Buntingford Town Council
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Dated : 01 August 2008
1st August - Buntingford Heritage Centre
After many years of opening only two times a week, "times are a changing". Following discussion with Buntingford Town Council, the Clerk's Office has agreed to provide open entry to the centre on all days when the Clerk or her Assistant is present. Normal office hours are 9am until 4.30pm Mondays through to Thursday. These times will be restricted in the event of holidays or bookings in the Council Chamber. For more information, telephone the Clerk's Office on 01763 272222
23rd July - Buntingford in Bloom
Entry forms now available at the Manor House
21st July - What an EXPLOSION !!!
Buntingford enjoyed a tremendously successful Music Festival over the weekend. Many hundreds of people visited the playing fields at the Seth Ward Community Centre on both days, a large number even brought a picnic and spent many hours there. From 2pm on Saturday through to 11pm the bands were mainly aimed at the younger element. Sunday afternoon started with a Jazz band and continued with Blues, Classics from the Freman Choir with one or two young local bands.
With a beer tent, fairground rides, bouncy castle, stalls and a hog roast it was truly a family weekend.
Congratulations to all the young people who thoroughly enjoyed themselves and showed how their behaviour puts the very small minority to shame.
The event was organised through the Buntingford Youth Council with festival organiser Jeff Jones who was more than ably assisted by his wife Town Clerk, Jill.
15th July - Over £300 raised
The recent Wine Tasting evening at the Manor House, Buntingford raised over £300 for the Isabel Hospice. The event was organised by Grape Escapes and Buntingford Town Council. Around 50 people tasted wines from around the world with a short workshop on tasting and a Champagne challenge.
Is Buntingford ready for the Summer Explosion ?
The weekend of 19th and 20th July sees the biggest ever music event in Buntingford. Nearly 20 bands will be performing over the two days on a specially built stage at the Seth Ward Community Centre, Luynes Rise SG9 9SG. Fair rides and bouncy castles together with Hog Roast, Beer Tent, stalls and lots more make this a great family event. Admission is free - why not bring a picnic ?
1st July - Never on a Sunday is now YES ON A SUNDAY for the 700
After a long time with no service the 700 bus route has been re-installed between Stevenage and Stansted Airport of Sundays. At last they have recognised that people travel and go on holidays on Sundays.
30th June - Civic Reception recognises local people
The Buntingford Town Reception held on Friday presented certificates to two local stalwarts namely Ken Durrant who was named as East Herts Volunteer of the Year and PC Dave Miller who won the Eastern Region Neighbourhood Policeman of the Year. Unfortunately another person was not able to attend but was mentioned "in dispatches" and will receive her certificate shortly. That person is Val Hume who after 14 years of editorship of the Buntingford Journal is stepping down.
23rd June - What a Great Day
Many congratulations to the Carnival committee for organising a fabulous day on Saturday. Many stalls made the High Street a treasure trove and live bands of all types provided a musical backdrop.
The procession was spectacular and one of the best of recent years.
9th June - Skate Ramps shine softly
The new floodlights have been installed at the Skate Ramps in Norfolk Road Playing Fields. The lights are low emission and automatically turn off at 10pm. These have been installed following requests from the boarders and has been supported by the police.
30th May - New Town Mayor
Last evening Cllr Surjit Basra was elected to the office of Town Mayor for Buntingford to serve 2008/09. Cllr Basra moved to Buntingford in 1991 and is well known throughout the district. "Mr Bas" as he is affectionately known, runs the Post Office and supermarket in Baldock Road. "Mrs B" is also well known for her cullinary skills with home made curries, bhajis, samosas, etc. Out-going mayor Cllr John Noades was elected to the office of Deputy Town Mayor.
8th May - Town Council agrees to help fund CAB office
Following the announcement by East Herts District Council to reduce its funding of the East Herts Citizen's Advice Service, Buntingford Town Council has agreed to grant the local CAB sufficient money to pay for 3 months' office rental for each of the next two years. This will help to ensure local residents get the much sought after advice that has been provided for many years.
6th May - Let there be Light for Boarders
The Town Council has authorised the provision of lights for the Skate Ramp in Norfolk Road Playing Fields. These will be low density and on a time switch so they are not on all night.
