Dear All

This is a quick email to keep you all updated on possible charging on the Bog Car Park.

Mark Blount of Outdoor Partnerships - the old Countryside unit -came to the Parish Council at Stiperstones last night to float the idea of asking for voluntary contributions for parking on the car park. His ideas are far from set in stone - as yet - and were thoroughly discussed by the Parish. The basic idea was to try to obtain some income towards the upkeep of the car park from tourists and other visitors. He has no budget for continued upkeep.

Fire Service.

Many that's to all of you who signed the petition to save Shropshire's Fire service. Lets hope that all the signatures collected will make the Police and Crime Commissioner for west Mercia think twice about his ill-considered takeover plans!

Mobile Libraries

Shropshire Council is consulting on the future of our Library Service. I am concerned that they are trying to reduce the number of mobile library stops across the County - from 357 to 277 stops. This would have a significant impact on the service in our very rural area. Please take part in this consultation to make them realise just how valued this service is. You can get paper copies of the consultation from libraries (and I assume the van!) or go on line at http://new.shropshire.gov.uk/get-involved/draft-library-services-strategy-for-shropshire-2018-to-2023/

Dear Editor

There are many women living in Shropshire born on or after 6^th April 1951 who will not qualify for their pensions at the age of 60. The problem is that the Government changed their pension age in 1995 but failed to tell them until it was too late to upgrade their pensions. Many are now facing considerable hardship.

Community grants.
If you are a member of a local club or community group, please remember that Chirbury and Rhiston Parish Council have a small grants pot that may be able to help you with your activities. Grants of up to £250 have been awarded. To apply contact the Parish Clerk on Tim.ward@btconnect.com or myself on the email/phone number below.

Heather says:

I am having reports of some very poor and dangerous driving in the area. These include people breaking the speed limit and overtaking on double white lines. I have had a number of reports on both the A490 between Chirbury and Churchstoke - particularly around the Marrington Hall turning - and also on the B4386 near the turnings to Aston Pigott and Rogers. Both these stretches of road have concealed turnings and dips in the road - hence their dangerous nature. Accidents do happen on both roads and are sometimes serious. The A488 also suffers from dangerous drivers.