Notices and Information
Warnings, Alerts and Scam Notices
See our separate WARNINGS AND SCAMS page for information about scams, rogue traders and other alerts in our area.
Update: Refuse and Recycling Changes from August 2008 to April 2009
From August 2008 the District Council's Refuse and Recycling service is changing. The new and improved service aims to:
- Decrease the District's waste
- Increase recycling
- Save taxpayers' money
Above all, helping you not to let your rubbish cost the Earth.
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu), June 2008
Final Update On Oxfordshire Outbreak
Since the beginning of June when the Oxfordshire Avian Influenza outbreak was first discovered, Warwickshire Trading Standards has sought to keep its stakeholders and all interested parties up to date on progress to contain and eradicate the disease, and to support DEFRA, Animal Health and Warwickshire's farming community.
As a result of the disease control measures undertaken, Animal Health (previously the State Veterinary Service) has now announced that the restrictions placed around the infected premise are to be relaxed. On Friday 28th June, the 3km Protection Zone surrounding the infected farm was revoked and incorporated into the surrounding Surveillance Zone.
Restrictions still apply to premises in the Surveillance Zone, but these are less stringent than those that pertained to the Protection Zone, reflecting the improving disease situation. A map showing the extent of the zones and restriction details can be seen on the DEFRA website at www.defra.gov.uk
Farms in the Surveillance Zone must continue to take heightened bio-security measures to contain the disease and prevent further spreading.
DEFRA have reported that active surveillance in the area has shown no evidence of disease spread and infection appears to be confined to the infected premise.
Warwickshire Trading Standards Animal Health Officers will continue to support Warwickshire farmers to implement bio-security measures and advise them on animal movement restrictions. The Service also remains ready to support DEFRA and Animal Health if and when another Avian Influenza outbreak should occur.
Can I take this opportunity to thank all our colleagues for their help and support throughout this period.
Information can continue to be accessed on our website: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards or on the DEFRA site: www.defra.gov.uk
Update 11 June 2008
"I can report that further to recent Avian flu outbreak near Banbury the situation seems to have stabilised with no further cases of the disease discovered."
Key briefing points:
- Testing has been carried out on a number of suspect bird deaths since last week, all of which have reported negative.
- The 10km and 3km control zones that were set up around the premises, much of which were in Warwickshire are still subject to certain restrictions. These will remain in place until further notice.
- All 24,000 laying hens formerly kept at the infected premises have been culled and disposed of, extensive cleansing and disinfecting continues on this premises. The cause of the outbreak remains unclear.
- Trading Standards staff have worked with DEFRA colleagues to identify all kept birds in the area so that necessary checks can be carried out.
- The H7N7 strain of Avian Influenza does not carry a significant public health risk.
- All footpaths remain open.
- Bird gatherings and sales, outside of the control zones (including Henley Market) may still operate.
- Warwickshire Trading Standards Service, who are leading the WCC response have been in close contact with all stakeholders, including the regional and national agencies; the NFU; Oxfordshire County Council as well as District and borough partners.
Update 9 June 2008
An outbreak of Avian Influenza has been confirmed on a premise near Shennington (Oxfordshire). The disease is the Highly Pathogenic H7 strain, not H5N1.
The flock affected are approximately 24,000 free range layers. 3km and 10km zones have been established around the premise and both zones extend in to Warwickshire.
It is vital that all bird keepers in the UK continue to maintain good biosecurity and be vigilant for any signs of disease. If you are concerned about the health of your birds you should seek advice from your veterinary surgeon. If you suspect that your birds have avian influenza, you should report it to your local Defra Animal Health Office (Leicester) immediately.
For more information on Avian Influenza, visit the Defra website
Advice to Poultry Keepers in Warwickshire
Biosecurity: Keepers of birds are urged to be vigilant and to exercise good biosecurity. Any owners that suspect disease should act quickly and consult their vet. Avian influenza is a notifiable disease and must be reported to Animal Health. Warwickshire keepers must report suspect cases to the Animal Health Divisional Office Leicester on 0116 278 7451.
GB Poultry Register: Keepers of 50 or more birds are reminded that they are required to register their premise with the GB Poultry Register. Keepers with less than 50 birds are encourage to register of a voluntary basis. To register phone 0800 634 1112 or visit the Defra website.
Information for the Public
Public Health: There is no reason for public health concern. Avian influenza is a disease of birds and whilst it can pass very rarely and with difficulty to humans, this requires extremely close contact with infected birds, particularly faeces. Advice from the Food Standards Agency remains that properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
Access to the Countryside: During an avian influenza outbreak there is little need to restrict access to land by closing footpaths or other land to which there is a right of access. If access to land does need to be restricted, clear and up-to-date information would be provided as to where those areas are. There should therefore, be no need for people to stop visiting the countryside or parks and gardens.