21st April - Successful celebration of 30 years
It has been 30 years since Buntingford signed the twinning agreement with Luynes in France. The recent visit by our French friends (and some Spanish ones too) culminated in a "Cockney" evening at Freman College on Saturday. Entente cordiale was lubricated with a specially brewed Buntingford Ale, entertained with popular songs in all languages and fed with a hog roast. The Pearly King, Queen and princess from Peckham added a sparkle to the proceedings. Twinning chairman, Jean Cook, managed to greet everyone in their language, starting with Spanish for our friends from Olvega, then in French and finally in English.
18th April - Local Man wins award
East Herts Civic Reception was the venue for local handyman Ken Durrant to receive his Volunteer of the Year award. Ken, a very familiar face around the town, has been involved in numerous clubs and societies as well as helping anyone in need.
18th March - Grant Application form now available on-line
The Buntingford Town Council application form for a grant is now available to download. Please see new option under Useful Links.
12th March - Council tax for 2008/09 published
East Herts District Council has published the rates for the coming year. In Buntingford, band D properties will rise form £1,419.74 to £1,479.03 per annum. The whole of this increase is due to EHDC, HCC and HPA (the Town Council element actually fell by a £0.69)
10th March - Youth Bus rides again!
Following the success of the Stevenage bus in February, the Youth Council has organised another for Tuesday 25th March leaving Buntingford at 6pm and returning from the Leisure Park at 11.15pm. Pre-booking advisable 272222.
28th February - Budgets 2008/09
The Town Council has approved the new budget which is slightly down on the current year. This should mean no increase in our element of your rates, but EHDC, HCC and HPA are likely to increase their elements.
19th February - Liquid Bus
The Youth Council ran a very successful bus service on Tuesday night of half term to the Liquid Nightclub. Over 20 young people travelled and their behaviour was a credit to the youth of Buntingford.
8th February - Car Park charges
The meeting with Mike Carver did go ahead but to no avail. He states that East Herts is within their rights to impose charges without consultation. Our efforts to find any covenants on the land proved futile despite trawls through much archive material.
30th January - Car Park charges
The Town Council has complained to East Herts about the manner in which these were sprung upon us all. We are still exploring avenues and will be meeting with Mike Carver in the near future
29th January - Station House redevelopment approved
The planning application for conversion of the Station House and building of two pairs of semi-detached and a terrace of 4 dwellings has been approved. Conditions have been applied to ensure foundations of surrounding properties are not affected as well as a number of trees.
3rd January - Youth Shelter Questionnaire
This questionnaire has been produced by the Youth Council and distributed with the Town Council Newsletter in the Royston Crow. Residents are asked to complete the slip and return to one of the collection boxes at the Manor House, Library or Post Office. This will help both the Youth Council and the Town Council to decide on the most appropriate location. Spare forms are available from the Manor House.
2007
6th December - Lights of Love
Once again the Manor House car park was packed for the turning on of the Isobel Hospice Lights of Love tree which was sponsored once again by the Royston Crow. The Youth Council's Treasured Pets Tree was also lit up and this year's sponsor was the Woolpack Vetinerary Surgery.
29th November - Christmas Lights
A very large number of people turned up to see the Christmas Lights being switched on last Friday. The switch was thrown by Ivy Ross who at 106 is the oldest person in Buntingford. Ivy was assisted by the Town Mayor, John Noades, and the chair of the youth Council, Katy Wilson.
19th November - Local MP, Oliver Heald to attend Lights of Love ceremony
This year's ceremony will be held on Friday 7th December commencing at 5.45pm. Following the service and switching on of the lights, many of the shops will be open for Late Night Shopping.
2nd November - Town Council receives Quality Town Status
Buntingford Town Council becomes the first parish/town in East Herts and only the fourth in the whole of Hertfordshire to achieve the Quality Status. The Council has been working towards
qualification for the past few years and many thanks are due to the Town Clerk, Jill Jones, for compiling the portfolio and answering all the queries.
15th October - Gypsy & Travellers Accommodation Needs Report
This report produced for North and East Hertfordshire Councils is available in the reception of the Manor House
28th September - Latest Town Council Newsletter published
The latest Newsletter has been delivered via the Royston Crow. Additional copies are available at the Manor House.
