THE Upleadon annual assembly of the parish meeting and the annual meeting of the parish council were held in Upleadon Village Hall on Tuesday, May 8. No members of the public were present. The chairman, Coun Eddie Wood gave his report for the past year. The clerk and treasurer, Dorothy Parker gave the financial report.

PC Simon Bailey gave his annual report on the crimes and problems during the past year.

A new village seat will be installed shortly. This will be situated on a patch of grass in the proximity of the entrance to the village hall.

A concealed road in Forge Lane leading to Eden's Hill is still considered dangerous even with the speed restrictions. A site meeting will be convened in the near future to discuss the situation. The damaged barriers at Leachford Bridge have been on the parish council agenda for a long time. It is hoped that now a new financial year is in place the situation will be remedied.

The bus service from Upleadon to Gloucester is less than satisfactory. It runs on Friday and Saturday from Redmarley through Pool Hill and Upleadon via Tibberton and Taynton to Gloucester. It is felt that a bus earlier in the week is desirable and people would like their Tuesday bus re-instated. The chairman and the clerk are pursuing this matter so that a better and more convenient bus service can be achieved.

Council members are chairman, Eddie Wood, vice-chairman Ken Berrow, David Leighton, Anne Bassett, June Mayo, Mary Gough and Paul Dallow. The clerk is Dorothy Parker. Frank Mayo has now retired from the council.

A very enjoyable evening was held in Upleadon Village Hall on Saturday, May 10. It was entitled The Wine Buff of the Year. The winners were Pat Kennedy and Sarah Jefferson. Fifty people were present and five different wines were sampled. The starter for the meal was salmon followed by three different pates and three different cheeses accompanied by coleslaw and crusty bread. There was a choice of three different sweets. An interesting raffle was held during the evening and the excellent sum of £200 was raised for Upleadon Church funds.

Don't forget Upleadon Church fete to be held on Saturday, June 21. This year's proceedings will be on the front lawn of the Old Vicarage. It will be opened at 3pm by David Parsons of Redmarley. Strawberry and cream teas are a permanent fixture at the fete and this year will be no exception. Entertainment will be provided by the England's Glory Ladies Morris Dancers. There will be a fancy dress competition for the children and other varied competitions. The usual stalls will be in place and there are sure to be some bargains around. The grand draw is also a permanent feature with this year £50 and £25, as well as a meal for two, among the prizes. Details from Gerald Draper on (01531) 820043.