Leafletting

Hello,

As the election draws nearer (and I am seeking relecation) it becomes more important to get my message of achieved action out to a wider audience than this website can manage. I do distribute the 'Wesham Watchdog' We are currently on issue 28, which works out that I've delivered 4 newsletters every year I've been your councillor.

However, I need help from people who may be willing to delivery say 100 leaflets on their streets and nearby. 100 leaflets takes around 15 minutes.

If you feel able and willing to help out I would very much appreciate that. Between now and the election there will be up to 3 more leaflets.

Please get in touch if you can offer any help at all.

Thank you,

Simon
simon@wesham.com 681983

Drains

Following my recent photo taking tour of Wesham's drains, the County Council has agreed to have them cleaned out as they say 'it should be an easier enough job'. I'll keep on top of this and report back when they've been done.

Regards,

Simon.

2,000th hit

This website has today registered its 2,000th hit, which I believe is remarkable in as much as it is only 6 months old. I will continue to make entries on the website with news, views and opinions.

Let me have yout thoughts about the site and I'll take them on board.

Thanks you all for visiting.

Simon
simon@wesham.com 681983

Kirkham's Parking Crack Down

Hello,

There is much publicity in the local papers about the Polices crack down on dodgy parking. I have today written to the Inspector to get him to look at some of the areas of concern inWesham, especially round the junctions of Catherine Street, Albert Street, Segar Street and Rawlinson Street. My concern, which I is shared with residents is parking within 10 metres of the junctions of these streets with Weeton Road and Station Road.

If you need any further information, please contact me.

Regards,

Simon
Simon@wesham 681983

Another Back Alley Cleaned Up

Following my requests the back alley on Catherine Street has been cleaned up. I'm always available to litter grot spots cleaned up. Just get in contact with me and I'll sort it out.

Thanks,


Simom

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Morland Avenue

As you can see from this picture of Morland Avenue, it is in a bit of a state, with churned up vergers and litter. I have asked for Morland Avenue to be the next to be litter picked and I have also asked, the Borough and County Council's, Michael Jack MP and New Fylde Housing (who own the land) what they can collectively come up with to ease this situation and create more parking spaces which will stop this churned up mud getting into peoples homes.

If you have any ideas please get in touch.

Regards,

Simon
Simon@wesham.com 681983

Pot holes

The top picture is a hole in the Pavement at Morland Avenue and the bottom is on Market Street.

Since the county seem to be in a good mood and are responding to my requests, I've forwarded them on some pictures of pot holes and they seemed to have responded positivley. As you can see from these pictures, it's not just the roads, but the pavements that have them. I'll keep you all informed as and when the work is carried out.

Railway Safety

Hello,

This is the fence that separates Knightsbridge Close open space from the Railway track. I don't think it's very safe, do you. I'm investigating the ways in which we can address this safety issue with a view of tightening up safety.

Regards,

Simon.
simon@wesham.com 681983.

Getting more work done.

As you can see, after a asking the County to address this issue of the traffic bollards to be sorted, the county has obliged. The body of the bollard has been replaced and other work is being carried out next week to reinstate fully what a car accident brought about.

I think the lesson here is, if at first you don't succeed, try and try again, and it pays off.

I also believe this goes for the other broken bollard, although at the time of writing I've not seen this myself as I forgot to look at it as I cycled past.

More action achieved

I wished I had a before picture of this. However, trust me this piece of land at the bottom of Garstang Road South where it joins Segar street has been litter picked and the litter bin outside the Stanley Arms has also been emptied following an intervention from myself.

I will continue to get Wesham cleaned up to the best of my ability, even if I have to do it myself, and on that note I've asked for a litter picker and some black bags from the council.

Regards,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Fylde Inpendent's offer higher taxes and lower investments

Hello,

A week or so ago I mentioned that I help write the Conservatives Manifesto for the forth coming elections. The first pledge is to sort out Parkwise. The overzealous parking attendants and to bring the enforcement of parking under the control of the council which will see a return to common sense, a yellow card scheme and a local councillor appeal panel. Sensible suggestions for sensible parking arrangements in the Lytham and St. Annes. (I'll just clarify that Mill Street and other car parks in Kirkham will remain free)

Parkwise have given the council some concern and the Conservatives want to see a sensible approach to this. We released this pledge to the papers and they contacted who a leading opposition councillor for a quote. Her response was an off the top of her head comment that all parking would be free under a council lead by the Independents. I wonder if they were full consulted and on what evidence is this a good idea.