18th September - Buntingford Travel Guide - Out Now
The guide is being delivered to every house in Buntingford, Aspenden and Westmill this week. Chipping & Buckland will receive theirs next week. Your comments will be most welcome.
22nd August - Buntingford Heritage Centre
From the 1st September, the centre will be open on the 1st and 3rd Saturday each month between 10am and 12noon. Additionally it will be open every Monday morning from 10am to 12noon. Just call in at the Manor House.
8th August - Buntingford Travel Guide
The Town Council has been working with the Rural Transport Partnership to produce a leaflet specifically for Buntingford. This will contain a timetable for all buses serving the town, even those that run on odd days. It is expected that every household will receive a copy by mid-September. Additional copies will be available from the Manor House and the Library.
8th August - Youth Council's Manifesto online
You may now access the Manifesto as a PDF file by simply clicking here
16th July 2007 Buntingford Youth Council's Summer Music Festival
This event, celebrated last Saturday 14th July, was a great success and many thanks go to everyone who participated. The Community Centre field saw a host of stalls, bouncy castles and a hog roast. In the main hall, 7 bands entertained from 4pm to 11pm. Stagestruck, a local company, provided and organised the lighting and sound systems which were superb. The local WI provided excellent service with refreshments.
21st June 2007 Buntingford Youth Council to launch their Manifesto
Friday 6th July will see the official launch of the Manifesto outlining the aims of the Youth Council and highlighting those areas where the youth of Buntinford wish to see improved and extended. The local MP, Oliver Heald, will be present to receive the manifesto as will be other representatives from County, District and Town councils. The press and TV have been invited to this important occasion.
For more information, please contact the Clerk's Office.
11th June 2007 Classic Car Show - Saturday 1st September
Entry forms now available from the Manor House or visit www.buntingfordclassic.com
4th June 2007 Buntingford in Bloom
Entry forms are now available form the Manor House. Judging will take place towards the end of July.
10th May 2007 Town Council Annual Meeting
Councillor John Noades was elected as Town Mayor for the second year. Councillor Surjit Basra has been appointed Deputy Mayor.
Chairmen of the Committees are:
Amenities Cllr Mrs Teresa Bonner
Resources Cllr Surjit Basra
Planning Cllr John Warren
6th May 2007 Election Result
The following were duly elected at the count held on Firday 4th May
East Herts District Council for the Buntingford Ward:
Stan Bull John Warren
Buntingford Town Council
Brian Austin Surjit Basra Teresa Bonner
Stan Bull Jean Cook David Ginn
Debbie Lemay Jonathan Ling W. John Noades
John Warren Patrick Whittaker Eunice Woods
12th April 2007 We have an election for Buntingford Town Council
The following 14 candidates have been confirmed and will stand for election for the 12 places on the Buntingford Town Council on Thursday 3rd May 2007.
Mr Brian Austin Mr Surjit Basra Mrs Teresa Bonner Mr Ronald Bray
Mr Stan Bull Mrs Jean Cook Mr David Ginn Mr David Grant
Mrs Deborah Lemay Mr Jonathan Ling Mrs John Noades Mr John Warren
Mr Pat Whittaker Mrs Eunice Woods
27th March 2007 Council Newsletter
The latest Town Council newsletter will be included in this week's Crow newspaper. Should you not receive one, please let the Clerk's Office know. Spare copies are available in the Visitor's Information Point.
8th March 2007 Nomination Forms available
If you would like to stand as a Town Councillor, nomination forms are now available. We have a small number at the Clerk's Office, feel free to pop in or telephone. The Town Clerk or her assistant are available to provide assistance should you need any. Forms must be returned to East Herts no later than 12.00 noon on 4th April.
7th March 2007 Youth Council introduce their Questionaire
Students at Edwinstree and Freman College will be given a questionaire aimed at collecting information regarding the youth. It will seek to gather information concerning their desire for further facilities, what occupies them, etc. Once collated, the information will be used to form a Youth Manifesto which will be presented to all levels of governement. All students who complete a form will be entered into a draw for cash prizes.
