mr Loaring would be meeting him to “give further instructions.” A Precept for £5 for the Burial Board expenses was made on the Overseers. Routine cheques were signed and the Council decided to issue notices for the post of Caretaker.
A Special Meeting was held on 25th March to fill the vacancy. Applicants were Messrs J. Robbins, H. Paul and J.Short.Mr Short was chosen for the job. At this meeting Miss Fry was recommended for the appointment of School Manager, as Cricket St Thomas had no representative on the Management. The Chairman, Mr Budge, was asked to state to the Secretary of the County Education Committee that the Parish Council considers that the School should close until after the Easter Holidays due to the illness of the Headmaster and the building of the new wing.
The Statutory Meeting was held on 15th April in the Jubilee Hall.Mr Fry was re-elected Chairman with Mr Budge as his Vice-Chairman. Messrs John Henry Boait and Eli John Broom were appointed Overseers. Mr Hillier offered to give grass seed for the Churchyard and Mr Short, the new Caretaker, asked for some tools to be provided.
Mr Loaring agreed to check whether Mr Perrott still had some belonging to the Burial Board.
The first meeting of the summer was on 8th May in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. A letter was read from the R.D.C. about sewage disposal and it was agreed that a charge of £10 a year was very reasonable. An application from Mr Holcombe (a Parish Councillor) to connect to the water supply was considered after he withdrew. The decision, after a long discussion, was that his request should be refused as it would set a precedent and could lead to a shortage. It was agreed that the Caretaker of the Churchyard should be allowed to buy a birch broom, a short ladder, a pair of shears and a pickaxe. It was also agreed that a notice should be posted telling those people wanting graves to be maintained by Mr Short to pay him direct. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Hodder of High Street about the dangerous condition of a wall on his property adjoining Limekiln Lane. He was also asked to write to Chard R.D.C. protesting about the unfair use of water by both Mr Hodder and Mr Paul.
The next meeting was on 12th June with Mr Pym in charge. Various routine cheques were signed. One was issued to Mr Spurdle for levelling the Churchyard. Its makeup was:
| Feb 28 | £2.0.0d |
| Mar 7 | £1.6.8d |
| ... | £1.6.8d |
| ... | £0.13.4d |
| Total | £5.6.8d |
It was agreed to ask Mr Churchill to repair the gates across the fields leading to Ammerham and to put the Cross Pump in working order. Mr Robbins was to be asked to repair the lower well and the Council decided to call a Public Meeting to consider how to provide a treat for all the children in the Parish and to organise other festivities.
There was no meeting in July, the next being on 7th August chaired by Mr Budge. “Mr Holcombe arrived just as business was over”. It was agreed that the Caretaker of the Churchyard should be paid five shillings for sowing the grass seed, one shilling for tidying up small graves and two shillings for large ones. Mr Budge was asked to see Mr Churchill about repairing the gates on the footpath leading to Ammerham.
On 11th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. After some discussion it was agreed to leave the repair of the gates on the footpath leading to Ammerham in abeyance until further advice had been taken. Mr Holcombe and Mr Northcombe were appointed “to interview Mr Copps over the best way of renovating the Jubilee Hall which is in need of repair”. The Clerk was asked to write to the owner of the field at Malthouse asking for the stile leading from the road to be repaired.
On 9th October the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. It decided that the repairs to the footpath gates leading to Ammerham should be carried out by the landowners and not by the Council. Cheques for Burial Board expenses were signed. The report on the Jubilee Hall was discussed and it was agreed that Mr Singleton should be asked to give an estimate for doing the necessary work at the next meeting. He was to be paid £3 extra for the additional work involved while the Hall was used as a school.
The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Copp thanking him for his helpful advice and to the owner of the property adjoining the Hall drawing his attention to the defective drain which was thought to be the cause of the dampness in the N.E. corner of the Hall. The Clerk was also asked to write to Chard R.D.C. complaining that the rebuilding of the wall in Back Street had achieved nothing as it had been rebuilt in the same place! A letter was read from Mr Fry and one from Lord Bath concerning The Prince of Wales Fund. The Council thought funds could be raised by holding a Patriotic Concert and dividing the proceeds between the Village Lighting Fund and the Prince of Wales Fund.
Mr Budge chaired the next meeting in the Jubilee Hall on 13th November. The Clerk was asked to write to the owners of the stiles at Malthouse and Verdhay asking for them to be repaired. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read about the wall in Back Street. It was agreed that the Clerk should reply saying that the rebuilding was unsatisfactory and that the Parish Council should be consulted more carefully when work of this kind was being carried out. It was decided to ask Mr Singleton to lift the floorboards in the N.E. corner of the Jubilee Hall to establish the cause of the damp. This followed a letter from Mr Ward Coleridge, owner of the adjoining property. Mr Singleton reported to the Council that he would be unable to provide an estimate of the cost of necessary repairs to the building.
The final meeting of the year was on 11th December. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. A letter was read from Mr Raisin saying he would do the necessary stile repairs but no reply had been received from Mrs Quick, the other owner involved. It was reported that Mr Singleton had lifted the floorboards in the Jubilee Hall and found that the damp was caused by rainwater seeping through the pathway outside. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Coleridge asking his permission to take up the path and have it cemented as well as the wall. The Council heard that the concert had been a great success and that £3.5.0d would be sent to the Prince of Wales Fund and £3 be credited to the Village Lighting Fund. Mr and Mrs Northcombe were thanked for their excellent organisation of the event.
The first meeting of the New Year was held on 10th January in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Budge acting as Chairman.
Updates were given on the missing bridge between Winsham and Bere Chapel, the high hedge at Axwater and the poorly maintained Churchyard and Cemetery.
On 31st January the Council met when it decided to investigate the idea of levelling the Churchyard .The Clerk was asked to find out whether the Council has the necessary authority to do so. It was reported that six applications had been received for the post of Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall. After going through them the Council decided to make an appointment at the next meeting having advertised the post in Pulmans Weekly News on 4 February. The Clerk was asked to write to Mrs Downton, the owner of Stadway, asking on what terms she would let that field for allotments, the Parish Council being responsible for the rent and rates.
Mr Budge chaired this meeting as he did for the following one held on 14th February. At this latter meeting it was reported that Mrs Downton had written offering the field for £14 a year .The Clerk was instructed to reply offering £9 pointing out the lack of any risk and that the Council would be paying the rates and rent. The applicants for the Jubilee Hall Caretakers Post were considered unsatisfactory and it was decided to advertise the job in the Somerset Gazette.
At the next meeting on 28th February it was reported that Mrs Downton had written to say that the field had been let at a higher price than the Parish Council had offered but a letter from Messrs R. and C. Snell was read offering to let Lower Stadway for allotments at a rent of £12 per year. The Clerk was asked to reply offering £10 a year providing the applicants were willing to pay that amount. Those applying for the post of Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall were discussed and it was agreed that the Chairman and the Clerk should interview Mr Simpson and Mr White, both Army Pensioners. An offer from Chard R.D.C. to spray part of the main road with tar was thought unnecessary. Messrs Budge, Fowler and Pym were chosen as representatives to meet three representatives from Cricket St. Thomas to choose one of them as a School Manager for the two Parishes of Winsham and Cricket St. Thomas. Mr Budge chaired this meeting.
A special meeting occurred on 6th March about allotments. Most applicants attended. A letter from Mr Snell offering Lower Stadway for £10 a year was read out. Many applicants thought the rent too high and it was decided to refuse the offer.
The next meeting of the Council was on 17th March in the Schoolroom. It was the Annual Meeting.
Mr Budge reported that Mr White from Taunton had been interviewed for the Jubilee Hall Caretaker Post, two other selected candidates having refused the job. An application from Mr Singleton was read out and he was thought particularly suitable, as he was able to support himself through his own trade. He was chosen unanimously. The Clerk was asked to draw up an agreement to be signed by Mr Singleton .Mr Loaring was chosen to brief the new Caretaker on his duties and “for his taking on the residence of the Cottage”. Mr Budge acted as Chairman for this meeting.
The first meeting of the newly elected Council took place on 11th April in the Jubilee Hall.Mr Fry was elected Chairman and Mr Budge Vice – Chairman for the coming year. Other Councillors present were Messrs.Fowler, Hillier, Holcombe, Loaring, Pym and the Clerk.Messrs.R. E. Budge and John Henry Boait were appointed Overseers.
The Vicar and Churchwardens were present when it was agreed to level the Churchyard in the autumn.
There were three complaints, one about a tree obstructing Watery Lane Ammerham by Mr Courtney, one about the well doors in Fore Street and one about the dilapidated property belonging to Mr Hayes .The Council undertook to investigate all of them.
