THE annual parish assembly in March attracted a number of parishioners who took the opportunity to express their views on a range of local issues, including the speed of vehicles on the B4211, parking outside the school, footpaths, crime and Neighbourhood Watch. PC Mark Taylor, our local beat manager, fielded questions on crime, security and traffic speeds. He warned of a spate of bogus callers in the Upton area and provided some signs with information on what precautions to take if a stranger calls. If you would like one of these, contact Jill Williams on (01452) 780195.

PC Taylor also gave the parish council some marker pens with which to mark property, invisibly, with your postcode. If property is stolen and then recovered, the mark shows up under ultra violet light and helps the police find its owner. If you want to borrow a pen to mark your property call Jill on (01452) 780195.

The parish council meeting that followed the annual assembly was attended by our county councillor Tom Wells. He gave an update on the proposals for a new M50 junction between Long Green and Sledge Green. A public meeting to consult local people will be held within the next few weeks.