1st August - Buntingford Heritage Centre
After many years of opening only two times a week, "times are a changing". Following discussion with Buntingford Town Council, the Clerk's Office has agreed to provide open entry to the centre on all days when the Clerk or her Assistant is present. Normal office hours are 9am until 4.30pm Mondays through to Thursday. These times will be restricted in the event of holidays or bookings in the Council Chamber. For more information, telephone the Clerk's Office on 01763 272222
23rd July - Buntingford in Bloom
Entry forms now available at the Manor House
21st July - What an EXPLOSION !!!
Buntingford enjoyed a tremendously successful Music Festival over the weekend. Many hundreds of people visited the playing fields at the Seth Ward Community Centre on both days, a large number even brought a picnic and spent many hours there. From 2pm on Saturday through to 11pm the bands were mainly aimed at the younger element. Sunday afternoon started with a Jazz band and continued with Blues, Classics from the Freman Choir with one or two young local bands.
With a beer tent, fairground rides, bouncy castle, stalls and a hog roast it was truly a family weekend.
Congratulations to all the young people who thoroughly enjoyed themselves and showed how their behaviour puts the very small minority to shame.
The event was organised through the Buntingford Youth Council with festival organiser Jeff Jones who was more than ably assisted by his wife Town Clerk, Jill.
15th July - Over £300 raised
The recent Wine Tasting evening at the Manor House, Buntingford raised over £300 for the Isabel Hospice. The event was organised by Grape Escapes and Buntingford Town Council. Around 50 people tasted wines from around the world with a short workshop on tasting and a Champagne challenge.
Is Buntingford ready for the Summer Explosion ?
The weekend of 19th and 20th July sees the biggest ever music event in Buntingford. Nearly 20 bands will be performing over the two days on a specially built stage at the Seth Ward Community Centre, Luynes Rise SG9 9SG. Fair rides and bouncy castles together with Hog Roast, Beer Tent, stalls and lots more make this a great family event. Admission is free - why not bring a picnic ?
1st July - Never on a Sunday is now YES ON A SUNDAY for the 700
After a long time with no service the 700 bus route has been re-installed between Stevenage and Stansted Airport of Sundays. At last they have recognised that people travel and go on holidays on Sundays.
30th June - Civic Reception recognises local people
The Buntingford Town Reception held on Friday presented certificates to two local stalwarts namely Ken Durrant who was named as East Herts Volunteer of the Year and PC Dave Miller who won the Eastern Region Neighbourhood Policeman of the Year. Unfortunately another person was not able to attend but was mentioned "in dispatches" and will receive her certificate shortly. That person is Val Hume who after 14 years of editorship of the Buntingford Journal is stepping down.
23rd June - What a Great Day
Many congratulations to the Carnival committee for organising a fabulous day on Saturday. Many stalls made the High Street a treasure trove and live bands of all types provided a musical backdrop.
The procession was spectacular and one of the best of recent years.
9th June - Skate Ramps shine softly
The new floodlights have been installed at the Skate Ramps in Norfolk Road Playing Fields. The lights are low emission and automatically turn off at 10pm. These have been installed following requests from the boarders and has been supported by the police.
30th May - New Town Mayor
Last evening Cllr Surjit Basra was elected to the office of Town Mayor for Buntingford to serve 2008/09. Cllr Basra moved to Buntingford in 1991 and is well known throughout the district. "Mr Bas" as he is affectionately known, runs the Post Office and supermarket in Baldock Road. "Mrs B" is also well known for her cullinary skills with home made curries, bhajis, samosas, etc. Out-going mayor Cllr John Noades was elected to the office of Deputy Town Mayor.
8th May - Town Council agrees to help fund CAB office
Following the announcement by East Herts District Council to reduce its funding of the East Herts Citizen's Advice Service, Buntingford Town Council has agreed to grant the local CAB sufficient money to pay for 3 months' office rental for each of the next two years. This will help to ensure local residents get the much sought after advice that has been provided for many years.
6th May - Let there be Light for Boarders
The Town Council has authorised the provision of lights for the Skate Ramp in Norfolk Road Playing Fields. These will be low density and on a time switch so they are not on all night.