Reporting dead birds: If you find single dead wild gulls, waders, ducks, geese or swans and you are within a survey area (Warwickshire is in the survey area), or are unsure whether you are in a surveillance area please contact the Defra helpline 08459 33 55 77 and choose the Avian Influenza option which will be open from 6am to 10pm. You will be asked for details of your finding and its location.
If you find any other single dead birds, including garden birds then you do not need to call the Defra helpline.
If you find die offs involving 10 or more dead birds of the same species or from different species in the same place you should contact the Defra Helpline 08459 33 55 77 and choose the Avian Influenza option which will be open from 6am to 10pm.
Handling a dead bird: Wild birds can carry several diseases that are infectious to people. Although the risk of Avian Influenza may be low, birds can carry other respiratory infections. Birds can also carry infections which can cause gastrointestinal infections such as Salmonella and Campylobacter.
If dead birds are handled, it is important to wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible. Avoid touching your face and certainly do not eat until you have washed your hands. Clean any soiling on clothing with soap and water.
Sent on behalf of Mark Ryder, Head of Warwickshire Trading Standards
Dear Colleagues,
This is this latest update from Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards on the present situation.
Chief Veterinary Officer Nigel Gibbens yesterday confirmed that the strain of Avian Influenza found on the premises near Banbury in Oxfordshire is highly pathogenic H7N7. Preliminary analysis also indicates that this H7N7 strain is likely to be related to viruses which have occasionally been detected in domestic poultry and wild birds elsewhere in Europe. Further laboratory tests are in progress.
The full epidemiological investigation and tracings of any dangerous contacts are underway and all possible sources of the outbreak will be investigated.
The Health Protection Agency has confirmed that the risk to public health remains low. Following confirmation of the virus subtype as H7N7, the Agency has reviewed current procedures based on the best evidence available. They remain confident that all necessary steps are being taken to protect those people who may have been exposed to the virus on the premises or involved in disease control activities.
Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards Service is leading the Warwickshire response to this incident and is following the contingency plan for avian influenza.
Links have been established with Oxfordshire Trading Standards and measures are being put in place with regard for the potential need for road signage etc.
We also remain in regular contact with Health Protection Agency, DEFRA, Emergency Planning, Warwickshire Police and other Warwickshire County Council Services.
Warwickshire Trading Standards will shortly issue written information to Warwickshire farmers. This will include advice and information on bio-security, movement restrictions on birds and details of our helpline number (01926 736470). We have also advised Warwickshire County Council's Customer Service Centre and Consumer Direct West Midlands of the number.
The Department for Environment Farming & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has now replaced the Temporary Control Zone. The 3km inner zone is now a Protection Zone and the 10km outer zone around the infected premise is a Surveillance Zone.
All poultry keepers on the GB Poultry Register are being notified of the outbreak and the EU Commission has been informed.
Culling of poultry on the infected premises commenced on the 5th and disposal of the dead birds will be at a rendering plant (De Mulder & Sons) near Nuneaton.
Information on Dredging Rivers
This information from the Environment Agency is about dredging rivers, particularly in regard to flooding
Perkins' Educational Foundation Awards for 2008/09
The Governors of this charity, founded in 1656 by William Perkins of Salford Priors and London, invite applications for awards from young people under the age of 25. Grants are available to help with expenses in courses of study in further and higher education, vocational training such as apprenticeships, and in some circumstances, structured programmes of personal development such as overseas visits. Awards are not normally given to those under 17 years of age.
Applicants must have been resident in one of the following parishes - Salford Priors, Bidford, Kings Broom, Cleeve Prior or Harvington - for not less than two years immediately prior to their application.
Application forms are available, upon written request only, from the Clerk to the Governors.
Forms for applicants who wish to be considered for an award for the academic year 2009-2009 will be available from 1 May 2008.
Completed forms should be returned to the Clerk not later than 15 October 2008.No applications received after that date can be accepted for consideration by the Governors for the academic year 2008-2009.
Applicants may be required to attend before the Governors for an interview at a time and place to be notified in due course by the Clerk.
Dated 1 May 2008.
The Clerk to the Governors
Perkins' Educational Foundation
10 Elm Court
Arden Street
Stratford-upon-Avon
CV37 6PA.
Poll Result: Election of a District Councillor for Bidford and Salford Ward
At the election on Thursday 1 May 2008, Kim Antony James (Independent) was duly elected Councillor for the Bidford and Salford Ward.
