- Present
- Cllr M. Pearson (Chairman), Cllr D. Whitfield (Vice-Chairman), Cllr S. Iqbal, Cllr A. Foxton, Cllr D. Marsh, Cllr P. Hollis, Cllr R. Yeoman, Cllr K. Ashworth
- In attendance
- Mrs L. Carrow (Clerk & RFO), County Cllr J. Wetherby, 2 members of the public
- Apologies
- none
1. Welcome and Apologies for Absence
All members were present.
2. Declarations of Interest
None.
3. Public Participation
A resident raised concern about the condition of the churchyard boundary wall adjoining the playing field. An allotment holder reported a good turnout at this year's produce show.
4. Minutes of the Previous Meeting
The minutes of the meeting held on 12 August 2025 were RESOLVED as a true record and signed.
5. Matters Arising
The vehicle activated sign had been installed on the High Street lamp column near the school and became operational on 1 September; early data was being logged for review.
6. Allotments
The annual produce show had been held and was well attended. The Clerk agreed to write to the Women's Institute regarding hosting arrangements for next year.
7. Planning
The decision notice for 25/01033/FUL (agricultural building, Mill Farm) had been received: approved by Averbury District Council with the requested condition restricting construction working hours. RESOLVED to note, with thanks to the planning officer for taking the Council's comments into account.
8. Churchyard Boundary Wall
Following item 3, it was noted that the Council is responsible for a section of the churchyard boundary wall adjoining the playing field, which was showing signs of movement. It was RESOLVED that the Clerk obtain a structural inspection and repair quotation.
9. County and District Councillors' Reports
Cllr Wetherby updated the Council on Mereshire County Council's budget-setting timetable for 2026/27 and invited the parish's input on local priorities ahead of the Council's own precept discussion.
10. Finance
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Balance brought forward | £31,807.98 |
| Clerk's salary (September) | £412.60 |
| HMRC – PAYE/NI | £58.40 |
| Westcotec – vehicle activated sign | £1,890.00 |
| Room hire | £15.00 |
| Royal British Legion – wreath (ordered early) | £34.00 |
| Balance carried forward | £47,397.98 |
The second instalment of the 2025/26 precept, £18,000.00, was received from Averbury District Council during September and is reflected above.
11. Budget and Precept 2026/27
The Clerk was asked to prepare a draft budget and precept proposal for 2026/27 for consideration at the October meeting, taking into account the playground replacement reserve, a contingency for the churchyard wall repair, and the ongoing running costs of Speedwatch and the vehicle activated sign.
12. Correspondence
None requiring discussion.
13. Any Other Business
None raised.
14. Date of Next Meeting
Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 7.30pm, Thornwick Village Hall.
The meeting closed at 9.15pm.
Signed (Chairman) Date: ____________________
Thornwick St Mary Parish Council — Clerk to the Council: Mrs L. Carrow — clerk@thornwickstmarypc-demo.org.uk — These minutes are draft until formally approved and signed at the next meeting of the Council.