21st April - Successful celebration of 30 years
It has been 30 years since Buntingford signed the twinning agreement with Luynes in France. The recent visit by our French friends (and some Spanish ones too) culminated in a "Cockney" evening at Freman College on Saturday. Entente cordiale was lubricated with a specially brewed Buntingford Ale, entertained with popular songs in all languages and fed with a hog roast. The Pearly King, Queen and princess from Peckham added a sparkle to the proceedings. Twinning chairman, Jean Cook, managed to greet everyone in their language, starting with Spanish for our friends from Olvega, then in French and finally in English.
18th April - Local Man wins award
East Herts Civic Reception was the venue for local handyman Ken Durrant to receive his Volunteer of the Year award. Ken, a very familiar face around the town, has been involved in numerous clubs and societies as well as helping anyone in need.
18th March - Grant Application form now available on-line
The Buntingford Town Council application form for a grant is now available to download. Please see new option under Useful Links.
12th March - Council tax for 2008/09 published
East Herts District Council has published the rates for the coming year. In Buntingford, band D properties will rise form £1,419.74 to £1,479.03 per annum. The whole of this increase is due to EHDC, HCC and HPA (the Town Council element actually fell by a £0.69)
10th March - Youth Bus rides again!
Following the success of the Stevenage bus in February, the Youth Council has organised another for Tuesday 25th March leaving Buntingford at 6pm and returning from the Leisure Park at 11.15pm. Pre-booking advisable 272222.
28th February - Budgets 2008/09
The Town Council has approved the new budget which is slightly down on the current year. This should mean no increase in our element of your rates, but EHDC, HCC and HPA are likely to increase their elements.
19th February - Liquid Bus
The Youth Council ran a very successful bus service on Tuesday night of half term to the Liquid Nightclub. Over 20 young people travelled and their behaviour was a credit to the youth of Buntingford.
8th February - Car Park charges
The meeting with Mike Carver did go ahead but to no avail. He states that East Herts is within their rights to impose charges without consultation. Our efforts to find any covenants on the land proved futile despite trawls through much archive material.
30th January - Car Park charges
The Town Council has complained to East Herts about the manner in which these were sprung upon us all. We are still exploring avenues and will be meeting with Mike Carver in the near future
29th January - Station House redevelopment approved
The planning application for conversion of the Station House and building of two pairs of semi-detached and a terrace of 4 dwellings has been approved. Conditions have been applied to ensure foundations of surrounding properties are not affected as well as a number of trees.
3rd January - Youth Shelter Questionnaire
This questionnaire has been produced by the Youth Council and distributed with the Town Council Newsletter in the Royston Crow. Residents are asked to complete the slip and return to one of the collection boxes at the Manor House, Library or Post Office. This will help both the Youth Council and the Town Council to decide on the most appropriate location. Spare forms are available from the Manor House.
2007
6th December - Lights of Love
Once again the Manor House car park was packed for the turning on of the Isobel Hospice Lights of Love tree which was sponsored once again by the Royston Crow. The Youth Council's Treasured Pets Tree was also lit up and this year's sponsor was the Woolpack Vetinerary Surgery.
29th November - Christmas Lights
A very large number of people turned up to see the Christmas Lights being switched on last Friday. The switch was thrown by Ivy Ross who at 106 is the oldest person in Buntingford. Ivy was assisted by the Town Mayor, John Noades, and the chair of the youth Council, Katy Wilson.
19th November - Local MP, Oliver Heald to attend Lights of Love ceremony
This year's ceremony will be held on Friday 7th December commencing at 5.45pm. Following the service and switching on of the lights, many of the shops will be open for Late Night Shopping.
2nd November - Town Council receives Quality Town Status
Buntingford Town Council becomes the first parish/town in East Herts and only the fourth in the whole of Hertfordshire to achieve the Quality Status. The Council has been working towards
qualification for the past few years and many thanks are due to the Town Clerk, Jill Jones, for compiling the portfolio and answering all the queries.15th October - Gypsy & Travellers Accommodation Needs Report
This report produced for North and East Hertfordshire Councils is available in the reception of the Manor House
28th September - Latest Town Council Newsletter published
The latest Newsletter has been delivered via the Royston Crow. Additional copies are available at the Manor House.
