The general meeting of St. Mary Out Liberty Community Council was held on December 11 at New Hedges Village Hall.

Present were Clrs. D. Brace (chairman), H. Rawson Humphries (vice-chair), J. Preston, D. Nash, D. O’Hanlon and D. Mitchell

In attendance was Melanie Priestley - clerk.

Clr. Brace reported that a good number of New Hedges residents attended at the Village Hall to witness the turning on of the Christmas lights and join in with the singing of Christmas carols while enjoying the mulled wine and mince pies.

Thanks were given to George and Thomas Nash for their assistance in putting the Christmas tree up and Mr. Reed for kindly donating the tree once again.

A prepared budget report was perused by all councillors. Discussion took place regarding the 2019/20 budget and the need for the council to have monies ready to pay for any elections within St. Mary Out Liberty community. Also consideration was given to the fact that the community council may have to provide and pay for additional services already supplied by the county council, e.g. grass and hedgerow cutting.

Clr. Brace proposed that St. Mary Out Liberty Community Council set a precept for 2019/2020 of £5,600, an increase of £500; Clr. Mitchell seconded the proposal, with all council in full agreement.

Next meeting is January 8, at 6.30 pm.