Peace and quiet now the new road is open (From Dorset Echo)

Peace and quiet now the new road is open

9:40am Wednesday 23rd March 2011 in Community

• THE best good news this week has to be the opening of the new road, which has caused a remarkable peacefulness in Upwey – we heard someone say that she could not sleep for the quietness of the road! She’ll probably get over it.

It does mean that access to local businesses will also be much easier – Peter and Janet Blakey at the Broadwey Village Stores have already reported an increased footfall and, hopefully, parking restrictions will soon be lifted.

• AT the AGM of the Upwey Society a good number of our members gathered to hear the reports of the society’s doings during the last year.

In my report, as chairman, it was a pleasure to thank the many people who work hard to ensure the society’s success and to congratulate them all on the sense of cohesion and neighbourliness which is often remarked upon by visitors.

Most particularly, John Huggins, who looks after environmental matters, was able to tell the meeting of the several good projects which have been carried out on the restoration of footpaths, renewal of gates and work done in our pocket park. There is still more to come to improve and enhance accessibility.

Our treasurer, Dave Mountjoy, gave a comprehensive account of our financial position, which is satisfactory, but had to announce a rise in the annual subscription rate from £2 per household to £3 – the meeting felt that this was not unreasonable since the rate had not been increased since 1993! Carol White remarked on a growth in membership which was pleasing and thanked the people who plod round the streets delivering our magazine which is published three times a year.

Two new members were elected to the committee, Wendy Sams who has lived in Upwey for more than 20 years, and Debbie Carpanini, a comparative newcomer. We welcome them both.

• THE following week saw the AGM of the Old School Village Hall which was quite well attended. Bill Crumbleholme has stood down as chairman but remains on the committee and Linda Barber has resigned following many year’s good service.

Treasurer Phil Price reported that the hall was doing well financially with balances up on last year. It sees there is unlikely to be any more grant aid from the County for special projects and it will be up to local users to raise funds.

Bookings for the hall should be made through Phil Cooke on 01305 812665.

• WONDERFUL displays of colour greeted visitors at the Memorial Hall when the Horticultural Society held its Spring Flower Show.

Organiser Eve Morris writes that the show was well supported by locals who were able to walk through our now peaceful villages. A pleasant afternoon was finished off with tea and home-made cakes.

The next event is the AGM and members mini-show on Thursday, April 7, 7.30pm at St Nicholas and St Laurence School.

• SAM HOSKINS reports that an afternoon of bridge held at the Frank Reynolds Community Centre, organised by Jane Buckle and aided by volunteers who donated raffle prizes, raised a magnificent £350 for the Weymouth Lifeboat For details of events at this hall, contact Sam on 01305 812655 or email samhoskins2002@aol.com.

• ON Thursday, March 31, Jenny Morris will be giving her fascinating presentation “The Klondike Gold Rush at the Old School, 7.30pm.

Tickets £5 on the door, with light refreshments, in aid of St Laurence Church fabric fund.