If anyone missed the Broadband Roadshow in Alstonefield on Monday 20th June and would like to make any comments, please go to www.staffordshire.gov.uk/broadbandconsultation to complete the survey and test your line speed.

I was out walking with my family this evening. While enjoying the local views we were confronted with a great display of six or seven Curlew’s calling and darting through the sky..

Great that the breeding pairs of Curlew’s have been successful this year.

The curlew is the largest European wading bird, instantly recognisable on winter estuaries or summer moors with its long down-curved bill, brown upperparts and long legs. There have been worrying breeding declines in many areas largely due to loss of habitat through agricultural intensification. It is included on the Amber List as a bird with important breeding and wintering populations in the UK.

It would not be summer in Alstonefield, without the call of the Curlew.

It has now been over four months that the abandoned Blue Ford Focus has darkened our streets..

After many calls and emails with the local council and local police we are no closer to moving this car! Yet, somebody from the council as been out and moved the yellow sticker in recent days. What a waste of time and money.
They have done this because the police state that it is not an abandoned vehicle.

The vehicle excise Act 1994 states that an offence exists if the EXCISE LICENCE MUST BE FIXED TO AND EXHIBITED ON THE VEHICLE IN A MANNER PRESCRIBED BY THE REGULATIONS AND MUST BE CLEARLY VISIBLE FROM THE NEARSIDE OF THE ROAD.

This car is tax but the tax disc is not visible. Unfortunatley this is only a fixed penalty, with a fine of £100.

The police have the power to immediately remove any vehicle that is left abandoned in breach of local traffic regulation orders. They can also remove a vehicle that is causing an obstruction or is likely to cause a danger.

Looks like we are stuck with it for a few more months.

This is the low level of anti-social behaviour that we all hear about. Its not the end of the world but its bloody frustrating!

Its time for some good old direct action!!!

Cricket practice for the Village Cricket Match on Wakes Sunday, starts on Friday 10th June from 5.30 to 6.30 pm. and then every Friday at the same time until the match. Everyone aged 11 and over is welcome. This is NOT a match against the Gargoyles but girls/ladies v. boys/men of the village. Come along and have a go.