Local Involvement Networks Explained
This leaflet from the Department of Health explains the concept of Local Involvement Networks (LINk) - a network of local people, organisations and groups that want to make care services better.
International Biodiversity Day
International Biodiversity Day is on Thursday 22 May 2008, and people are being urged to 'DO ONE THING' to help the planet, the environment or our wildlife.
The flyer below gives some suggestions on how you can join in and start doing something to help from 22nd May onwards.
National Flood Forum's 'Blue Pages'
This is a directory of flood protection products and services put together to advise and inform you of the range of products available to help you protect your home or business against flooding.
Whilst the National Flood Forum cannot endorse any of these products they are happy to provide a platform to enable the public to make informed decisions.
Environmental Art Challenge
Warwickshire Residents are being invited to take part in an Environmental Art Challenge. This competition is open to all Warwickshire residents aged 16 years and over. For younger age groups Warwickshire schools have also been invited to take part.
The competition is being run by Warwickshire County Council's Sustainability team, to encourage local people to think more about environmental issues. Prizes include Nintendo Wii, Electrisave meter and a family ticket to Compton Verney.
Participants are being asked to submit an A4 sized piece of art work in any medium, looking at the causes, consequences and solutions to the problems and challenges our environment faces.
The event hopes to get a wide range of art covering issues such as travel, energy use and waste.
Deadline for submission of work is 2 June 2008, with work being displayed throughout July at Shire Hall, Warwick and later during the year at Stratford Gallery, Stratford on Avon.
For further information contact emmaclarke@warwickshire.gov.uk or call 01926 418036. Additional information can be found at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/environmentalartchallenge
Life Well Link - New Information
Centre
Have you or anyone you know received a diagnosis of a serious illness? Do you have lots of questions and no answers?
...if so, then we can help with information and support.
Call us on 01789 416959 or pop in for a coffee (10.00am to 4.00pm). No appointment necessary. Leafelets are also available in the Parsih Council office.
Life Well Link, Stratford Healthcare Building One (first floor above the coffee shop), Arden Street, Stratford-upon-Avon.
Life Well Link is a service developed and provided by The Shakespeare Hospice Registered Charity No 1064091.
DVD of the Floods
The DVD of the floods is now available at many of the local shops. Price £8.99. It is entitled 'Bidford-IN-Avon: The record flood of July 21st 2007 at Bidford-on-Avon'.
Great Britain Online have filmed before and after the floods, and done some research into previous (historical) floods.
DVD is also for sale at www.greatbritainonline.co.uk
Your Photographs
We are delighted to announce a new addition to this web site - a showcase for your own photographs of the parish.
The photographs can be seen on our new Bidford - Your Photos page.
If you would like to submit your own photograph(s) for this page, please email them to the Parish Clerk, and don't forget to include your full name and provide a short title for each photograph.
Alcester Hospital Consultation
Below are various documents relating to the Alcester Hospital Consultation.
- Statement read by Councillor Eric Payne at the Warwickshire PCT Board Meeting on 30 Jan 2008.
- Report to the PCT Board presented by Paul Maubach.
- Presentation 'Healthcare in the Alcester area' made to Alcester Town Council.
- Presentation 'Commissioning for a Healthy Warwickshire' by David Rose, Chief Executive Warwickshire PCT.
Taster Courses at Crawford Memorial Hall
Bidford-on-Avon Baptist Church are organising and sponsoring five different 'taster courses', running on four Tuesday evenings in February/March. The courses on offer are:
- Sugar Craft and Cake Decorating
- Art and Craft
- Good Parenting Guide
- An Introduction to Motorcycling
- Using Computers in Digital Photography
Dates: 12 Feb, 19 Feb, 26 Feb, 4 Mar, from 8pm to 9.30pm.
Contact Neil Dunlop for further information or to book a place on 01789 772615, or by email at nsdunlop@bidfordbaptistchurch.org.uk
Response to Questions Asked by Bidford PC to the Community Protection Overview and Scrutiny Committee
In respect of the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Services Review, the Parish Council asked three questions. The responses from Warwickshire County Council are shown below:
Q1: We asked that no decision will be made before a full and proper consultation has taken place and the consultation to include the closure of specific stations with full and detailed reasons to be given for any benefits forthcoming from the proposed closures.
- Response: The County Council will ensure that meaningful consultation is undertaken with residents regarding all proposals. Detailed information regarding benefits of all proposals will be publicly available.
Q2: We asked that the talks are restricted to Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue and not, as has been speculated in the press, with Staffordshire, Hereford and Worcester and the West Midlands to create a West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service similar to what was created for the ambulance services.
