THE A37 seems to get flooded quite often under the railway bridge at Ash Hill. This problem was the subject of considerable debate at the recent meeting of Bradford Peverell Parish Council.

When this happens a large number of motorists try to avoid the queues by using the very narrow lane that goes from Bradford Peverell to Muckleford, which is single track.

Although a one way diversion would work under emergency conditions it was considered that a permanent one way set up would only encourage speeding and would make it even more hazardous for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

Further consideration would be given to the problem.

With regard to the A37 Coun Neil Howard had spoken to Highways regarding the forthcoming resurfacing of the road between Stratton and Charminster.

This work is scheduled for December but due to budget restraints it is not clear yet whether they will be able to do it with a 'quiet running' surface like the Stratton bypass which is what the council wants.

There should be more news in October.

The meeting went on to hear that a basic website has been set up for village information; to get it up and running would cost an outlay of £100 plus an annual fee of £65.

More details will be available at the next meeting.

Coun David Ackerman pointed out the advantages of having a parish plan and proposed an open meeting for anyone interested in late September.

The village would be circulated and it will be necessary to form a steering group. Special funds are available to help run it and advice can be obtained from Simon Thompson of DCC.

The meeting was also informed about the 'Lengthsman' scheme whereby the council would pay for a part-share odd-job person to be employed for various tasks in the village.

This idea was rejected as the grass cutting was covered already and volunteers undertook other jobs.

Everyone present felt it was more beneficial for locals to care for their own environment.

All footpaths in the village have now been adopted.

It was reported that the two Amenity fields had received 13 grass cuts during a year of considerable grass growth and that the highly successful village fete had donated £625 to the field funds.

Various payments were authorised and the next meeting announced as Thursday November 5.