It sounds like a good idea I know, but when you stop and think about it there would be two horrendous consequences. Firstly, you'd never be able to park in Lytham or St. Annes as people would abandon cars all over and not return to them all day. This would not help trade and lead to falling sales as it did when the police gave up on parking enforcement and before Parkwise started.

The second and the most devastating is it would lose £300,000 a year in income in profit, that's nearly 7% on the council tax. That's 20 bin men or litter pickers jobs, that's three times the investment on young peoples facilities that the Conservatives have made this year. Take that income away and you have a black hole in your budget, not just this year but every year. And what's more that's profit, you still have to maintain the car parks and pay none domestic business rates on the car parks. The £300,000 suddenly doubles and what chance has a council got of ever investing in services or building the play parks and such like that residents want.

In life every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Scrapping car parking fees and the opposite reaction could be shutting the pools and no more work on Memorial Gardens. The suggestion shows naivety beyond belief and a reason why these people made such a bad job last time round.

I know I've banged on a bit about this, but it does beggars belief that this could be a serious suggestion from someone who is serious about running a council with your money. No wonder Government Inspectors thought they were weak with a void of political leadership.

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Is this early LCC action?

Hello,

Just driving through Wesham before I noticed a Lancashire County Council employee taking pictures similar to these of the pavement outside the Post Office. Could this mean that the County is going to address the problem of Wesham's patchwork pavements after I've highlighted the problem?

Regards,

Simon

simon@wesham.com 681953

Sometimes it's like a brick wall

For weeks I've been on to County Hall about these bollards and it has been like banging my head against a brick wall! I've now taken this picture and some more to send to the County as I'm sure they don't believe me. Out of the 6 on Station Road, two are broken and the remaining 4 need a really good scrub. This is an issue I wont let go as it spoils the look of the Town, especially as it's now coming up to the season where the Civic Pride Trust start planting up.

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

The Drains

Cycling and walking round the Town today I was appalled by the condition of the drains. I have sent a strong e-mail to the County asking for them to arrange for them to be cleaned out properly. As you can see, they are bad and they will only get worse.

Good first impressions count!

As first impressions count, I've asked the council to clean up the 'Wesham' sign as you drive into the Town from Kirkham. As you can see it's in a poor condition, and Wesham has a lot to be proud about so let's make a good first impression!

Sunday Cycling Surgery

Having got back from this weeks surgery, I've had three appointments today, I can say this is an excellent way to get to see the issues that concern you and I'd be happy to come out and see anyone that needs any help. You can ring me on 681983 or e-mail simon@wesham.com

Some of the issues I've dealt with today regard over growing trees and bushes. I've also asked for the abandond fllod sign down Mowbreck Lane and the Men at Work sign on the Doorsteep Green to be removed.

The picture is me, with Joshua and jakob enjoying the spring sun on the park at the Doostep Green.

Council Tax Bills

Hello,

You should have by now have received your council tax bills. You'll notice that Fylde Borough put its tax up by 4.9% which is effectively 15 pence a week, at the same time we found efficiency savings of £841,000 without cutting front line services and found around £200,000 of investments in community priorities including £103,000 on facilities for young people.

However, you may have also noted that spending of waste collection has shot up from £2.3m to about £6.5m. Don't be alarmed. The reason for this is Fylde now empty the bins and do the recycling of the whole of Fylde and the whole of Wyre Borough, so that's Fleetwood, Poulton, Garstang and as far north as the Trough of Bowland, in total about 55,000 more properties. This brings income into the council and allows us to spread costs more efficiently. The jump in the cost is nothing other than the fact we empty many more bins.

I'd also like to point out that Fylde Council's recycling is nationally recognized and we win awards and the service is one of the best in the country. Are last performance indicator showed we only missed 26 bins per 100,000 collected. That's great service.

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Kirkham Baths

Hello,

I see that Kirkham Baths has again featured in the paper with another half truth and water muddying diatribe. I think it would be helpful to explain a little bit of history here.

