The meeting took place at the Village Hall last Monday night to discuss the future of the Malvern Hills and Commons, particularly Castlemorton/Birtsmorton Commons. Mr Ian Rowat, from The Conservators, gave an interesting 20 minute overview of the problem, together with one proposed solution, namely, cattle-grids. This sparked off an interesting debate with many views being expressed. Mr Richard Chamings gave a short presentation outlining his opposing views of the proposed cattle-grids. The chair then asked for alternative views from the floor, and took a straw-poll with five Welland parishioners for the grids and 20 against and 10 out of all present for the grids with 38 against. Bear in mind, however, that there were 67 people present, so there were a quite a few abstentions.

Another item for this week is a request from the Welland fete committee. The fete is at 2pm on July 5, and Les Willis will be MC again this year. He would like to encourage any singers, dancers, musicians or bands to come and borrow his microphone if they would like to show off their talent. There will also be a competition for all ages to enter their decorated hats and/or wellies. There will be several age groups catered for. Any donations of quality jumble, prizes, cakes etc. would be most welcome. Please ring Jo on 01684 310256.