Several people have expressed concern over the breakdown of the grass cutting arrangements during the summer of 2004.

 

Historically, the Local Education Authority (LEA) paid the County Council for maintenance of school playing fields and for village areas used by schools.  Several years ago, the LEA changed its policy and gave schools individual budgets for all maintenance, including grass cutting.  Bamford School (under Mr Beaver) opted to cancel the County Council contract and make a private arrangement to have the grass cut in consideration for free use of the playing field.

 

In the event, nobody told the County Council operative that the contract was cancelled and he continued to cut the grass until earlier this year when his supervisor (who knew of the cancelled contract) had cause to visit the Recreation Ground and caught him in the act.  He immediately stopped all further work by the County Council on the ground.

 

The County Council estimate for grass cutting was in excess of £800 per year!

 

In 2005 we were able to negotiate a contract for the grass cutting of £800 for the number of cuts required to keep the football pitches and the old hockey pitch in prime condition.

 

In 2006 we have been able to agree the grass cutting contract for the same price as 2005.  Both years we have had a generous donation from the Bamford with Thornhill Parish Council.

 

Children's Play Area

 

After 30+ years of cutting the grass around the children's play area, Bill Thorp has decided to called it a day.  This means that the Recreation Ground is in need of a volunteer to take over.  If you can help, please contact Harry Beckett or any of the Committee Members.