THE Welland Library Links Project was officially opened this weekend. This means that from now on, Welland has its own library service permanently based at the village hall, together with an Internet access point. This is the first one of its kind in the county and possibly the second or third one in the whole country. Opening times are: Monday 11.15am-1.15pm, Tuesday 2.30pm-5pm, Wednesday 11am- 1pm and Thursday 9.30am-noon. We should be very grateful to those who are giving up their free time for this project and hopefully, it will be well supported.

The annual harvest festival is at St. James on Sunday, October 5, at 11am. Visitors and regulars will be most welcome.

At the monthly parish council meeting, guest speakers included the beat manager for the parish, PC Mark Taylor, and Andy Rickman from Worcestershire County Council. The topic for discussion was speeding traffic. Four people have been prosecuted in the last month following an increased police presence, instigated by the council. Other traffic calming measures were discussed and a it is hoped to arrange a public meeting soon .

Dr Everett gave an overview of the proposed new health centre in Upton. The council was in full agreement.

Many local footpaths are being cleared. Thanks need to go to Lindsay Newell for all her hard and unpaid work.