The Council met on 9th May when a Draft Agreement for The Jubilee Hall Caretaker was read. It was agreed that it should be signed at the next meeting. Several other matters were reported:
It was agreed that the minimum charge for hiring the Jubilee Hall would be £0.2.6d, to be paid in advance to the Caretaker. Mr Budge acted as Chairman for this meeting.
On 13th June the Council met again. Estimates were agreed for work to be done on the wells by Mr Singleton and Mr Robbins with Messrs Holcombe, Loaring and the Clerk overseeing the work. Mr Singleton signed the Agreement as Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall and it was agreed that the Clerk should collect £0.12.6d including the Caretakers Fee beforehand for the use of the Jubilee Hall in future.Mr Budge was Chairman of this meeting.
The next meeting was on 11th July, attended by Mr Fowler (Chairman), Mr Holcombe, Mr Loaring and the Clerk. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. about the faulty taps at the wells and about the dangerous state of a property in West Street. He was also asked to contact the Postmaster General requesting a later collection as the present arrangement was unsatisfactory for businesses. Routine cheques were signed.
On 8th August the Council met with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. The main item of the evening was the water supply to the additional new school buildings. The Chairman was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. as follows: “That Winsham Parish Council will grant permission for water supply to school without charge on the understanding that it will not injure the present supply and an agreement to that effect. The Parish Council will raise no objection if safeguarded in this way.” .... "The Parish Council also claims the right at any time if required to tap the main laid by County Council to the school should more public taps be necessary".
Mr Budge chaired the meting held on 12th September in the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed that the School should pay £0.10.0d per week to use the Jubilee Hall. Mr Loaring reported that the well taps had been adjusted. The Clerk was asked to write to the Postmaster General again about the late collection of letters and to request that the Telegraph Office be opened on Thursdays. It was reported that a letter had been received from Chard R.D.C. concerning a projecting wall in Back Street belonging to Mrs Peadon. The Clerk was asked to reply saying that Mrs Peadon would agree to the wall being demolished and rebuilt in line with the Bakehouse, provided the R.D.C. met the costs involved. It was reported that Mr Hayes had visited his dilapidated property. It was agreed that Mr Churchill should repair the gate on the footpath leading to Ammerham and that various bills should be settled.
A Special Meeting took place on 27th September when Mr Ross, Clerk to Chard R.D.C. was present, to reach agreement on providing the school with water from the village supply.
On 10th October the Council met with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. Progress reports were given on a number of matters .It was agreed that the Clerk should put a notice in the Jubilee Hall calling for all subscriptions to be paid in advance to the Caretaker. Cheques were signed for Mr Perrott (£1.2.6d –Salary and Fees), Mr Northcombe (£0.16.0d-Fees for Revd Spencer and for the Sexton, Mr Singleton) and Mr Singleton (£0.15 .1d Caretaker of the Jubilee Hall). The Council voted to ask Chard R.D.C. to ask for tenders for the demolition and rebuilding of the wall in Back Street. It instructed the Clerk to write to the Caretaker to say that he will not be paid until both the Churchyard and Cemetery are put in good order. Mr Fowler and Mr Holcombe were asked to report when the necessary work was completed.
On 14th November Mr Fowler reported that estimates for the wall in Back Street had been submitted and that he and Mr Holcombe had “viewed the Churchyard and Cemetery and although not satisfactory the general condition was better than before”. It was agreed that Mr Perrott should be invited by the Clerk to attend the next meeting and be prepared at that meeting to give an estimate for levelling the Churchyard. It was left to the Chairman and the Clerk, in consultation with Revd Spencer the School Correspondent, to write to the County Education Committee about the School using the Jubilee Hall for Cooking and Handicraft classes and to protest against the expense of conveying boys and girls to and from Chard Centre.
Mr Budge acted as Chairman at this meeting and at the final one of the year on 12th December. At this last meeting it was reported that the County Council had agreed to pay ten shillings a week for use of the Jubilee Hall by the School and to use the Hall as a Handicraft Centre rather than sending the children to Chard. It was also reported that the G.P.O. had written saying that no changes to the current arrangements could be made at present .It was agreed that Messrs Holcombe and Pym “should interview the Postmaster at Chard on the subject”.
The Caretaker of the Churchyard and Cemetery, Mr Perrott, attended the meeting. He did not provide an estimate for levelling the Churchyard stating that he was underpaid and wanted to give up the job. The Council agreed that, should he not give notice shortly, he would be given notice to finish his engagement at the end of March 1914.
The first meeting of the New Year was held on 12th January in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. It was decided to hold further meetings this week to consider applications for allotments and to re-consider the Band application to use the Hall one evening a week.
On 19th January the Council met again, this time Mr Fry took charge. Many of the men applying for allotments were present. After a full discussion it was agreed that the Clerk should write to Colonel Henley stating that:
A Site Meeting was arranged with the R.D.C. Inspector following a letter about a water pipe fracture in Fore Street. The Council agreed to allow the Coronation Band to use the Jubilee Hall one evening a week provided each member of the band became a Member of the Jubilee Hall.
On 9th February the Council met with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. A deputation of men requiring allotments was interviewed and a letter from Colonel Henley refusing to grant part of Balsom was read to them. After a long discussion it was agreed that Messrs Budge and Norhcombe should see Colonel Henley and talk the matter over with him. It was reported that there had been a meeting with Mr Carter, the R.D.C. Sanitary Inspector, about the water leakage in Fore Street.
The next meeting of the Council was on 8th March in the Jubilee Hall. A letter from Colonel Henley was read in which he stated that he objected to part of his field being used for allotments and suggested that the Council look for another site. He also said that should the applicants refuse an offer of an alternative site the Council should drop the matter. It was agreed that Messrs Budge and Northcombe should see Mr Raisin with a view to obtaining part of Stadway for allotments.
Routine cheques were signed. The Council welcomed a plan from Chard R.D.C. for alterations to the road at Street but the Clerk was asked to write saying that, as the changes were for the benefit of motorists they did not intend to levy subscriptions towards the cost. The Clerk was also asked to thank Chard R.D.C. for the installation of Danger to Motorists signs in the village. A complaint about the state of the footpath across Verdhay to the Gospel Hall was to be investigated by the Clerk.
The Annual Parish Meeting was arranged for 25th March in the school. On 17th April the newly elected Council met. Mr Fry was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Budge as his Deputy. Messrs T.M. Loaring and Robert Edwin Budge were elected Overseers. Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler were re-elected Trustees of the Holsworthy Trust.
It was reported that Mr Raisin had been willing to let Stadway for allotments for £4 per acre but that the applicants had refused the offer.Mr Budge, not present through illness, sent a letter stating that he was against the Council acquiring land by compulsory powers.
On May 10th the Council met with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. The Clerk reported that no objections had been made over the new scheme for the management of the Winsham Charities (Wheadons and Holsworthys). He was asked to complete the necessary paperwork. Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler were appointed its Trustees. Mr Thomas Hellier was appointed to the Council in place of Mr Frank Pile who had left the Parish. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. explaining that the Parish Council had done its best to get allotments but that they should not apply for compulsory powers.
On 14th June Mr Budge took charge of the meeting, which was attended by Messrs Hellier, Loaring, Pym and the Clerk. The Chairman welcomed Mr Hellier. Routine cheques were signed. A letter was read from Chard R.D.C. asking for £15 towards the cost of the road improvements at Street. The Council agreed that the Clerk should refer to their earlier letter and to point out that Colonel Henley, one of the largest ratepayers in the Parish had already offered to give the necessary land, which is valued at £20. A letter was read from Mrs Peadon complaining of the disgraceful state of the road in front of the George Inn owing to the mess made by cows from Mr Hillier’s farm. Mr Hillier agreed to try to do something about it.
On July 12th Mr Budge acted as Chairman. A letter from Chard R.D.C. was read which expressed disappointment at the Parish Councils unwillingness to contribute to the road improvements at Street, authority to clean out the sewage tank and promising a visit by the Surveyor to inspect the grating at the bottom of Church Street.
Mr Fowler agreed to tell Chard R.D.C. about the danger to travellers caused by the very high hedge adjoining Mr Spurdles field at Axwater.
Mr Pym chaired the meeting on 9th August. It was a quiet one. Permission was granted to Mrs Meech to plant a rambler rose on her child’s grave and it was agreed that a lock should be obtained for the Cemetery gate. The Clerk was asked to contact Mr Churchill about it.
On 13th September the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. The Clerk was asked to see Mr Perrott, the Caretaker, about the untidy state of the Churchyard and to write to Chard R.D.C. about water running over the road at Paul’s Ash Lane. Mr Northcombe reported that he had received a form about the land value of the Parish Meadow.