- Response: In line with the Cabinets decision on 6th September 2007 discussions will focus on a possible combination scheme with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
Q3: We asked that no resident in the County will suffer due to any changes made ie. the service provided to each and every household and/or business will remain the same or be improved.
- Response: All possible options will be impact assessed to ensure there is no adverse effect upon service delivery.
New Waste Management Contract for Stratford District Council
Stratford-on-Avon District Council retains a weekly collection of food waste and will collect cardboard and plastic bottles.
The District Council is determined to safeguard the environment for future generations.
Stratford-on-Avon District Council has seized the opportunity to provide residents with a kerbside collection of plastic bottles and cardboard and the new contract will retain a weekly collection of food waste.
The new service will also operate at less cost than the existing arrangements and with residents help provide the opportunity to make Stratford-on-Avon the leading recycling district in the country.
Dr. Patrick (Paddy) Doherty
It was with sadness that members of the Parish Council and many residents heard of the death of Dr. 'Paddy' Doherty on Sunday 4th November 2007.
A servant of the Bidford-on-Avon community, he was a member of the Bidford Parish Council during the 1950's as well as a member of the Alcester Rural Council. It was through his tireless efforts that St. Joseph's Church was built to serve the Roman Catholic community in Bidford and surrounding villages.
The Funeral Service will be held in St. Joseph's on Friday 16th November at 11.00 am. No flowers but donations, if desired, for Myton Hospice may be sent to David Baker funeral director, 98 High Street, Bidford-on-Avon, B50 4AF.
Fire Fighters' Appeal
Following the tragic event last weekend at Atherstone-on-Stour, which resulted in the death of four local fire fighters, Bidford-on-Avon Parish Council is supporting a Fire Fighter’s Appeal.
Collection boxes are available in the following places: Card Shop, Post Office, Bulls Head, Salon 44, Bakers, Newsagent, Hardware, Alan Ball, Annandos, The Bridge Inn, Frog & B, Cottage of Content, Budgens, Broom Post Office, Peter Dickenson, Gordons (butchers)
OUR LOCAL FIGHTERS RISK THEIR LIVES FOR THE COMMUNITY – LET US SHOW OUR APPRECIATION
Bidford Fire Station Update
QUESTION TO THE COMMUNITY PROTECTION OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE TUESDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 2007
Following the decision at the Council Cabinet meeting of 6th September 2007 to accept the recommendation to positively explore the viability of joining forces with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Services, (HWFRS), and, bearing in mind the numerous rumours circulating in the local press throughout Warwickshire and neighbouring counties, can the Council assure the residents of Warwickshire that:
- No decision will be made before a full and proper consultation has taken place (we do not want a repeat of the ambulance services consultation, when the decision clearly predated the consultation).
- The consultation to include the closure of specific stations with full and detailed reasons to be given for any benefits forthcoming from the proposed closures.
- The talks are restricted to HWFRS and not, as has been speculated in the press, with Staffordshire, Hereford and Worcester and the West Midlands to create a West Midlands Fire and Rescue Services similar to what was created for the ambulance services.
- No resident in the County will suffer due to any changes made i.e. the service provided to each and every household and/or business will remain the same or be improved.
Alcester Youth Project
Alcester Youth Project is looking for new members aged 13 to 19.
A place to be warm and dry...
We have pool, table football, air hockey, table tennis, comfy sofas and a stereo. Feel free to bring your own CDs to listen to.
We can offer you impartial advice, planned activities during term time and holidays, be someone to talk to or just a place to hang out.
All this for just 50p a night! Come and drop by on Thursday evenings during term time from 7.00 to 9.00pm at the old Moorefield School port-a-cabins.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
For more information phone: 01527 852472 or 07978 620895
Movement Control Information
Bluetongue
- The whole of Warwickshire is in a Bluetongue Protection Zone.
- You are permitted to move susceptible livestock between farms in the Bluetongue disease protection zone and from a farm outside the protection zone to a farm inside the protection zone. You are not permitted to move susceptible livestock from farms inside the protection zone, to farms outside the protection zone.
- You are permitted to move susceptible livestock from farm to slaughter. If this is to an abattoir outside the Bluetongue Protection Zone it must be an approved abattoir under licence EXD 457. Movements originating in the Bluetongue Protection Zone must be completed (with animals arriving at the slaughterhouse) by 15:00 at the latest. Before the animals are loaded on to the vehicle, the inside of the animal compartment must be treated with a residual insecticidal spray licensed by the Health and Safety Executive.