About February last year something went wrong with the electrics of the baths. The insurance comapny were informed and the withdrew the cover as it was too risky. This is on top of the fact that the Council would never put people at risj and since electricity and water do not mix under any circumstance, the decision was taken to close the baths while a repair was affected.

At first the quote to repair was given at over £250,000. The council just did not have that money, although we were looking at ways that we could have found it. This is where it gets muddy. At the same time it was the budget process. The council had savings to make and as happens every year the council officers produce a list on every possible savings and it's then up to Councillors to say yes or no to what's one that list. Every year we say no to the pools, but every year were are asked. It's called democracy and balancing priorities. It's sensible and it is right to do so.

However, some people put two and two together and whipped up a storm for their own political ends. There was mud put in the water and it proved hard for the general public to believe what was the facts and what was not.

During all the public debate a more detailed evaluation was undertaken of the work required and that estimate came in significantly less. The council did not hesitate to get the pool repaired and re-opened and as an apology for the inconvienance I authorised a weeks free swimming to get users back in the pool.

While the council was aware of the public support to re-open the baths and I am encouraged by that support in the need to maintain rural swimming, the council took the decision to repair the baths and re-open them beacuse we wanted to and because we could.

Since then on several occasions the Conservative group and the Conservative Cabinet have reaffirmed that the level of swim provision be at least maintained in the Fylde.


Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

New Police Action

Hello,

In a recent newsletter I raised the issue of poor parking around the corner of Catherine Street and Weeton Road. I mentioned there may be a need for double yellow lines as a last resort. I'm happy to say that the police have responded positively to this and double yellow lines may now not be needed.

The local Inspector has assured me that his officers will be looking at bad and illegal parking in Wesham with some vigour. I take his words at face value and look forward to some action and an improvement of the service.

On a similar note I've asked for the Speed Indicator Devices to be placed in Wesham again for a couple of weeks, just to gentle remind people that Wesham is a 30 mph area.

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

New Contacted Launched

Hello,

To make it easier for people to contact me I'm offering an new ring back service. If you text me I'll call you back within 24 hours.

My mobile number is 07837 361258.

So, for the cost of a text on your mobile I can help you sort out your issues of concerns.

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Michael Jack's Advice Bureaus

Hello,

Just to let you know that if you need an appointment to see Michael Jack, the member of Parliament for the Fylde, you can call Alison on 671533. Michael has 19 dates throughout the year, the next one from today is Friday 20th April at Cottam School. The Bureaus are held all over the constituency, the next one in Wesham is Saturday 3rd November at Wesham C of E School.

Or you could see me about your council issues by booking a time on my Sunday Bike Ride.

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Conservatives Support British Forces Families

At the last cabinet meeting the Conservatives supported a call from Tewksbury Borough Council to call for the re-introduction of a free postal services to British Forces Families serving overseas.

Although not at the meeting, due to a late train, I fully support this call and I hope that other calls in the country support it also and that the Government listen and do this small gesture of goodwill to keep the lines of personal communications open between home and the oversea bases.

Simon,

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Mobile Skate Park Trial

Hello,

The date has been set for the mobile skate park trial, which is the 11th April. Venue to be decided, but hopefully somewhere in Wesham. If you know any young people who are into skating, please let them know about this. The more people that come down and trial the park the better.

I and the Conservatives are determine to provide this young persons facilities and also to invest in a permanent BMX and Skate Park somewhere in the rural area.

Regards,

Simon

Dog Dirt

It seems dog dirt has become an issue of massive concern with lots of comments about it coming in. I think we need to look at a way of reducing the problem and educating people. I'm arranging a meeting with the manager for next week and I'll report back what we've agreed.

If you have any hot spots for dog dirt let me know so we can get the area patrolled.

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

PS. I'm away on Business until Thursday, so there'll be no updates until Thursday. However, this is mylast planned trip away for some time so I can concentrate more fully on serving Wesham.

More trees

Hello,

Wesham has been offered first pick of 62 2 year old saplings for planting in the Town. Have you any public open space in mind where an additional tree or so can be planted?