On 11th October Mr Budge took charge once more and it was said that the state of the Churchyard remained unsatisfactory. The Clerk was asked to write to the Caretaker saying that the salary due to him would be paid when the work had been completed. It was announced that the water problem in Paul’s Lane had been corrected the day after the last meeting. Mr Fowler agreed to ask Chard R.D.C. for custody of the key to the water tank in High Street. The Clerk was asked to write to Wayford Parish Council asking them to replace the footbridge across the River Axe between Winsham and Bere Chapel. Cheques were signed for Mr Perrott, Revd Spencer and Mr Singleton. Mr Budge agreed to see Mr Hayes about the state of property at the corner of Church Street and in West Street.
There was a small gathering on 8th November, only Messrs Budge (Chairman), Loaring, Hillier and the Clerk attended. It was reported that the Churchyard was now in good order, no reply had been received from Wayford Parish Council and that the owner of the dilapidated property would “grant an interview” when he next came to Winsham.
The final meeting of the year was on 13th December. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. The Clerk was asked to reply to a letter from Wayford Parish Council. The Council agreed that the Clerk should hold the key to the water tank and that Messrs Fowler and Budge should meet the Caretaker to explain to him outstanding work needing to be done in the Churchyard and Cemetery. Routine cheques were signed.
The first meeting of the New Year was on 13th January in the Jubilee Hall. A letter from Chard Rural District Council about the Water Scheme was discussed and the Clerk was asked to acknowledge it. A resolution was then passed unanimously stating “That in the event of any owner or occupier requiring any special advantages of the Water Supply beyond the plans of contract as arranged that he or they shall pay the whole cost of such extra work”. A copy of this was forwarded to Chard R.D.C. Mr Budge acted as Chairman at this meeting and at the one held on 10th February when nothing of note happened.
On 10th March the Council authorised cheques for Mr Perrott, Revd Spencer, Revd Taylor and Mr Singleton. The Annual Parish Meeting was arranged for 27th March. Mr Northcombe, the Clerk, was granted £4 for making and collecting the Special Expenses Rate. He was instructed to write to Chard R.D.C. asking for a Danger Signal to be erected at the entrance to the village “ to warn motors to be careful because of the school and the dangerous corner”. Mr Budge chaired this meeting.
The Annual Parish Meeting was delayed and finally took place on 15th April in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Fry was re-elected Chairman with Mr Budge Vice Chairman, Messrs C.Phillipps and T.M.Loaring were appointed Overseers for the ensuing year and Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler Trustees of Holsworthys Charity. A complaint was made about Mr Hodder abusing the Water Supply. The Clerk was asked write to the R.D.C. about it. There were also complaints concerning the footpaths leading from Hazelwood to Ammerham and the one crossing Verdhay.The Council agreed to investigate both of these. The Clerk was asked to see the Caretaker about the unsatisfactory appearance of the Churchyard and the Cemetery. The meeting ended with an agreement to hold a Public Meeting about the Coronation Celebration on 26th April.
The meeting on 12th May was poorly attended with only Messrs Budge (Chairman), Loaring, Pym and the Clerk present. It was reported that the complaints about the footpaths had been resolved and that the Caretaker had expressed his intention to keep the Churchyard and Cemetery in a more satisfactory state.
The meeting on 11th June was better attended with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. The following resolution on Section 4 of the Rating and Collecting Act 1869 was carried unanimously “That the owners of all rateable hereditaments, the rateable value of which does not exceed £8, situated within the parish, shall be rated to the poor rate in respect of such rateable hereditaments, instead of the occupiers, on the rate made for the current half year, and on all rates made after this date”.
The next meeting was held on 14th July, Bastille Day. Mr Budge chaired it. Routine cheques were signed but the meeting was dominated by the Water Supply .The Clerk was asked to write to Chard R.D.C. to clarify the following:
The Council met on 8th September in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. The Clerk reported that a full reply had been received from Chard R.D.C. about the water supply. He was asked to ensure that the Caretaker removes brambles overgrowing the tomb of Mr Cooper. (This was done promptly).
The meeting on 13th October was a brief one, the only action being the Clerk being asked to write to the Chard R.D.C. reminding them of the earlier request for a Danger Notice to motorists entering the village. Mr Budge chaired this meeting as he did for the final one of the year on 22nd December.
It was reported that a letter had been received from the organisers of the Winsham Coronation Band asking to use the Jubilee Hall on one evening each week for practice. Messrs Fowler and Loaring were appointed to investigate what might be done and to report at the next meeting. It was also reported that eight men had applied for allotments. The Clerk was instructed to write to Colonel Henley with the aim of hiring part of Balson for use as allotments.
The first meeting of the new year was held on 4th January, earlier than usual, in order to respond to two reports by the Sanitary Inspector and two letters from the Clerk of the R.D.C. about the water supply. After a long discussion it was agreed that “the ground be opened up where the water is actually coming out under the wall and then traced before having to do with the main spring marked on the map sent by the R.D.C.” It was also agreed that members of the Council should attend when the recommended work is carried out. The Clerk was asked to write to Chard Rural District Council thanking them for their help. Cheques were approved and signed for the Caretaker Mr Perrott (£1.6.0d) and the Sexton (£0.6.0d).
Mr Budge chaired both this meeting and the next on 31st January. At this latter meeting it was reported that the search for the water source had discovered it to be under the Policeman’s House! The Council agreed that a collecting tank should be built with standpipes in Fore Street and Back Street once it had been established how the cost would be met. The Rural District Councillors for the Parish were asked to discuss this with the Clerk to the Union and the Works Commission.
On 11th March the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. Progress reports were given about the water supply and the attendance of Chard Fire Brigade. Routine cheques were signed.
The Annual Parish Meeting was arranged for Monday 14th March in the Schoolroom at 7.30pm when the election of Parish Councillors would take place. The newly elected Council met for the first time on 15th April. Those present were Messrs Budge, Fowler, Loaring, Pym, Pile, Wyatt and the Clerk. Mr Fry was re-elected Chairman with Mr Budge as his Deputy. Messrs Frank Pile and Andrew Miller were appointed Overseers for the coming year. Mr Loaring was chosen as Parents Manager of the school subject to the approval of the joint committee of Cricket St Thomas. A letter was read from the Postmaster of Chard about the opening hours of the local post office (8am till 8pm), which were thought to be satisfactory. It was decided to raise the salary of the Caretaker from £2.10 .0d to £3.0.0d.
The meeting on 13th May, chaired by Mr Fry, considered a detailed plan from the R.D.C., including a map, about an improved water supply. It was attended by a member of the Press for the first time. A long discussion took place during which concerns were expressed about cost and the probability that once the proposed scheme was finished more households would demand water of the improved quality. It was thought that an extended scheme would be sensible and popular and that the expense could be met by means of a loan over a number of years with the interest being met by consumers. The Chairman asked Mr Fowler, the Parish Rural District Councillor, to thank Chard Rural District Council for their great assistance and to explain to them the views of the Parish Council.
A letter was discussed from the Postmaster of Chard wanting to close the Winsham Post Office on Thursday afternoons. The Council could not agree to this and asked the Clerk to reply saying that the Assistant Postmaster should manage alone one Thursday and the Sub Postmaster the next. On 10 June Mr Budge acted as Chairman at an uneventful meeting. It was reported that no further progress had been made over the water supply and this was still the case when the Council met on 8th July. Mr Budge also chaired this meeting. On 12th August the Council had a long discussion about the water supply but no firm course of action was agreed. Mr Budge was again in charge.
The first meeting of the Autumn took place on 9th September in the Jubilee Hall. A letter from Messrs Gifford, Fox and Co. complaining that a stile leading to their factory was blocked led to the Clerk being asked to write to Mr Wheaton asking for the obstruction to be removed. Mr Pym was elected to serve on the Committee of the Evening Continuation Service. The Clerk was asked to see Mr Churchill about the Parish Pump, to remind Mr Perrott to cut the grass in the Cemetery and Churchyard and to see Mr Ross (Clerk to the Union) to say that the Parish Council wanted the original Water Scheme to go ahead without delay. Mr Budge chaired this meeting.
On 14th October Messrs Fowler, Loaring, Pile, Pym and the Clerk attended a meeting with Mr Budge acting as Chairman. A Precept of £3 for Burial Board expenses and one of £2 for Parish Council expenses was signed.
The account of the Parish Lighting Fund was read and it was agreed that the Clerk should try “to get more subscriptions towards that useful object”.
The final meeting of the year was held on 11th November. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. The original minutes contain one interesting entry “It was thought that the Parish Council might have been treated with more confidence and consideration with regard to the carrying out of the Water Scheme for Fore Street and Back Street and the Clerk was instructed to see the Clerk of the Rural District Council with regard to the matter”.