Foot and Mouth
- As from 0001 17 October the Foot and Mouth rules were relaxed and Warwickshire is now in the 'FMD Free Area' which means Warwickshire livestock farmers can assume business as usual (apart from the Bluetongue restrictions) under The Disease Control Order 2003 as was the case before the Foot and Mouth outbreak. However, there is still an FMD Risk Area which includes a neighbouring authority, Oxfordshire where movements are still controlled and there are still restrictions on exports of meat from our area. Livestock are not permitted to move from an FMD risk area to an FMD risk free area.
Full List of Licences & Conditions
- The full licence conditions for animal movements can be found on the DEFRA website.
Notice of Completion of Audit
Notice is hereby given that the Audit for Bidford-on-Avon for the year ended 31 March 2007 was completed on 15 October 2007.
Elisabeth Uggerløse
Clerk to the Parish Council
Fire and Rescue Service Review
Read the independent review of the medium to long term plans of the Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service - dated August 2007.
Notice of adoption of the Code of Conduct for Parish and Town Councils
Bidford-on-Avon Parish Council adopted the Local Authorities (Model Code of Conduct) Order 2007 No. 1159 for Parish and Town Councils, including Paragraph 12(2) on 20th August 2007.
Copies of the adopted Code of Conduct are available at the Parish Council Office, situated in Bramley Way, Monday to Friday from 10.00am to 12.30pm and on the Procedures page of this web site.
Bidford-on-Avon - ICT Award Winner (Calor Village of the Year Competition) 2006/07
Bidford-on-Avon is a village with a vibrant community and groups and associations catering for all ages and interests.
The village has an extensive range of local businesses employing many local people and by increasing tourism with natural attractions such as the river, the economy is benefiting. Businesses are also evident in helping support the community with significant sponsorships highlighting strong relationships.
Accessibility to Bidford couldn't be easier. Their website is easy to use and navigate and very up to date. Due to the large number of companies in the village, broadband access has facilitated an innovative approach to use of ICT within the village. The library offers five free computers and free lessons, the youth club members have three complementary computers, and silver surfers meet every Friday. Bidford's wide scale use of free IT involves all local residents who navigate cyberspace with ease.
Young and old are kept active with groups, outings, events and even a Young Firefighters initiative that is enthusiastically embraced. The 'Jolly Teapot', aptly named, is used as a venue where members of the Bidford Community Group can meet to express their views over a cup of tea. These meetings are also regularly attended by the Parish Council which takes this opportunity to hear the views of residents and improve village life.
Bidford is blessed with natural beauty and its history dating back to Roman and Anglo Saxon times makes it ripe for conservation. Preservation is the villages focus with the three P's – Parish, Paths and Partnership, driving this by encouraging walkers with way marking, path improvements and guidebooks and maps.
The village also has extensive allotments which encourage green fingers to produce beautiful vegetables and fruit, so much so that there is a waiting list. Recycling and energy schemes are also prevalent with the Parish being lit by 'green energy'.
Bidford has a lot to shout about and has just appointed a Village Crier to help pass on information about all the events and activities going on in Bidford for all the 4,950 local residents and visitors.
Calor Village of the Year Awards
Are You Stuck for Transport?
If so the Community Links social transport scheme maybe just what you are looking for.
Community Links operates a small fleet of vehicles, each with full disability access, to offer a 'door-to-door' service for people stuck for transport to get to and from their nearest town or village; or to visit friends locally; or to travel to and from Stratford.
The service is aimed for people who have a genuine need for local transport and cannot access public transport because of mobility problems or live in a rural isolated location with no other form of transport available.
The Community Links service operates between about 9.30am and 2.30 on set days in each part of the District three days a week as follows:
- West of Stratford on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; the area covered by Bidford, Alcester, Studley, Henley, Tanworth and Stratford and their surrounding villages.
- East of Stratford on Monday Thursday and Friday; the area covered by Southam, Kineton, Harbury, Wellesbourne and Stratford and their surrounding villages; as well as on Tuesday specifically for travel to and from Southam Market.
- South of Stratford on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; the area covered by Tysoe, Shipston, Quinton and Stratford and their surrounding villages.
The fare system is a simple flat rate of £1 per single journey, ie £2 return 'door-to-door'. This flat rate will be reviewed on 1 April 2007.
If you need this service, or know someone who does, phone Community Links on 01789 264491 for more information.
READ OUR COMMUNITY LINKS POSTER HERE
The Community Links social transport scheme works in close co-operation with two existing transport schemes in the district. Both of these will continue to operate as before and are:
- The Volunteer Centre Medical Journey Scheme for doctor, dentist and hospital and medical related appointments. Contact Clarissa Roberts on 01789 296344. This service typically costs the client 31p per mile; but do ask about costs when making your booking.
