Chris Flynn

You will have read about the sad loss of Cllr Robin Cooper who was a parish councillor for 28 years and indeed had been Chairman of the Parish Council. I would just like to say that all who he helped including my family and myself will miss him. Robin was one of the most sincere and the kindest of people you could meet and it was an honour to be able to say he was my friend.
Grounds
At this time of year the only thing that slows done around the Parish is the speed at which the grass grows. Steve, Mick and Leigh continue to work hard and keep the Parish Grounds in tip top condition.
Fireworks
The fireworks night was a big success and may thanks to the Pyro 1 Fireworks team for putting on a fantastic display to music. I’ve been told that it was as good as St Albans who charge to see their display. I’d also like to thank the ground staff, who as ever work hard to make sure things go smoothly, the marshals including the Scouts, St Peters Church, Bomansgreen and London Colney JMI schools and The women’s section of the Royal British Legion and Parish councillors. The money raised will be shared between the groups who helped on the night (not the Councillors!).
Budget
We will soon be looking at our budget and deciding our precept for next year. This will be based on expenditure to date, end of year-projected expenditure and on expected expenditure next year. We take into account all sorts of things including wages, bills, grants and projects, just to name a few. We try to help as many people as possible and can make one off budgeted items. One such item is the Scout’s hut roof.
Having been told some months ago by one of the Scouts organisers that they need a new roof I suggested that they apply for a grant from the Council. We have received this now and I am hoping that councillors can support me in agreeing a one of sum towards this.
Fundraising
Other fundraising events include the Annual Parish Christmas Ball to be held at the Pastoral Centre on the 18th December and the Carol singing which Cllr Dreda Gordon organises down at Sainsbury’s. These 2 events raise about £1500 a year and the money raised goes towards non-profit making organisations in the Village.
Sunday the 8th of November saw a large crowd gather for Remembrance Sunday. We had a Piper from the Black Watch lead the parade to the War Memorial. It was an honour for me as Parish Council Chairman to lead the Parade. The service was given by Peter Laws who lead us in prayer and hymns of remembrance.
I would especially like to thank Lou Odell who was the Parade Marshall for travelling from the Isle of Wight to be with us on Remembrance Day.