The first meeting of the New Year was held on 8th January in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge acted as Chairman, Messrs Fowler, Loaring, Pile, Pym and the Clerk attended. It was reported that pipes had been laid in Pools Lane and in Fore Street by the Rural District Council (a victory for Winsham Parish Council). Routine cheques were signed.
The Council next met on 26th March. Two complaints were heard, the first about a fallen tree blocking the footpath in Ammerham Meadow owned by Mr Bowerman and the second concerning the fact that the footpath adjoining Forde Abbey was dangerous on dark nights as the path was “not protected from the river”. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Bowerman. Mr Churchill was to be asked to repair the gate leading to the pathway across Barton Close from Pools Lane. Mr Budge chaired this meeting.
April 19th brought the Annual Statutory Meeting of the Parish Council. Mr Fry was again unanimously elected as Chairman with Mr Budge as Vice-Chairman. Messrs Frank Pile and George Welch were chosen as Overseers.
Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler were appointed Trustees of the Holsworthy Charity for the ensuing year.
Reference was made to a letter received from the Rural District Council about an infectious disease in the village. It appears to be related to the water supply in Fore Street. A report by Dr Sibbald, the Medical Officer of Health, was awaited. Mr Fowler was asked to obtain an estimate for repairs to the churchyard wall while the Clerk was tasked to interview Revd Spencer about the unsatisfactory state of the footpath through Barton Close leading to the cemetery.
On May 14th the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Budge in charge. It was reported that the tree in Ammerham Meadow had been removed. It was agreed that the estimate for repairs to the Churchyard wall was too high and that a second one should be obtained. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Roper about the footpath near Forde Abbey .He, the Clerk, reported that the Vicar considered the complaint over the footpath through Barton Close to be difficult to resolve as it was open to the public.
The main topic of the meeting however was the poor quality of water in Fore Street. After a long discussion it was decided to send the following statement to Chard Rural District Council “At the Annual Parish Meeting which was largely attended a complaint was made to the Parish Council from the inhabitants of Fore Street and Back Street because of the distance they have to go to fetch water and also that the Public Water Supply was polluted after a heavy rainfall although at other times it was satisfactory. The Parish Council being in doubt as to what is best to be done suggest that the R.D.C. make inquiries as to the water supply for the two streets above mentioned, as it is possible the owners might better utilize the water supply of their own property for the benefit of their tenants”
At the next meeting on 11th June, chaired by Mr Budge, it was reported that Mr Roper had written refusing to take any action over the footpath. The Clerk was asked to write to him again. It was also reported that the R.D.C. had inspected the water supply.
On 13th August both the accounts of the Parish Council and Overseers were examined having been audited by Mr Walrond. The first showed a balance in hand of £0.17.5d, the second one of £3.8.3d.An estimate from Messrs Parsons and Dunster of £4.3.3d for repairs to the Churchyard wall was accepted. Routine cheques were signed. Mr Budge chaired this meeting.
The next meeting was on 10th September in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Pym acted as Chairman. It was reported that the repairs to the churchyard wall had been completed satisfactorily but that, because additional work was necessary, the cost would be greater than expected. Circulars from the County Council Education Committee about lectures on gardening, agriculture and poultry were examined but no decision as to the formation of classes was made.
On 8th October the Council met under the chairmanship of Mr Budge. The Council agreed to increase the Clerk's salary from £27.10.0 to £30 “such salary to include the cost of journeys to pay the Treasurer and getting the Rate signed”. Mr Pym volunteered to get what information he could about forming a Rifle Club. The Clerk was instructed to get the necessary forms to enable people to join classes in agriculture, horticulture and poultry keeping. Routine cheques were signed before the meeting ended.
On 12th November Mr Budge acted as Chairman, Messrs Fowler, Loaring, Pile, Pym, Wyatt and the Clerk were present. Mr Ross (Clerk to the R.D.C.) and Mr Carter (Sanitary Inspector) also attended.
After a long discussion it was agreed on Mr Budge's suggestion that the R.D.C. ascertains what connection, if any, exists between the water coming out of the wall near the top well and a well near Mr Hodder's property and also to open up the ground beyond the policeman’s house to see if there is any water there.
The Council then discussed the problem of a fire in the village deciding that the fire brigade would be of little use owing to the difficulty of getting an ample supply of water, the River Axe being so far away.
Mr Pym asked for permission to use the Jubilee Hall when starting a Rifle Club. The Council refused his request but offered their support to his idea.
The final meeting of the year was on 10th December chaired by Mr Budge. It was reported that a drain had been found leading from a well in Mr Hodder's ground to the water supply .The R.D.C. would be dealing with this problem.
A bill for £6.2.9d was accepted for repairs to the Churchyard wall by Messrs Parsons Bros and Dunster and the Council agreed to help with the Whealdon's Charity should it be needed.
The meetings held on 10th January and 14th February were uneventful apart from the calling of a Public Meeting on 29th January to discuss the Rail Motor Service. Mr Budge chaired both.
On 13th March Mr Fowler took charge in the absence of Mr Budge due to illness. A letter was read concerning a meeting at Chard Road attended by Mr Vallance the District Superintendent of the London and S.W.R.Co. when the case for a Motor Rail Service was made. Routine cheques for Mr Perrott, Mr Singleton and Revd Spencer were issued.
The Annual Meeting took place on 13 April. Mr Fry was unanimously re-elected Chairman and Mr Budge Vice Chairman. Messrs William Dare and George Welch were appointed Overseers for the ensuing year.
The Relief List was examined and a few suggestions made. Mr Budge reported that there had been no reaction to date from the L. and S.W.R. Co.
A meeting on 8th May dealt with only one topic: a letter from the L.and S.W.R. Co.. It was decided to call a meeting of all interested parishes to agree a form of reply. Mr Budge chaired the meeting.
He also chaired the next session on 12th June at which the Clerk reported that he had sent a letter to the L.and S.W.R.Co. and had received an acknowledgement.
The Council next met on 10th July. Mr Budge acted as Chairman. Messrs Fowler, Loaring, Pym and the Clerk attended. Cheques were signed for Revd Spencer, Mr Singleton and Mr Perrott. The respective amounts were £0.7.6d, £0.5.6d and £1.9.6d. Payments of £0.4.7d for graveside planks and £0.4.0d for a scythe and stone were sanctioned. A reply from Land S.W.R.Co. was read stating that they could do nothing at present with regard to “Halts” but it was agreed that the matter should not be allowed to drop.
On 14th August the Council dealt only with routine financial matters. Mr Budge chaired the meeting.
The first autumn meeting was held on 9th October in the Jubilee Hall. There was a lengthy discussion about the responsibility for laying pipes in Fore Street and elsewhere. The Parish Council felt the task belonged to the Rural District Council, they believed the Parish Council to be responsible. The Clerk was asked to write an appropriate letter. The meeting agreed to drop the matter of the Motor Rail Service for the present following further correspondence. The issue of the dangerous state of a property in Court Lane was raised and it was agreed that the Clerk should write to the owner Mr Hayes threatening to involve the Rural District Council if no action was taken. Routine cheques were signed. Mr Budge chaired the meeting.
On 13th November the Council discussed a letter from Chard Rural District Council in which they denied responsibility for pipe work in Fore Street but giving permission for a pipe to be laid at the entrance to Pools Lane from Church Street. Mr Hayes, the relevant owner, was to be informed. The Clerk was asked to deal with a complaint over a property in West Street, the problem of the pipe in Fore Street and the dangerous property in Court Street. It was agreed that the Clerk should obtain a copy of Dr Whealdon's will referring to the Charity left by him for the benefit of Winsham and also to apply for remission of Income Tax on it.
Mr Budge chaired this meeting as he did for the next one held on 11th December. The Clerk reported that Mr Hayes had visited Winsham and had given an assurance that his property in Court Street would be pulled down shortly thus removing any danger to the public. The Clerk was asked to complete a Census of Production form covering an expenditure of £5 on the cemetery and to continue the argument about the pipe in Fore Street with Chard Rural District Council. He was also asked to find out from Chard Fire Brigade what they required in order to attend at a fire in Winsham! The Council decided to hold a Special Meeting on 18 December to discuss the Whealdon Charity.
A letter from the Chard Town Clerk asking Winsham to guarantee the expenses of the Chard Fire Brigade when called to a fire in the Parish was discussed at the meeting on 11th January chaired by Mr Fowler. The matter was adjourned for further consideration.
On 8th March Mr Wyatt acted as Chairman when the Council asked the Clerk to write to Chard Town Council stating that Winsham Parish Council could not guarantee any such expenses. A complaint was discussed about the dangerous state of some property in West Street. The Clerk was asked to write to the owner. “A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to both the Chairman and Vice Chairman for their valuable services to the Council.”