- Back & 4th Transport hire out minibuses with drivers to social and community groups. Contact Judith Hill on 01789 471595. A Back & 4th minibus typically costs £6 per hour plus 42p per mile to hire, but do ask for a quote when making your booking Community Links is a partnership project between Warwickshire County Council, Stratford on Avon District Council and Stratford on Avon Volunteer Centre.
Internet Computer for Residents' Use
The Parish Council has recently been awarded a computer under the Warwickshire County Council Community Computers scheme.
This computer, with internet access, is now available for the use of residents at the Parish Council Office, Bramley Way.
Residents will be asked to sign a Register Book and to adhere to the Access Guidelines.
The Parish Council trusts this extra facility being offered will be welcome and looks forward to it being widely used.
Save Your Fire Station
In 2006 Bidford fire appliance attended more building fires than any other retained (part time) fire appliance in the Stratford District Area.
In Bidford's area the population continues to increase. Industry has increased. But Fire Cover has not!
Read this flyer, then write to Councillor Richard Hobbs at Warwickshire County Council by 14 July 2007
Users of the Jubilee Close Play Area
The Parish Council is planning the reinstatement of the play equipment on Jubilee Close.
It has obtained quotations for various possibilities, and has applied for a District Council grant.
Members are seeking the views of the residents who use this play area and invites them to visit the Parish Council Office to look at the planned equipment and make their comments before the end of June.
Please note the Parish Council Office is open daily from 10.00 am – 12.30 pm, or by appointment if these hours are inconvenient.
Car Parking at the Big Meadow: Important Notice
Please note that ALL cars must pay
the £2 Parking Fee unless they hold a FREE PASS.
Residents of the Bidford-on-Avon Parish can have this reimbursed at the Parish Council Office, Bramley Way (next to the library) when applying for their Free Pass.
Please note that Free Pass Applications Forms are only available from the Parish Council Office, or you can download one here.
Five Good Reasons to Compost at Home
1. Reduce the amount of rubbish
you put out for collection and send to landfill.
2. Produce a fantastic free fertiliser for your garden, vegetable plots, patio planters and hanging baskets.
3. Save money by reducing the amount of compost you have to buy for your garden.
4. Help to reduce the production of methane – when organic waste is sent to landfill, it rots without oxygen producing methane – a powerful greenhouse gas which contributes to global warming.
5. Save time and petrol on taking garden waste to the tip.
The most important tips for making good compost are:
- Ensure that you get a good mix of wet (eg. food scraps, grass clippings) and dry (eg. paper, card, straw, leaves) materials. The dry materials will trap air spaces in the compost, which it needs to work properly.
- Do not include meat, fish, dairy or cooked food scraps. These are the things that might attract unwanted visitors to the bin!
Compost bins can be purchased at subsidised prices. The Recycle Now Home Compost programme is a partnership between Warwickshire County Council and WRAP (the Waste & Resources Action Programme). Three designs of bin are available, starting at £8 including delivery.
For more information or to order a compost bin visit the website: www.recyclenow.com/compost or call: 0845 077 0757
Don't forget that you also have a local composting advisor – Penny Holmes - who attends events, gives talks and works with schools to promote successful home composting. If you have an event that you would like the advisor to attend please email: penny.holmes@wrap.org.uk
Warwickshire County Council:
Saving Electricity at Home
Read this leaflet, from Warwickshire County Council, to see five ideas that will cost you nothing, yet could save you £100 per year in energy savings.
Vulnerable Household Scheme: DO YOU HAVE A WATER METER?
The vulnerable household scheme is a capped charge, which is intended to help metered customers who are experiencing difficulties as a result of high water usage or low income.
If a member of your household is on receipt of benefits and has a medical condition that makes you use more water, or you are in receipt of benefit and have three children under the age of 19, then you may be able to apply for this scheme.
For further information to see if you qualify for the scheme, please telephone 0845 7500 500
Application forms are now available at the Parish Council Office. Help to complete the form can be obtained from the Bidford Benefits Advice Group - please contact Mike Gerrard on 01789 778493.
Coventry and Warwickshire Learning Consortium
WANT TO DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS? BE A BETTER WORKER? SHORT OF SKILLS? WANT A JOB?
Get yourself a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)
Coventry and Warwickshire Learning Consortium are offering NVQ courses at heavily discounted prices - many of them absolutely FREE. To apply you must:
a) Work in a voluntary community organization; b) Be working in, or moving into, an administrative or management role; c) Be aged 19 or over.
