Sowerby Parish Council

A SOLUTION to the problem of heavy goods vehicles crashing into Blakey Bridge, Sowerby, is to be costed. Councillor Don Cartridge designed a simple way of solving the problem of large lorries turning into the lane from the main road by creating an island at the country lane approach to the parish. He has submitted it to Hambleton District Council on two previous occasions. Up to now, no action has been taken and road engineers are looking at expensive alternatives. However, a new look is now to be taken at the design and planning officers from the district council have reported that Coun Cartridge's scheme is to be costed.

FLAGPOLE HOPES: It is hop-ed that a new flagpole will be erected outside the town hall in time for the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations. A new one was to be purchased following the removal of the old flagpole, but Hambleton District Council offered one from its stock. Unfortunately, it has not arrived yet so councillors erected a makeshift flagpole to mark the death of the Queen Mother. The chairman, Councillor Don Stratton, reported that he had sent a letter of condolence on behalf of the council to the Queen.

land needed: Concerned that the churchyard was becoming full at Sowerby, contact has been made with the owner of a plot of adjoining land, on behalf of the church. The owner has intimated that he would be willing to lease the land. This information would now be passed on to the church, said Coun Stratton.

\rperby Parish Council

TRAFFIC WORRIES: The urgent need for traffic calming measures in the village was emphasised at the recent annual meeting. County councillor John Blackie had taken along Ian Beighton, from the North Yorkshire area traffic office, who listened as villagers told him about the problem of speeding motorists. They said there was no continuous pavement through the village, which made it very difficult for the children on their way to and from the school bus. Various suggestions were put forward, including bar markings, the replacement of more noticeable warning and yellow 30mph signs, and a traffic survey by the police.

FUN FOR ALL: The Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations in the village will span three days and will suit all ages. Plans for this were approved at the meeting.

Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe Parish Council

SPEED POSER: It was noted that the speed sign restrictions had been extended on the approach down Plump Bank, to Thirsk, and there was a discussion about whether this was a result of a change in regulations. The clerk agreed to write to the highways authority asking for a review of the start of the 30mph restriction on the western approach to Sutton.

GOLDEN REMINDER: The possibility of a bus shelter for schoolchildren was being explored, as a lasting memento of the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

DIARY DATE: The next meeting will be the combined annual, parish and parish council meetings on May 20, starting at 7.15pm, in the village institute.