The newly elected Council met on 15th April. In attendance were Messrs Fowler (Chairman), A. Budge, T.M.Loaring, F. Pike J. Pym, A. Wyatt and the Clerk. Mr Fry was unanimously elected Chairman and Mr Alfred Budge Vice Chairman. Messrs Raisen and Dare were appointed Overseers. Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler were re-appointed Trustees of Holsworthys Charity. Mr Loaring was chosen as School Manager, replacing Mr Dommett who had resigned. The Relief List was examined and some suggestions made. The Clerk was instructed to write to the owner of a property in Court Street about its dangerous state of repair.
There was a meeting of the Council on Friday 10th May chaired by Mr Budge. As required by the County Council three Parish Councillors were chosen to form a joint local education committee with Cricket St Thomas. Those selected were Messrs Fowler, Wyatt and Pym . Mr Loaring was confirmed as People's Manager. On 14 June Mr Budge was again in charge. Cheques were issued to Mr Cook (£3.7.0) and Revd Spencer (£0.17.6d).
It was agreed that Mr Robbins should do what repairs were necessary to the wells in Fore Street.
The next meeting on 30th July, chaired by Mr Budge, agreed that the Clerk should advertise the post of Caretaker of the Cemetery and Churchyard. It was also agreed that Mr Robbins should be asked to cut the grass in the Churchyard and the Cemetery and also “put both places in good order”.
On 9th August the Council agreed to appoint Mr James Perrott as Caretaker of the Churchyard and Cemetery in place of Mr Cook who had resigned due to ill-health. The salary was to be £2.10.0 per annum with grave digging being paid “ according to the approved scale.” The Clerk was asked to write to Messrs Nantes and Sanctuary about the unsafe condition of some properties in Court Street.
Several matters were dealt with at the meeting on 13th September chaired by Mr Budge. A letter from Messrs Nantes and Sanctuary was read and discussed, the Clerk was asked to write to Mr E.C. Spencer to tell him to stop his poultry damaging the cemetery (!) and to also write to the Union suggesting that the Jubilee Hall should be used as the Pay Station for the relief of the poor instead of a cottage as at present.
The Council decided that an effort should be made to try to get the L.and S.W.R.Co to supply a motor service for the district.
At the meeting on 11th October cheques were paid to Mr Perrott, Revd Spencer and to Mr Singleton (Sexton's fees).
The parish pump was again in need of repair and Mr Loaring was tasked to check the water supply in Fore Street.
The Clerk was asked to see Mr Robbins about the poor state of the bridge at Chalkway leading to Purtington. Mr Budge chaired this meeting as he did the following one on 8th November.
It was reported that the parish pump and the water supply in Fore Street were now in a satisfactory condition and that the bridge at Chalkway was now “in proper repair.”
It was agreed that the Cemetery and Churchyard Caretaker should be insured under the Workmen’s Compensation Act.
The final meeting of the year was on 13th December. Mr Budge chaired it. Circulars were read from the County Council about the Allotments and Small Holdings Act and it was agreed to hold a Parish Meeting on 18th December in the Schoolroom to handle applications. The Clerk agreed to write a circular to other Parish Councils interested in a motor rail service for the district and asking for their cooperation. A discussion followed about Whealdon's Charity. A separate meeting was arranged to discuss this with the help of Revd Spencer.
The early meetings of the New Year on 19th January and 9th February were quiet. Mr Fowler chaired both. On 9th March Mr Fry took charge. At this meeting it was reported that the Deeds of Conveyance of the Jubilee Hall had been signed and that the Certificate of Agricultural Hall shares had been completed. It was resolved to ask Messrs Tucker and Forward to hand these to the Clerk. The Chairman generously agreed to pay the legal fees for which he was thanked.
On 14th April the Annual Meeting took place. Mr Fry was re-elected as Chairman with Mr Fowler as his Deputy. Messrs Boucher and Raisin were chosen Overseers for the ensuing year with Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler Trustees of Holsworthy's Charity. The Relief List was examined and some alterations recommended. Mr Wyatt was proposed as a replacement for Mr Eveleigh on the Rural District Council, the latter having resigned.
There were only two meetings in the summer, on 8th June and 10th August. Mr Fowler chaired both. Several cheques were issued, to Rev Spencer (Minister's Fees-12s 6d), Mr Cook (Salary and Grave digging-£1.16) and the Postmaster General (last payment on the guarantee for the Winsham Telegraph Office-£1.16.2d).
The Council were pleased that the final payment had been made but realised what a great asset the Telegraph Office had been to the parish.
On 14th September Mr Wyatt chaired a brief meeting at which it was agreed to hold a special session to revise the rules of the Jubilee Hall on 21st September. Mr Fowler acted as Chairman. The original minutes of this meeting make no reference to the Jubilee Hall but do say that two letters were discussed. The first from Rev Spencer asked for an additional gate to the Cemetery. This was refused. The second from Rev Prebendary Robinson asked that the Tithe Map be handed to the Vicar and Churchwardens. This was agreed.
The final meeting of the year was on 14th December in the Jubilee Hall. It was agreed to accept Mr Batstone's estimate for a new cover to a sewage pit and for Mr Churchill to repair the iron gates leading to Ammerham.
The Clerk was asked to write to the owner of the path across Verdhay complaining of its poor state. Mr Fowler chaired this meeting.
Mr Fowler chaired the first meeting of the New Year on 13th January. It was reported that the post box had been erected thanks in part to Colonel Henley whose workmen sited it. The Clerk was asked to write a letter of thanks. There was little other business.
There were two meetings in February, on the 10th and 17th. Both were chaired by Mr Fowler. At the first it was agreed that the Guarantee of the Assistant Overseer should be increased from £200 to £300 in accordance with the wishes of the Chard Board of Guardians. The Clerk was asked to contact Messrs Capel Cure and Ball about the transfer of the Jubilee Hall and a circular about classes in butter making was discussed.
The second meeting was a special one to consider a letter from Messrs Capel Cure and Ball. After discussion it was decided that Messrs Fowler and Wyatt should confer with Mr Fry before any final decision was made. They did so the following evening. Mr Fry endorsed the Council's wish to accept the transfer. He also agreed to give £5 a year towards the upkeep of the Jubilee Hall and more if required. He also suggested that Messrs Tucker and Forward should draw up a Deed of Conveyance and Trust.
The next meeting was on 24th March. Little happened. Mr Fowler acted as Chairman. The meeting on 14th April followed the annual election. Those attending were Messrs Fowler (Chairman), Dommett, Eveleigh, Loaring, Pym, Wyatt and the Clerk. Mr Fry was elected Chairman for the ensuing year with Mr Fowler as Vice Chairman. Messrs Holcombe and Boucher were chosen as Overseers.
Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler were re-elected Trustees of Holsworthy's Charity (Parish Meadow). The accounts as proposed for audit were signed by the Chairman. The Parish Relief List was examined carefully.
The annual salary of the Clerk was increased from £25 a year to £27.10 a year partly to reflect his additional role as Assistant Overseer.
The summer of 1905 passed quietly in Winsham. There were three Council meetings, on 11th May, 9th June and 14th July. Mr Fowler chaired the first two, Mr Dommett the third. Little of note happened apart from minor problems with the parish pump, which Mr Churchill was asked to repair.
On 8th September Mr Fry attended the meeting as Chairman. Routine financial matters were dealt with early on, the main business being a discussion about the Draft of the Deed of Conveyance of the Jubilee Hall and accompanying correspondence. The Council approved the draft and decided to instruct solicitors to have the necessary deed prepared and signed. The only problem in need of clarification was the accuracy of the plan. Mr Hodder was asked to prepare an accurate one. It was agreed that "at the conclusion of the proceedings connected with the transfer of the Jubilee Hall that a letter of thanks should be sent to the Hon. A.V. Hood".
The next meeting was held on 13th October, Mr Fowler acting as Chairman. Little business was done nor was there at the subsequent meeting on 10th November chaired again by Mr Fowler.
On 8th December Mr Fry presided over a well-attended meeting. The Managing Clerk from Messrs Tucker and Forward was present and produced the Deed of Conveyance of the Jubilee Hall and Declaration of Trust thereof and of the fund for its endowment. “It was resolved on the motion of Mr J Pym, seconded by Mr TM Loaring that the Deed be approved, and that the same and a duplicate thereof, and the transfer to the Council of the ten shares in the Agricultural Hall Co Limited be executed on behalf of the Council by Francis James Fry the Chairman at this meeting and Frederick Brenchley Fowler, and Arthur Wyatt, two other members of the Council also present at this meeting, this was agreed to unanimously and the same were executed accordingly. It was also agreed that the Jubilee Hall and buildings should be insured for £1500 with Royal Ins Co, two pictures for £100 and two pictures for £20 and the furniture for £80. Also that the Deed of Conveyance and certificate of shareholders be deposited for safety with Stuckeys Banking Company, also that rules should be drawn up with regard to the use of the Hall and for the present permission for its use should be given by two members of the Council or one member and the Clerk”.
