A full meeting of the Council was held on the 17^th July and there was much to discuss and learn.

The main part of the meeting was taken up with the re-organisation of the Council' s Committee structure in accordance with the GEM Report. It will be necessary for everyone to get used to the following new titles:-

Each Chairman presented a paper setting out their responsibilities and aims and thoughts about what was needed to be implemented in their particular areas. Much thought had already been given to what was needed to be processed in welcoming newcomers, development of youth work, publicity , visiting and re-organisation of some administration and communication problems, which at present affect the smooth running of some projects.

The PCC will be having an ‘Away Day’ on the 8^th September, when some of those problems would be discussed, including future fundraising.

The Vicar stressed the importance of the forthcoming TRIO Campaign, in view of our present financial situation and our responsibilities to the Diocese. Because of the TRIO Presentations to take place on Sunday 7th October, there would be no traditional Harvest celebration this year. The Autumn Newsletter would give an explanation of this decision to the wider congregation.

Various other matters were also on the Agenda -

The Evangelistic Project called ‘On the Move’ by the local churches is to take place in September- more news of this was given at the 9.30am service on Sunday 22^nd July.

Parish hospitality was discussed in view of the financial situation and it was unanimously agreed that ‘Do it Yourself’ type receptions were very successful and enjoyable.

An Auction is proposed for next Spring. You will be hearing a lot more about this. There is a big problem about damp at the East end of the church due to flooding in the Isaac Smith tomb. The Architect is exploring ways of dealing with this and applications are being made to charities, such as English Heritage, to help with the considerable cost of repair.

It was an interesting, vibrant and forward-looking meeting.