NOW that the local elections are behind us, we would like to express publicly our thanks to Sir Timothy Harford for his work over the past four years, first as treasurer and then as chairman of the South Littleton Parish Council.

As Journal readers will be aware, at the time of the last parish elections four parish councils in the Vale were in financial difficulties and disarray following the disclosure of financial fraud. Largely due to the expertise and patient hard work of Sir Timothy, the worst effects of this catastrophe were reduced. The parishes concerned were able to continue to function without the serious consequences that had been feared and without the bitterness and recriminations that might reasonably have been expected.

It is easy to take for granted the quiet dedication of those who work to improve the lot of their fellows and do not seek thanks or praise. Those of us closely involved with the difficulties and achievement of the last four years owe a great debt of gratitude to the outgoing chairman of South Littleton Parish Council. On behalf of ourselves as past and present councillors and our villagers we should like, through the Journal, to express our sincere thanks.

A BOMFORD, R GIBSON, R SMITH, G BOURNE, M NEILSON, M MARTIN, F HOGWOOD.