18th September - Buntingford Travel Guide - Out Now
The guide is being delivered to every house in Buntingford, Aspenden and Westmill this week. Chipping & Buckland will receive theirs next week. Your comments will be most welcome.
22nd August - Buntingford Heritage Centre
From the 1st September, the centre will be open on the 1st and 3rd Saturday each month between 10am and 12noon. Additionally it will be open every Monday morning from 10am to 12noon. Just call in at the Manor House.
8th August - Buntingford Travel Guide
The Town Council has been working with the Rural Transport Partnership to produce a leaflet specifically for Buntingford. This will contain a timetable for all buses serving the town, even those that run on odd days. It is expected that every household will receive a copy by mid-September. Additional copies will be available from the Manor House and the Library.
8th August - Youth Council's Manifesto online
You may now access the Manifesto as a PDF file by simply clicking here
16th July 2007 Buntingford Youth Council's Summer Music Festival
This event, celebrated last Saturday 14th July, was a great success and many thanks go to everyone who participated. The Community Centre field saw a host of stalls, bouncy castles and a hog roast. In the main hall, 7 bands entertained from 4pm to 11pm. Stagestruck, a local company, provided and organised the lighting and sound systems which were superb. The local WI provided excellent service with refreshments.
21st June 2007 Buntingford Youth Council to launch their Manifesto
Friday 6th July will see the official launch of the Manifesto outlining the aims of the Youth Council and highlighting those areas where the youth of Buntinford wish to see improved and extended. The local MP, Oliver Heald, will be present to receive the manifesto as will be other representatives from County, District and Town councils. The press and TV have been invited to this important occasion.
For more information, please contact the Clerk's Office.
11th June 2007 Classic Car Show - Saturday 1st September
Entry forms now available from the Manor House or visit www.buntingfordclassic.com
4th June 2007 Buntingford in Bloom
Entry forms are now available form the Manor House. Judging will take place towards the end of July.
10th May 2007 Town Council Annual Meeting
Councillor John Noades was elected as Town Mayor for the second year. Councillor Surjit Basra has been appointed Deputy Mayor.
Chairmen of the Committees are:
Amenities Cllr Mrs Teresa Bonner
Resources Cllr Surjit Basra
Planning Cllr John Warren
6th May 2007 Election Result
The following were duly elected at the count held on Firday 4th May
East Herts District Council for the Buntingford Ward:
Stan Bull John Warren
Buntingford Town Council
Brian Austin Surjit Basra Teresa Bonner
Stan Bull Jean Cook David Ginn
Debbie Lemay Jonathan Ling W. John Noades
John Warren Patrick Whittaker Eunice Woods
12th April 2007 We have an election for Buntingford Town Council
The following 14 candidates have been confirmed and will stand for election for the 12 places on the Buntingford Town Council on Thursday 3rd May 2007.
Mr Brian Austin Mr Surjit Basra Mrs Teresa Bonner Mr Ronald Bray
Mr Stan Bull Mrs Jean Cook Mr David Ginn Mr David Grant
Mrs Deborah Lemay Mr Jonathan Ling Mrs John Noades Mr John Warren
Mr Pat Whittaker Mrs Eunice Woods
27th March 2007 Council Newsletter
The latest Town Council newsletter will be included in this week's Crow newspaper. Should you not receive one, please let the Clerk's Office know. Spare copies are available in the Visitor's Information Point.
8th March 2007 Nomination Forms available
If you would like to stand as a Town Councillor, nomination forms are now available. We have a small number at the Clerk's Office, feel free to pop in or telephone. The Town Clerk or her assistant are available to provide assistance should you need any. Forms must be returned to East Herts no later than 12.00 noon on 4th April.
7th March 2007 Youth Council introduce their Questionaire
Students at Edwinstree and Freman College will be given a questionaire aimed at collecting information regarding the youth. It will seek to gather information concerning their desire for further facilities, what occupies them, etc. Once collated, the information will be used to form a Youth Manifesto which will be presented to all levels of governement. All students who complete a form will be entered into a draw for cash prizes.