Progress was reported at our July meeting on some of our ongoing drainage problems: By the Crown, one drain has been cleared, and the water running down Brick Lane has been tracked to a broken (fresh)-water pipe. Action is programmed and the Parish Council will continue to monitor progress.

We were pleased to hear of Bill Wiggins’s (our M.P.) support to the proposal at the junction of Tanhouse Lane and the A4103. Herefordshire Council’s response was not enthusiastic but we shall continue to press the point on the grounds of road safety.

Concern was raised about the absence of cat-eyes on part of the A4103 through Storridge, but there was praise for those on the Seed Farm section. It was agreed to raise the matter with the Transport Planners and request that the new type is installed throughout. We felt by raising the matter now we may have the issue resolved before the autumn mists are upon us.

Moving on to winter, sandbags are being made available once more for properties that may be affected by flooding. If you think you may need some, act now by contacting Chris Lowder on 880282.

BT has extended the date until which it will accept letters challenging the removal of the payphones at Bearswood and at the New Inn, Storridge. Please write to BT by 31 July if you want your views to count.

The Council is seeking out funding sources to provide an automatic clock winding mechanism for the "Church" clock. This clock was given to the village to commemorate the end of the First World War and we wish it to continue in service as part of our living heritage.

The prize money of £500 from the Best Villages Competition will be donated to funds to help create a garden area at the back of Cradley Village Hall.

The Parish Council heard from the Parish Plan Steering Group of the events being organised by the Lanes and Footpaths Working Group: a School Event on 7 July to make parents more aware of the possibilities of walking to the new school; on Saturday 31 July, a Walking Event, open to all, starting from the newly restored Cradley Village Hall. The Council agreed to bear the costs of posters etc.

The Agenda for Parish Council meetings is displayed at Finchers Corner, the Butchers, the Post Office and on the notice board at Storridge Village Hall at least 3 clear days before each meeting. Copies of the minutes for the last 2 years are held at Cradley Post Office. The next Parish Council Meeting is on Tuesday 10 August at Storridge Village Hall. Mrs M Barnett, Clerk to the Council can be contacted on 01531 635 103.

Sally Ramsden