Agenda item

Middle East Conflict

The Chairman expressed the Council’s solidarity with innocent civilians in the middle east, in light of the ongoing violence in the region.  As the Council met this evening, its thoughts were with all those affected. 

Members noted that the Council would continue to work with partners to support local communities, recognising the impact of these recent events.

Former Cllr Graham Wales

The Chairman referred with great sadness to the recent passing of former Cllr Graham Wales.  Graham was first elected in 1983 to the Lymington Town ward and served continuously for 12 years, until 1995.

Graham served most notably on the Policy and Resources and Housing Committees.  He was Vice-Chairman of the Housing Committee from 1987 to 1989.  He represented the District Council on a number of local outside bodies including the Lymington Harbour Commissioners and Lymington CAB.

The Chairman extended his sincere condolences to Graham’s family and friends and placed on record the Council’s thanks for his service to the District.

Engagements

The Chairman reported on the following engagements that had taken place since the last Council meeting:-

13 September

He attended the Civic Day of the Mayor of Christchurch and was provided a guided walking tour, taking in some historical points presented by the Christchurch History Society.  There was also an escorted tour of Christchurch Priory, where volunteers discussed the story of the Priory which went back to at least the middle of the 11th century.

14 September

The Mayor of Test Valley hosted a Showcasing Event.  This involved a great presentation and interesting tour of the Army Flying Museum.

19 September

He attended the Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council Civic Afternoon.  There was an introductory meeting with the collections House Manager, Dominque Shemby and then a tour of Vyne House and Gardens.

21 September

He attended the grand opening of Namaste Hub dementia unit and cut the ribbon to officially open the Hub at Carpathia Grange in Hythe.  Meeting the staff and residents was extremely rewarding and interesting.

29 September

Applemore Leisure Centre was the location of the NFDC Charity Football Tournament on 29 September.  The Chairman enjoyed presenting a trophy to the winning team from Revenues and Benefits.  This raised money for the Minstead Trust.

1 October

He attended a traditional harvest thanksgiving in Winchester, bringing together traditions, readings, hymns and choral music.  A donation was also provided towards the Winchester Food Bank. This was followed by the Winchester Green Week Gathering.  The Chair, Jo Crocker and Cadet Lizzy Kitchenside of Salvation Army provided a talk, and the cathedral girls choir and renowned soprano Lucy Hole sang.  The Winchesters Dance Team also took part.

7 October

He attended the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane’s Variety Show, with funds raised in support of the Mayor’s Charity Appeal.

8 October

He attended the High Sheriff of Hampshire’s Law Sunday Service.

9 October

The Chairman joined Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal at Avon Tyrell – UK Youth’s Outdoor Learning Centre.  A charity which seeks to equip young people to thrive at early stages of their lives.