The first meeting of the New Year was on January 8 in the Jubilee Hall, chaired by Mr Dommett. Little business was done but at the subsequent one on 12 February the Clerk was asked to write to Mr Hodder, this letter bringing a reply, which was discussed at a special meeting on 19 February chaired by Mr Fowler. It was agreed that the Clerk should write to Mr Hodder telling him that unless the down pipe is disconnected the Council will refer the matter to the Rural District Council.
The meeting on 11 March, chaired by Mr Eveleigh, saw the departure from the Council of Mr Sylvester. He was thanked for his contribution.
The newly elected Council met on 15 April. Mr Fry was elected Chairman with Mr Fowler as his Deputy. Messrs Pym and Holcombe were chosen as Overseers. Others present were Messrs Dommett, Eveleigh, Loaring, Wyatt and the Clerk. The accounts were examined and a Precept of £5 on the Overseers drawn up. After some discussion it was agreed that the whole Council should meet at the top of Fore Street on Monday 18 April at 6.30pm to resolve the water supply problems.
It was also agreed that the Clerk should write to Wayford Parish Council about the obstruction of the public footpath leading from Winsham to Wayford caused by the erection of new cottages at the Wayford end of the pathway.
On April 22 a special meeting took place, chaired by Mr Fowler. It decided to advertise in Pullmans Weekly News for tenders to improve the water supply in Fore Street.
On 2 May tenders submitted by Mr Churchill for £30 and by Mr Fowler for £35 were discussed. After careful consideration the Council concluded that they could not justify such large expenditure. Consequently no tender was accepted. Mr Fowler chaired this meeting. However, the Council did agree to ask Mr Churchill for an estimate for some more minor work on the water supply.
The next meeting was on 13 May, chaired by Mr Fowler. The accounts of the Overseers and Parish Council audited by Mr Estcourt were examined. It was reported that Mr Hodder had disconnected the down pipe as requested, (but only after countless letters and the threat of involving the Rural District Council!) It was agreed to leave any further improvements to the water supply in abeyance for the moment. The Parish Council meeting on 17 June handled routine matters apart from deciding to ask the Clerk to write to the family of Lord Portman expressing their sympathy (for the death) and also their appreciation of his great interest in the parishes of Cricket St Thomas and Winsham.
The meeting held on 12 August was chaired by Mr Eveleigh. Others present were Messrs Loaring, Pym and the Clerk. Two letters were read and discussed, the first from Wayford Parish Council denying any obstruction to the footpath and the second from The Hon Alexander Hood conveying his family’s appreciation of the letter of condolence sent from Winsham.
The first meeting of the autumn was on 9 September. Mr Fowler took charge. Cheques were signed for The Postmaster General-Council share of expenses of Telegraph, for Mr Cook’s salary and grave digging and for petty cash. Little other business was done.
On 11 November Mr Fowler acted as Chairman at a meeting attended by Messrs Dommett, Eveleigh, Loaring, Pym, Wyatt and the Clerk. A precept of £5 was signed for Burial Board expenses and a complaint about the dangerous state of the footpath in Verdhay discussed.
The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Raisen requesting him to repair the path. The Clerk was also asked to write to the Postmaster General asking for a post box to be erected at The Four Cross Way, Whatley thus making life much easier for people living at Whatley, Leigh, Whatley Mills, Clayplot and Street.
The most important part of the meeting was the discussion over a letter received from Messrs Capel Cure and Ball regarding the transfer of the Jubilee Hall to the Parish Council. A resolution, proposed by Mr Wyatt and seconded by Mr Eveleigh was carried unanimously. It stated that “The Parish Council gratefully accept your proposal contained in your letter of the 1 inst and to carry on The Jubilee Hall as the late Lord Portman wished provided they can accept the conditions under which the transfer will take place”.
On 9 December the Council met in the Jubilee Hall with Mr Fowler as Chairman. Updates were given and discussed about the Jubilee Hall, the Verdhay footpath and a post box at Four Cross Way. The County Basis for Rating letter was also mulled over, the result of which was that the Clerk was asked to write pointing out that their proposed Basis was £50 more than the Parish Rateable Value for Agricultural Land.
On 9 January the Council met under the Chairmanship of Mr Eveleigh. Mr Loaring was tasked to see the owner of the pathway in Verdhay as no repairs had been made since the last meeting. The Clerk was asked to see Mr Robbins about the drain at Malthouse. It was obviously still causing trouble. He was asked to write to the Rural District Council should Mr Robbins deny responsibility.
Unusually the Council met in the Schoolroom on 13 February, with Mr Loaring in the Chair. It was reported that the Malthouse drain had been cleared by the Rural District Council. Little other business was done.
On 13 March Mr Fowler acted as Chairman. A cheque for Mr Cook’s salary and grave digging was signed (£1.10.0) and the Somerset County Education Scheme discussed.
On 15 April Mr Fry and Mr Fowler were re-elected Chairman and Vice-Chairman again at a meeting headed by Mr Dommett. Messrs Pym and Raisen were chosen as Overseers. Other Councillors present were Messrs Loaring, Perham and Sylvester. The accounts were examined and passed. A vote of thanks was passed to the retiring officers. It was agreed to obtain estimates for the repairs to the parish wells (a never ending problem!)
On 8 May Mr Fowler acted as Chairman. It was agreed to accept Mr Tolman's estimate to repair the wells and the Clerk was asked to write to the Postmaster General to complain of the absence of a second house delivery.
On 29 May a special meeting was called to select a Local Manager under Section 6(2) of the Education Act 1902. Mr Fowler acted as Chairman. It was unanimously agreed that Mr Robert Lane Dommett of Hey Farm should be appointed.
It was also agreed to suggest Mr S Wyatt and Mr A Budge from which the County Council might choose their representative. The Council decided to tell the County Council that they felt it better for the school not to be grouped with any other, as it is four miles to any other school.
There were only two meetings in the summer, on 12 June and 7 August. Little happened of note. A problem with a footbridge near Wayford was discussed, Mr Robbins was authorised to carry out work on the water supply and Mr Tolman on the churchyard wall. The meeting noted that Mr Hodder had still not disconnected the downpipe on Mrs Gordens property!
On 11 September Mr Fowler chaired the meeting. Two bills were settled, one for Mr Cook for his salary and grave digging £1 and one for Mr Tolman for repairs to the churchyard wall for two shillings and sixpence.
On October 9 Mr Perham chaired the meeting. Only Mr Loaring, Mr Sylvester and the Clerk attended. Two cheques were signed, one for the Post Office Guarantee (Telegraph) for £1.15 and one for Mr Robbins for six shillings for repairs to the wells in Fore Street.
On December 11 Mr Fowler took charge. The Overseer's Account as audited in October was examined and a complaint about the stile and footpath from Colham to Chalkway was discussed. The Clerk was asked to write to the owners. It was unanimously agreed to write to Mr Perham “expressing the regret of the Council at losing his valuable service and also recording his unfailing interest in the welfare of the villagers during his long residence in the parish.” It was again mentioned that Mr Hodder had not removed the down pipe from his house in High Street.
The New Year started with a meeting on 10 January. Mr Fowler was acting Chairman. It was agreed that some byelaw regulating the use of water in Fore Street should be drawn up and discussed at the next meeting. It was resolved to remind Mr Hodder of his promise of 12 July and for the Clerk to write to Mr Fry 'expressing their deep sympathy with him in his severe illness with a hope for his speedy restoration to health'.
On St Valentine's Day (14th February) the Council met in the Jubilee Hall at 7pm. The water byelaws were discussed and approved. A letter from Norah Fry was read out conveying her father’s appreciation of the Council's letter to him. The Clerk was again requested to remind Mr Hodder about removing the down pipe at Mrs Gordon’s house.
The next meeting on 14 March was chaired by Mr Fowler. It was reported that the water byelaws would have to be approved by the Rural District Council. The Clerk was tasked to write letters to Messrs Mitchell Toms and Co, The Ecclesiastical Commissioners and to Mr Fry concerning the poor state of repair of parts of their properties and therefore of the risk to the public.
The date of the Annual Parish Meeting was agreed for 25 March. Finally, the Clerk was asked to speak to Mr Hodder about...the pipe!
The first meeting of the summer was on 15 April. Mr Fowler was Chairman for the evening. Mr Fry was re-elected Chairman with Mr Fowler as his Deputy. Messrs Dommett and Raisin were appointed Overseers.
