Vacancies exist for Parish Councillors, what is it like being one?

To see the answer, Nicky Ellis describes her experiences below; first to the issue at hand.  Following the May meeting, there is one Parish Councillor vacancy for Peldon and three vacancies for Salcott and Virley.

Notices will be displayed in due course, the closing date for applications is 5th June.

For more details, or to apply, please telephone our Secretary Sue Pullen on 01206 735367 or email [email protected].

Nicky’s Story

I tried to remember when I started – I was co-opted onto the Winstred 100 Parish Council in May 2007, I think, and almost immediately raised my hand to offer help with a new Parish Project.  This brought together ideas and input from the whole community resulting in our Village Design Statement and Parish Plan.

What I really enjoyed most (apart from the visits to the pub after each PC meet!) was the chance to get to know other parishioners who were all interested in supporting the community they love. Some residents have been here all their lives with deep knowledge of the area, its amazing history and how each village has developed. Other newbies like me (2000) can bring in different skills.  I work in the NHS so will always want a say in any health matters!

Team Spirit & Friendships

That is what is easy with this Parish Council – everyone is encouraged to participate, everyone’s opinion is valued. The effort you put in is not onerous, meetings once a month, emails on a variety of subjects we are asked to comment on e.g. local planning and we are all kept in check by our very efficient Clerk Sue Pullen. I have learnt so much (just go onto the website and take a look at past minutes!) and made good friends.

I have no doubt that in a few years I shall be putting myself forward to stand again, as others have – but right now I have a Gardening Club to build up! So thank you to all the Parish Councilors who have supported (and raised a glass with) me, I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of this team.

Nicky Ellis

And a bit about the Council

The Winstred Hundred Parish Council comprises Peldon, Great and Little Wigborough, Salcott and Virley and requires nine councillors. Meetings are held 11 times each year alternating between Abbots Hall Farm, Great Wigborough, Salcott Village Hall and Peldon & Wigboroughs Community Hall.

The responsibilities of the Parish Council are integral with CBC and have a strong community aspect. The Parish Council is the most microelement of this Country’s demographic process. Normally Councillors are elected; when vacancies arise mid-term, applicants are selected & co-opted by the Council without an election.

Councillors come from all walks of life, there are no specific criteria applied to those individuals wishing to be considered. Do you enjoy living in your Village?  If so, and you want to be involved in your community, being a Councillor could be exactly right for you.

If you would like to attend the next Parish Council Meeting come to Abbots Hall Farm, Great Wigborough,CO5 7RZ, Tuesday 12th June, 7.30pm.