Harvington (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Harvington

PARISH COUNCIL: At the meeting held last Wednesday evening, one of the topics under discussion was the letter received from the head of highways and transportation management at County Hall replying to an inquiry from the parish clerk about the present 40mph speed restriction on the Alcester Road. It has long been felt by Harvington residents that this restriction was not severe enough and should be reduced to 30mph but the letter states that, at the time of the imposition of 40mph, the criteria required for the lower speed were not required as part of the village speed limit initiative. They, as laid down by Department of Transport, are still not met at the crossroads in question, but the writer of the letter undertakes to monitor the location again, taking account of the new development in the Leys Road area. This has prompted the parish council chairman to have talks with his opposite number at Norton as to the possibility of linking with Norton in making a complaint about the speeding affecting both villages. A letter from Roger Beard, chairman of the Harvington Playing Field committee was referred to and its contents noted; pleasant remarks were made about a paragraph which read: 'Housekeeping within the field has been supplemented by a small number of dog-walkers who regularly help to clear the field of litter. They would be embarrassed to be named, but they will realise from this comment that their efforts are gratefully acknowledged.'

SONGS OF PRAISE: The evening service at St James' Church had a different look on Sunday when a Songs of Praise programme of readings and favourite hymns were enjoyed by all who attended. It is hoped that this new look which will be repeated at intervals in the future, will come to appeal to all who enjoy singing together and revisiting well-known hymns with which they have been familiar all their lives. Many people present were pleased to hear the announcement that the wine and titbits social evening held at the home of Sheila Wolstenholme on Friday evening had been a great success due largely to their loyal determination to attend, despite the dreadful weather, and thus help to raise money for the marquee which is to be an important part of this year's church fete on June 24. The evening raised over £400.