Stroud Distrct Council leader Geoff Wheeler keeps you up to date with what is happening at the council

 

MONDAY, July 28 —
Summer activities for five- to 12-year-olds
The start of our summer events programme for children.
Although district councils don’t run schools, as part of our commitment to health and well-being we do provide summer activities for schoolchildren over the holidays.
Parents who want their children to enjoy supervised, creative and active days can do so via our Kapers playscheme.
Whilst there is a charge, it is a fraction of the cost of childcare. The days promise to engage and entertain children with activities such as arts and crafts, games, competitions, drama, music, sports and activities.
The scheme runs at Katharine Lady Berkeley’s School in Wotton this week, from August 4-8 at Maidenhill School in Stonehouse, and for two weeks at Thomas Keble School in Eastcombe from August 11-22.
Visit stroud.gov.uk/kapers or call 01453 754508 for more details.

Tuesday, July 29 — Bonfire caution
Our environmental health officers have asked me to raise the issues of anti-social burning in gardens. Every summer they receive numerous complaints from residents regarding bonfires.
You might think a bonfire is a good way to get rid of rubbish, but they can be a major irritation to your neighbours — especially during hot spells like the one we are currently experiencing.
With windows open and washing on lines, it’s very easy to annoy others who live close by with unwanted smoke and smells.
The advice is to compost your garden waste wherever possible but if you do decide to have a bonfire, check the wind direction first; discuss it with your neighbours in advance; never burn household rubbish, rubber, plastic, foam or paint; don’t use accelerants such as petrol or engine oil.
Never leave a fire unattended; put it out with water if you can’t stay with it.
To complain about a bonfire, please call 01453 754478 or email environmental.health@stroud.gov.uk

Sunday, August 3 — World War One Centenary
Along with other council leaders and public figures I’ll be attending a special service to mark the centenary of the outbreak of World War One on August 4, 1914. It will set the scene for four years of commemoration.
Incidentally, from a local perspective, our Museum in the Park also has a programme of themed mini-exhibitions on the war running through to 2018.
It starts in November with a look at the experiences of local man, Samuel Watkins.
The museum has been loaned an extensive archive of material relating to Samuel and his family which will allow a very personal insight into the war.
The museum is also interested in hearing from societies and groups who may wish to contribute to its World War One programme. Visit museuminthepark.org.uk/world-war-one