Further meetings took place on 9 May and 13 June. The only noteworthy decision taken was that "repairs in connection with the wells in Fore Street should be left to the management of the members of the Council residing in the village".
On 16 September the Council dealt with a number of routine financial matters and Mr Robbins was paid for repairs to parish wells. Mr Loaring acted as Chairman.
On 10 October Mr Eveleigh took charge. A payment of ten shillings was authorised to Mr Hodder for the erection of a Notice Board for the Cemetery. A precept for £5 for Parish Council expenses was signed.
At the meeting on 14 November Mr Dommett was Chairman. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Raisin asking him to make the pathway from Verdhay to Malthouse passable. Circulars from the County Education Committee concerning scholarships were read out.
On 12th December Mr Fowler acted as Chairman. The Clerk was reminded to write to Mr Raisin and cheques were signed for the Sexton's and Minister's Fees. The Clerk was also requested to make inquiries “as to the advisability of insuring The Caretaker of Cemetery under the Workmen’s Compensation Act”.
The first meeting of the New Year was held on 11 January. Present were Messrs Fowler (Chairman), Dommett, Eveleigh, Perham and the Clerk Mr Northcombe.
A scale of fees as required by the Burial Act, which came into force on 1 January 1901, was examined and agreed.
The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Hodder again as the water pollution had not been rectified. Mr Fowler acted as Chairman at the meeting on 15 March. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Hodder again, the offending property being one occupied by Mrs Gordon.
A bill from Mr Churchill for the repair of the village pump was forwarded to the Rural District Council for payment. The Overseers and Parish Council accounts were examined and passed.
April 19 marked the first meeting of the newly elected Council. Its composition was: Mr Fry (Chairman), Mr Fowler (Vice-Chairman), Messrs Eveleigh, Loaring, Perham, Sylvester and the Clerk. Messrs Dommett and Hodder were chosen as Overseers. The Clerk was again requested to ask Mr Hodder to disconnect the guttering from Mrs Gordon's house to the parish well drain.
A precept on the Overseers for £10, £5 Burial Board Expenses and £5 Parish Council Expenses were agreed.
Colonel Henley and Mr Fowler were reappointed Trustees for Holsworthy Charity.
Mr Eveleigh chaired the meeting on 11 May. The water problem was discussed but no action taken.
On June 14 Mr Fry was Chairman. Little business was done. "Mr Hodder's statement with regard to water was adjourned for the next meeting." At that meeting on July 12 Mr Hodder promised to disconnect the offending downpipe (action at last?) His promise may have had a price for at the same meeting he asked that the gate leading from Clapps Close to Balsam be repaired. The Clerk was told to write to Mr Hodder advising him to write to the owner of the relevant property himself!
Mr Churchill’s estimate of £5 to repair and paint the Cemetery railings was accepted.
Mr Fowler chaired the meeting on 13 September. The first entry in the minutes records that the Clerk was asked to write to Mrs Gordon “with regard to refuse matter being thrown from her premises into the street”. (There was probably some ill feeling in Fore Street because Mr Hodder had still not removed the down pipe affecting the well water.)
Some routine financial matters were settled and Mr Bowerman's quote for additional work on the Churchyard wall was accepted.
The Clerk was asked to write to the Postmaster General to complain about late deliveries.
Mr Sylvester chaired the meeting on October 11. It was a meeting tying up loose ends. The problems with Mrs Gordon had stopped, The Postmaster General had promised better service, Mr Hodder had promised to disconnect the pipe in a few days and Mr Churchill had finished the Cemetery railings-a good meeting!
On November 8 Mr Fowler was Chairman. A table of Burial fees was approved as required by the Burial Act 1900. The meeting heard that Mr Hodder had not fulfilled his promise!
Some routine financial matters were dealt with.
At the last meeting of the year Mr Sylvester was Chairman. It was reported that the Burial Board fees had been approved. It was decided that a notice board should be erected in the cemetery. The subject of the wells in Fore Street featured again but no policy decision was made.
Mr Fowler took charge of the first meeting of the New Year on 9 January. The only notable business was that the Clerk was granted two guineas for expenses in preparing the new Valuation List of the Parish. There was no meeting in February due to the weather.
On March 13 Mr Fowler was again acting as Chairman when the Council agreed that water damage in Broadenham Lane and the fixing of a date for the Annual Parish Meeting should be left to Colonel Henley. This decision appears to have prompted a crisis for the meeting on 18 April was adjourned until 21st April.
A meeting was held on 21 April at which, following a proposal by Mr Eveleigh and seconded by Mr Perham, Mr F.J. Fry was elected Chairman. Mr Fowler agreed to continue as Vice-Chairman. (Colonel Henley had served for six years but had missed many meetings over the past two years, due, apparently, to ill health. The Clerk was tasked to write to him, “according him a unanimous and hearty vote of thanks for his services in the past and also to express a hope for his speedy recovery from his illness”).
The Council agreed to raise the Clerks salary from £21 to £25 per annum and to pay twelve shillings for the cleaning, lighting and heating of the Jubilee Hall for meetings.
The rent for the tank from Colonel Henley for emptying drains at Court Hill was also agreed to be paid.
A discussion followed about flooding in Broadenham Lane. Serious damage was said to have been caused, blame being levelled at one stage at Mr Persey. Mr Budge came to his defence saying that the Rural District Council had some responsibility and the Clerk was asked to write to them in order to clarify matters.
On 11 May the only decision taken of note was to advertise in two local papers for estimates for the repair of the Churchyard wall. Two estimates resulted and at their meeting on 15 June the Council agreed to accept Mr Bowerman's quote. This meeting also agreed that the owners of land near the flooding in Broadenham Lane should put matters right and then responsibility for its maintenance should pass to the Rural District Council.
Meetings were held regularly in the Autumn of 1900, on 14 September, 9 November and 14 December. The Churchyard wall was repaired successfully but at a price! When it had been done the Vicar Rev. Spencer declared that the wall separating the Vicarage Garden from the Churchyard also needed to be repaired! The Council agreed to investigate.
The landowners in Broadenham Lane were chased by the Clerk to hasten remedial work to the flooding problem and a small committee was formed to seek ways of improving the water supply from the Parish Pump – it was successful.
The bill for the Churchyard wall repairs of £18 was settled and Mr Bowerman's estimate of £5 for repairs identified by the Vicar was accepted.
At the last meeting a letter of complaint was discussed. It concerned water contamination caused by rainwater running off a house entering a well. The property involved belonged to Mr Hodder in Fore Street. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Hodder to rectify the problem.
There were two meetings in January, on the 10 and 13. Little business was done apart from discussing and agreeing the Draft Agreement from the General Post Office for the Telegraph Office. Colonel Henley resumed his role as Chairman for the meeting on 7 February and signed the General Post Office Agreement.
At the next meeting on 14 March Mr Hodder applied to draw water from the well in Fore Street. Permission was granted and an agreement was to be drawn up. The poor state of repair of the roads at Purtington and Fore Street was discussed. It was decided to ask Mr Churchill to repair the Parish Pump. The Relief List was checked carefully and a few alterations suggested. The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to both the Chairman and Clerk.
April 18 was the date of the next meeting, following an election to form the new Council. Colonel Henley continued as Chairman with Mr Fowler Vice-Chairman. Members were Messrs Budge, Eveleigh, Dommett and Perham. Messrs Whinsley and Wyatt were re-appointed Overseers for the ensuing year.
The Council decided on a rent of one shilling a year for the use of water by Mr Hodder in Fore Street and an agreement was signed. Messrs Henley and Fowler were appointed Trustees of Holsworthys Charity.
On May 9 the Council met in the Jubilee Hall. Mr Budge reported that he and Mr Perham had inspected Mr Hodder's “Dipping Well “ and found it incomplete. It was agreed that they should visit again and report .It was also agreed that rent for the water should be paid in advance on 15 April each year.
Mr Budge proposed that the Council carry out repair work to the road at Paul’s Ash Lane. He received no support and the matter was left in abeyance in the hope that it would be settled amicably in time.
At the meeting on 13 June Mr Perham reported that Mr Hodder's well had been inspected and found to be satisfactory. A cheque for £1.6.0 for Mr Cook’s salary for grave digging was signed.
There were two meetings in September, on 12 and 27. A letter from Mr Cross concerning the footpath from Fore Street to Court Street was discussed at the first meeting. Mr Budge was tasked to visit the owner.
The Clerk agreed to obtain an estimate for repairs to the Churchyard wall. The Relief List was studied at the second meeting and a few alterations made. It was to be sent to Mr Hawks, the Relieving Officer.