You can qualify in Business Administration, Team Leadership, Retail skills, Health & Social Care, Child Care & Development, and other valuable capabilities with NO CHARGE at the lower levels and at only a fraction of the normal cost for the higher level qualifications.
Information sheets may be obtained from the Parish Council Office, Bramley Way (next to the library) open daily from 10.00 am to 12.30 pm or downloaded here
Calor Village of the Year Awards 2006
County's Top Villages Revealed
Warwickshire's top villages are celebrating as the county results of the 2006 Calor Warwickshire Best Kept Village and Village of the Year competitions have been revealed.
Over 80 communities took part this year in one or both competitions, which are run by Warwickshire Rural Community Council (WRCC) and sponsored by Calor - the UK's leading supplier of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas).
The Warwickshire Best Kept Village competition, which also incorporated the Best Kept Churchyard competition this year, encourages communities to work together to keep their surroundings tidy and well maintained. The results of this competition are as follows:
- Best Kept Small Village Winner
- Sambourne - Best Kept Large Village Winner
- Leek Wootton - Best Kept Churchyard Winner
- Church of St Peter and St Paul, Butlers Marston
The Warwickshire Village of the Year competition judged villages of up to 5,000 residents on six key aspects of village life with categories covering Building Community Life, Business, Young People, Older People, the Environment and Information Communication Technology (ICT). Thanks to continued competition support from Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) at both county and national level, the winning village in the Building Community Life category will benefit from £500 prize money. The results of this competition are as follows:
- 2006 Calor Warwickshire Village of the Year
- BIDFORD-ON-AVON - Information Communication Technology Winner
- Barton-on-the-Heath - Building Community Life Winner
- Middleton
As the 2006 Calor Warwickshire Village of the Year, Bidford-on-Avon has the added honour of being nominated to go forward and represent the county in the prestigious national Calor Village of the Year® for England competition. More than 40 villages across the country will be competing in the competition, which has a total prize fund of over £39,000 and a top prize of £7,000. Bidford-on-Avon will initially be representing Warwickshire in the Central England region of the competition against villages from Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Rutland and Staffordshire.
The Warwickshire Village of the Year winners will be presented with their prizes at the Annual General Meeting of the WRCC on Saturday 14 October at Bidford-on-Avon Village Hall.
Competition organiser, Ariadne Uslu, commented: "This year's competitions have once again highlighted some excellent communities here in Warwickshire. Standards have been very high throughout and our judges had a difficult task selecting the final winners. We very much look forward to celebrating with representatives of the winning villages."
For further information on the competitions please contact Ariadne Uslu at WRCC on 02476 303232, or email her at ariadneu@wrccrural.org.uk.
Stratford on Avon District Council:
Accompanied Walks in the District
Walking for Health
Many people throughout the country have joined the national initiative called 'Walking for Health'. They regularly meet in small groups to enjoy short walks in their local areas. These can vary in pace so there is a group that suits everyone. They have found that regular walking for exercise can make considerable improvements to their health and well-being.
Evidence suggests that some of the benefits can include:
- Lowers the risk of heart disease and strokes
- Lowers high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Improve the flexibility in joints
- Reduces the risk of osteoporosis by strengthening the bones
- Reduces weight
- Improve the immune system
Of course you can get to meet new friends as well as renew old friendships. You will enjoy the social atmosphere as well as the opportunity for good conversation and don't forget that it's FREE.
There are some established walks in a number of areas throughout the District. You may wish to join one of these. If there is not a walk advertised where you live then please contact us. You may find that a walk programme is being planned in your area.
If you are interested and you want to find out more about Healthy Walks then please contact the Leisure Services at Stratford-on-Avon District Council 01789 267575.
Stratford on Avon District Council:
Housing Renewal Team
For information on Discretionary Grants or Disabled Facility Grants, please call 01789 260848, or visit the Council's web page at www.stratford.gov.uk, or email renewal@stratford-dc.gov.uk
Rural Outreach Fund Criteria
General
- The fund will only be accepted with the support of a VLO
- The fund can only be used to support projects which will provide additional resources, or enhance existing resources, not subsidise existing services or resources, other than in exceptional circumstances
- Projects should demonstrate that they address rural isolation and/or improve access to services or facilities
- The fund will only support projects which are to the benefit of communities or organisations where a VLO is present.
Only bids which fall/come under the following headings will be supported by the funds:
- Improving access to services & facilities
- Improving access to information
- Provision of training
- Building the capacity of community groups
- Support to Voluntary Organisations
- Community safety initiatives
Questionnaires are available at the Parish Council Office, Telephone 01789 778653
Stratford on Avon District Council:
Housing Advice Team
We offer a professional advice and information service about housing issues in the Stratford District. Let us help you!
