The annual general meeting of St. Florence Community Council was held on May 8. Clr. Delyth Evans (chairman) and Clr. John Wolverson (vice- chairman) were both unanimously elected to serve a further term in office. A financial report was submitted by the clerk for the year ending 2005/2006. Among matters discussed at the meeting were the following:

PROGRESS ON ONGOING ISSUES

Mrs. D. L. Thomas was elected to fill the casual vacancy on the council created by the resignation of Mrs. V. Richards after many years of faithful service to the community. Three quotes were received for insurance cover at the Village Hall. A quote was accepted that solved the insurance problems encountered last year resulting in the cancellation of events in the village. After intensive discussions with the police, and on their advice, it was decided not to have 18th birthday parties at the hall due to the sensitive nature of the new Licensing Act 2003 involving underage drinking. Further quotes are required for the painting of the outside walls of hall. An application for the position of booking clerk was discussed and accepted. The new booking form for the hall, in compliance with the new Licensing Act 2003, was presented to the council and was duly accepted. A new lock is to be installed at the hall and a list of people compiled who have keys in their possession for access into the hall. The following problems at Longstone will be reported to the Pembrokeshire County Council: overgrowth and a collection of litter in the hedge next to the public walkway; complete the repairs and painting of the garage doors; repair the coping stones on the wall. Various drains that need repairs and unblocking will be followed up with the county council. Anyone having difficulties with insurance claims resulting from the lightning damage in November last year can now contact a BT phoneline displayed in the village notice boards to receive assistance with their claims. The new compost bins, to encourage recycling of household waste, will be delivered to St. Florence on June 19.

FINANCE

The following items were put forward for payment and approved: cutting of the grass verges in the village; a new sign stating that no unauthorised vehicles were allowed onto the playing fields; annual insurance cover for the Village Hall; and the clerk.

PLANNING

An appeal has been made to the Planning Inspectorate in respect of the site at Carn Springs, Devonshire Drive, Gumfreston. There will be a public inquiry and the date and venue will be advised.

CORRESPONDENCE

Pembroke and District Citizens Advice Bureau sent an invitation to their annual general meeting. The Citizens Advice Bureau is also asking for assistance in recruiting volunteers. The youth in the village supplied a letter of appreciation to the community council for erecting the basketball equipment at the hall.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Pembrokeshire County Council was informed that the convenience block at the shop in the village was not open during winter. A request was put forward that due to the fact that a cleaner is in the village every day of the year, there are always tourists in this area and for the convenience of the villagers, the ablution block should be open throughout the year.

NEXT MEETING

The next meeting of the St Florence Community Council will be held on Monday, June 12, at 7.30pm, at the Village Hall.