On October 10th Mr Fowler chaired the meeting. Mr Budge reported on the state of the footpath from Fore Street to Court Street. He considered the path from Gospel Hall to Fore Street to be in good condition but that the stile and footpath leading from Verdhay to Malthouse was in need of repair. The Clerk agreed to write to the owners asking them to erect a substantial stile and to keep water from the footpath.
Mr Bowerman's estimate for repairs to the Churchyard wall was examined .The Council decided to inspect the wall carefully and to obtain a second estimate if they thought that necessary.
The meeting on 14 November began on this subject. It was agreed to put off repairs until the Spring.
It was reported that Mr Raisin had erected a new stile on the footpath between Verdhay and Malthouse.
The final meeting of the year was chaired by Mr Dommett on 12 December. Routine matters were dealt with but “other business was put off for a fuller meeting of members”.
The first meeting on the New Year was on 8 March. It dealt with routine matters mainly, the exceptions being an intention to inform the Sanitary Inspector of the danguar state of some outbuildings in Court Street and an application to Rev Spencer for the deed referring to the Charity Field. The freshly elected Council met on 15 April.
On 6 June the Council tasked Messrs Sylvester and Whinsley to report on the state of the Churchyard wall near the cottages in Poole’s Lane. Repairs were authorised for the repair to the underground pipes connecting the wells in Fore Street, damage caused, apparently, by a traction engine. The Council decided to seek compensation.
Mr Fowler chaired the meeting on 13 September. It was reported that the repairs to the wells had been completed satisfactorily and that an estimate was needed for repairing the Churchyard wall.
There was a meeting on 25 October but nothing of note happened. The Clerk writes of the meeting on 8 November “the business was merely of a formal character”.
On 30 November a special meeting was held to consider The Telegraph Office Guarantee. It was decided that Mr Fowler (who again acted as Chairman) should see Mr Fry to discuss the Guarantee. (It is believed that Mr Fry was living at Cricket St Thomas at this time).
The final meeting of the year took place on 13 December. Mr Fowler reported the result of his meeting with Mr Fry and it was proposed by Mr Dommett and seconded by Mr Perham “that the Clerk see Mr Fry and obtain a letter concerning the Telegraph Office and then write to the Secretary of the General Post Office informing him that the Council had agreed to become guarantors for the sum required for the establishment of a Telegraph Office in Winsham”.
The meeting also decided to write to Colonel Henley informing him of what the Council had done and to wish him the compliments of the season and to say that although absent he was not forgotten. (The Minutes Book offers no explanation for Colonel Henley’s prolonged absence. He missed all the Autumn meetings).
On 12 January it was decided to postpone the purchase of a bier due to cost.
At the subsequent meeting on 9 March “a claim for tithes paid by mistake by Mr Persey was received and the Clerk was instructed to write to him saying that he had no claim against the Council (no love lost between them). A tender of £6 was received from Mr Cross for the Parish Field. The Council agreed to offer it to him for £6.10.0 tithe free. Various routine bills were settled. The meeting agreed that after the election of Councillors on 18 March they would consider how to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty. A vote of thanks was offered to Colonel Henley for his services over the past year.
The next meeting was on 24 March at which it was decided to accept the tender made by Mr Cross for the field of £6 tithe free for the year from Lady Day 1897.
A cheque for £4.4.5d was authorised to pay interest due on the old Burial Board debt (this liability was taken on by the Council when it took on the responsibility for the Cemetery).
On 15 April the newly elected Council met. Colonel Henley was voted in as Chairman, William Pile and George Whinsley Overseers of the Poor and Mr. F.B.Fowler Vice-Chairman. Other members were Mr. Sylvester, Mr. Perham and Mr. Dommett.
Closure of the footpath leading from West Street to the Cemetery was discussed but no resolution passed .
The Clerk was instructed to write to Mr Persey (again!) for rent due on Lady Day.
There was only one meeting in the summer, on 11 June. Here the finances were sorted out. Mr Persey sent his cheque but asked for a discount, which was refused. Cheques were signed for the Cemetery Caretaker’s salary and grave digging, the tithe on the Parish Field and for the Winsham School account.
There were only two meetings held in the autumn. At the first on 14 September, concern was expressed about the condition of the footbridge over the river below Ford (no e) Abbey.
At the next meeting on 14 December the Chairman agreed to visit the owner, Mr Herbert Evans. This second meeting also discussed the provision of allotments in Winsham. The Clerk was tasked to obtain what information he could from other parishes before the next meeting.
The Rural District Council was quick to react .The “Inspector of Nuisances” at Crewkerne served notices to responsible owners.
The Burial Board books were returned at last and Mr Persey tried to have his rent for the Parish Field reduced but to no avail.
The meeting on March 30 voted unanimously to write to the Railway Company urging the necessity of a station at Winsham.
The meeting was held in the Jubilee Hall at 6.30pm. Colonel Henley was re-elected as Chairman. Topics discussed were, Winsham Station (a letter had been received from The Railway Company –a firm no), a reduction in rent on the Parish Field (decision delayed until next meeting), “nuisance in Back Street" (a task for The Sanitary Inspector in due course).
Mr F.B. Fowler was unanimously chosen as Vice-Chairman.
The topic of the Parish Field rent was raised by Mr Persey on May 12. He complained saying it was “£2 more than it is worth as well as paying the rates and taxes”. The Council disagreed but granted a 10% reduction for the current year. They then decided to let the field to tender from Lady Day with an advertisement in the paper.
On June 9 the Clerk was instructed to write to Mr W. Hodder as follows:
“The Parish Council wish to draw your attention to the unfair way of taking such large quantities of water from the wells in Fore St and that unless stopped they must take steps to protect the wells from being used in such a manner.”
At the meeting on 15 July it was decided to form a Water Committee to determine the state of the wells in Back Street.
The dispute over the Parish Field continued into August when the Clerk was told to write to Mr Persey asking for the payment of rent to Lady Day 1896 and to say that “unless paid without further delay the Council would be compelled to take proceedings for the recovery of the same.”
The first meeting of the Autumn was on 8 September. The only topic was the Parish Field rent. The Clerk was told to write to Mr Persey (having deliberately not done so since the last meeting) threatening a Court Summons unless payment was made by 15 September. Mr Persey sent his cheque before the deadline! However the Council decided to advertise the field to be let from Lady Day 1897 in Pulmans Weekly News.
The meetings leading up to Christmas were quiet with little business done apart from a proposal to buy a bier for the cemetery.
Colonel Henley was unable to attend due to illness. Despite this, he was elected Chairman for the next year. Mr Fowler took charge of this meeting. A letter was read from Mr D.Andrews offering to do the Overseers Office free in return for a salary as Clerk to the Burial Board! Council Members took on the task themselves! The salary was £21 a year. A second letter from Mr Andrews in his role as Clerk to the Burial Board stated that he could not return the accounts until he had seen the Manager of “Wilts and Dorset Bank” and had received fees due on headstones in the cemetery.
Fred Bridport asked for a playground for the school but the Council considered it outside their powers. It was decided to pay the clerk twenty five shillings for his services from December to April. The meeting lasted two hours.
Four meetings were held in the summer of 1895. A precept of £14 a year was made out for the Overseers, the duties of the Burial Board taken on by the Parish Council and its account moved to Stuckeys Banking Company. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr.R.Persey “with regard to rent of field which now falls into the hands of the Parish Council”.
Autumn saw some important issues coming to the fore. Back Street had no water supply at this time . Mr Sylvester said on 8th Oct. that at the next meeting he would propose “that the owners of property be called upon to accommodate their tenants with an adequate supply of water”. His idea received no support when the Council met on 12 November.
The saga of the Burial Board documents continued and the Council decided to call a Parish Meeting to consider the adoption of the “Lighting Act”. That meeting, held on 27 November, “resolved unanimously not to adopt the “Lighting Act”.
A report by the Medical Officer, Dr Stephens, recommended that the cesspools in Back Street be cleaned out! This was to be reported to the Rural District Council.
Chairman - Mr Northcombe. Members - Colonel Henley and Messrs Fowler, Sylvester, JH Hodder, Henry Marks and W.Hodder. Proposed by Mr Fowler and seconded by Councilor Marks, Colonel Henley was unanimously chosen as Chairman. Mr Fowler was elected Vice-Chairman. Mr Northcombe became Clerk and Mr A.D.Paul Treasurer. Mr J.H.Hodder was chosen to become Waywarden for Street and Leigh. A vote of thanks to Viscount Bridport for use of the Jubilee Hall concluded the meeting.
Further meetings were held in both the Jubilee Hall and Schoolroom before the annual meeting on April 17 1895. Subjects discussed concerned the water supply, school lighting, location of the parish map and the business of The Burial Board.