For further information, please contact the Housing Advice Team on 01789 260861/2, or email housing@stratford-dc.gov.uk
For emergency assistance if you are homeless outside normal working hours, please call 01789 414066.
Silver Surfers Warwickshire - A Village Liaison Project
Come and learn to use the Internet with Silver Surfers. It's free of charge and no need to book - just pop along!
Every Friday from 10.00 am to 11.00 am at Bidford Library
This service is offered to you by Silver Surfers Volunteers who are available to offer support. Why not pod down to the library next Friday and see what it's all about?
Bird 'Flu
If you see a dead river bird, eg. a swan, a goose or a duck, DO NOT TOUCH IT
Please telephone 08459 335577 as soon as possible and report exactly where you saw it
Stratford on Avon District Council:
Volunteer Centre
Hundreds of people of all
ages enjoy themselves whilst helping others. Why volunteer?
Both you and the people you assist will benefit from the time and effort you provide. Those being helped will have their lives enhanced. You, the volunteer, could:
- get to meet new people
- gain confidence and experience
- feel more fulfilled
- do new things
- learn new skills
- enjoy yourself
It is for you to decide how much time you can offer and which activity and organization you support.
Take a look at our Web Site www.stratfordvbx.org.uk and/or ring us on 01789 262886.
Notice Regarding Planning Applications
It has come to the notice of the Parish Council that not all neighbours receive advice of planning applications. Full details of planning applications are available at the Parish Council Office (next to the library), which is open daily from 10.00am to 12.30pm. If you believe an application has been sent in and you have not been notified, please contact the Clerk.
All applications received by the Parish Council are discussed at its monthly Planning Meeting or its monthly Parish Council Meeting. Dates of the meetings are on this web site and the Parish Council's Notice Boards and Agendas, giving details of the applications that will be discussed, are also published on the web site and the notice boards.
Please feel free to contact the Clerk on 01789 778653 if you would like any further information.
Warwickshire County Council:
Adult and Community Learning Service
We are your local Adult and Community Learning Service and we can help you to:
- Help your children learn
- Improve your chances with jobs
- Improve your community
- Find some learning that will benefit you
Almost all of our learning is FREE. Read more, and request further information, in our booklet
Free Fire Home Safety Check
Bidford Fire Station is offering a Free Home
Fire Safety Check, which includes free smoke alarm fitting.
To arrange a visit, please contact Stratford-upon-Avon Fire Station on 01789 293271, ask for Area Risk Team and give your details - these will be passed on to members of Bidford Fire Station who will contact you to arrange a suitable time.
Alternatively, you can contact Bidford Fire Station direct on 01789 772223 Wednesday or Thursday between 7.00 and 9.00 pm.
Age Concern Services
The following documents detail the services provided by Age Concern in these districts:
Are You Over 60? Or Know Someone Who Is?
The Citizens Advice Bureau would like to offer help to people
in this age group.
- We would like to give you information about pension credits and other financial help available.
- If poor health is an issue we can discuss this too.
- We can complete the forms with you and post them for you.
Everything can be done in the privacy of your own home.
For more information, please phone Patricia on 01789 295399 (this number is often covered by an answering machine, but please leave your name and number and I will call you back).
Housing Needs Report
A detailed investigation into the housing needs of Bidford-on-Avon was carried out by Warwickshire Rural Housing Association at the request of the Parish Council.
Read the full report here - Feb 2005
Bogus Caller Initiative
The Warwickshire Police
aim to make our county 'The Safest Place to Be'. They have launched an initiative to educate the public on what to do if somebody
calls at your door who you do not recognise.
Read the Bogus Caller Information Sheet - which also includes a notice that you can show to callers. This information is also available at the Parish Office and the Library.
Flood Watch
Flooding is a serious issue. Around
6,000 properties are at risk of flooding in the Warwickshire area. While the Environmental Agency aims to provide
advance warning of flooding, and local authorities may provide assistance, the person who can do most to help is
you! Below is some useful information and guidance.
Information Sheet - This sheet from the Environmental Agency explains your local flood warning service and lists important contact numbers.
Leaflet - This leaflet, aimed at older residents, helps you plan ahead and reduce the risk to you and your belongings.
Warwickshire County Council:
Emergency Plan
Leaflets and Booklets with detailed information on how to cope in an emergency, including contact telephone numbers, local radio stations etc. are available at the Parish Office and the Library.
This information is also available on the Warwickshire County Council Emergency Plan web site.