To all the villagers of Great Blakenham, I trust you have kept safe and well during these somewhat strange months.
Anti-Social Behaviour/Littering
Like all villages within Suffolk, Great Blakenham Village Hall has had its share of anti-social behaviour and littering during lockdown. As the lockdown eases, the littering problem does seem to have reduced, but not fully gone away. So far as the anti-social behaviour is concerned, we have been advised the best form of action is to report it to the police via 101 or online each time it occurs. Any photos, number plates, or anything that can track repeat offenders is helpful also. We are aware that it seems to move from location to location. Please help us to keep our village safe.
We have had four new litter bins installed and funded by the parish council. These are intended to reduce littering around the hall and playing field. The dog bins are still in place for you to use. Dog fouling has greatly reduced, so I thank all responsible dog owners. It appears we have an issue with this when we have darker nights as I believe dogs are permitted to run and owners aren’t necessarily aware of their actions. Please be mindful of this.
External Windows and Doors
Thanks to Mid Suffolk District Council and Great Blakenham Parish Council who funded the project, post of the village hall external doors and windows have been replaced. It’s great to see that the tired and troublesome wooden windows have now been replaced by UPVC ones which look fantastic in brown from the outside and even better in white from the inside. On the back of these lovely new windows being installed, and before we fully reopen, the village hall is endeavouring to have the hall repainted internally. Thank you once again to both councils for their much-needed help.
The Cycle Speedway and football clubs are now back in training under COVID-19 restrictions in readiness for any possible fixtures taking part this year. Please keep an eye on their social media platforms for updates.
Dog Day
I have spoken to many dog walkers, and there are many of you! The plan is to have a very informal day ‘Dog Day’ with several events taking place, such as the most obedient, the most disobedient and best groomed, all in aid of fun. We may even be able to set some agility courses organised for the owners while the dogs sit and watch! Details will be announced via social media and in this magazine.
Recycling Bottle Banks
We now have four bottle banks on site, two for clear glass and two for green/brown bottles. Please make use of them.
Chairman, Terry Ashford