ongratulations are in order with the news that Whiteparish has come second in its category in the county round of this year’s Best Kept Village Competition, which was sponsored by Hills.

The council would like to thank all the villagers for their continued support and hard work in making Whiteparish such a lovely area.

The judges commented that the new Memorial Centre constitutes a great improvement on the old pavilion and the recreation ground was generally kept in a good condition.

Villagers’ gardens were well-tended and it was noted that the area around the pubs and shop were all very clean and tidy and there was no litter.

Unfortunately, there were no volunteers forthcoming to take part in Neighbourhood Watch. The police regret that there have been no volunteers but, if you see anything suspicious, call 101 to report concerns that do not require an emergency response, such as a stolen car or damage to property.

You should dial 999 when it is an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, someone suspected of a crime is nearby, when there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.

Landowners are asked to ensure their ditches are cleared to further reduce the flood risk to neighbours and residents.

The council is dismayed that green waste material is being tipped on the common land near the school and would llike to remind residents this is an illegal practice.

Wiltshire Council is always looking for volunteers for path clearing.

If you are able to assist please contact the clerk on 01722 711858.

Unfortunately, it has been a poor year in general for apples and damsons at the Copse. Therefore there will be bluebell planting and some clearance work instead.

This will take place on October 4, from 10am-noon.

If you are attending please bring a trowel if you have one.

For further information telephone 01225 718647 or email countryside@wiltshire .gov.uk.

There is a vacancy on the council – contact the parish clerk or a councillor for further information.

The next meeting of the council will take place on Thursday, October 16 at 7.30pm.

Villagers are invited to attend.

Please inform the clerk, Maria Pennington by calling her on 01722 711858 or any councillor if you are unable to attend and wish to raise any matter concerning the village.