Let me know,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Car Crash

Hello,

I've noticed that a car looked like it came off the road and down the embankment around Eskham Close. I've asked our parks department to have a look at the damage and repair / replace any trees.

Regards,

Simon

Failed at the first hurdle

I mentioned in a previous post that the Independent and Ratepayer Councillors (who controlled the council badly for 12 years earning Fylde it's POOR rating) are joining forces to form a new party. The New Party launched to great fanfare and acclaim by some in the anti progress section of St. Annes, has actually fallen at their first fence!

They were so busy getting excited about the prospect of victory, they actually forgot to register themselves as a political party with the Electoral Commission, a legal requirement! You have to ask the question, 'if they can't get a Political Party up and running, what chance have they of running a council?' On top of that question, ask what their policy was. The answer is to scrap every bit of progress the Conservatives have made. A great reason to be in local government, to pull down, not build up!

No doubt as the elections draw nearer, we'll see more of their games, incompetency and deliberate water muddying with half truths and scare stories. But, I'll always use this site to say how it is and to keep readers informed of reality, not fantasy.

As usual, comments to simon@wesham.com or ring 681983.

Dog Signs

Hi,

Dog fouling seems to be again at the top of peoples issues list. I've asked for the dog wardens to step up patrols in Wesham and I have passed on areas of where it is a particular problem. I've also asked for a review of the dog fouling signs.

If you have any ideas about what else could be done, please let me know.

Thanks,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Blue Bags

Hello,

Just to let you know that I've got a small supply of blue bags, so if anyone needs another one of their original has been lost, let me know and I'll bring one round.

Thanks,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681 983.

Issues of Concern

Hello,

I've been busy writing e-mails and letters this morning, to the police about poor parking enforcement, the County about the bollards in Station Road and New Fylde Housing about Morland Avenue, again.

I'll let you know the results as and when they come in.

Regards,

Simon.

Back at it!

Hi,

I'm back from Birmingham, but my train was over an hour late so I missed the cabinet meeting. However, news I wanted to share was that the Audit Commission has graded Fylde's use of resources.

It shows we are in the top 25% of councils in the country for spending per head of population and the quality of our services. The up shot is we deliver more and better for less than 75% of all councils. I think this is great news as you truley know how to look after your council tax while serving your needs.

Regards,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

I'm Away

Hi,

I'm away in Birmingham on business until tomorrow night, so the website will be a bit quiet until Thuirsday.

I am however racing back on the train tomorrow night to get to the Town Hall in time for the cabinet meeting. I'll put some entries on about the cabinet meetings as there is some good news to be discussed and decided.

Regards,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Mobile Skate Park

Hello,

Clink on this link to see what the mobile skate park could look like.

Regards,

Simon.

http://www.tribeskate.com/docs/FLYER-MobilePkgMED.pdf

Mud on the Road

Cycling round yesterday I notice a lot of mud on the roads. I'll work with the developers and the Council to make sure the roads are kept clean.

I'm also chasing Lancashire County Council hard to sort out the bollards in the middle of the road, they are dirty and two are broken on the side. I think this will become a helath and safety issue and we need to get it address quickly.

A bit on Tax.

DID YOU KNOW?

The national tax bill has risen by £219 billion since 1997, equivalent to £9,000 per family.

More than one million workers – including teachers, police officers, and senior nurses – have been sucked into the 40 per cent higher tax bracket.

Income tax and national insurance are at the highest level for 20 years.

The number of people having to pay inheritance tax has doubled.

Council tax has almost doubled, thanks to Labour fiddling local funding,

The average home buyer is paying £1,000 more in stamp duty than in 1997.

By 2009, Gordon Brown’s new stealth taxes will have scooped up £20 billion in extra revenue.

By deliberately holding down the tax thresholds at way below the running rate of inflation, Gordon Brown has sneakily raised more than £10 billion from you.

The tax burden is now at its highest level in British history – almost a quarter of the average wage goes in income tax and national insurance. This year, you have to work for the taxman until June 3 before you start earning for yourself.

Under Labour, British households have suffered the biggest rise in taxation anywhere in the western world, warns the Organisation for European Co-operation and Development.

A little secret

Hello,

This morning I've been working onthe new Conservative manifesto with the Leader and Deputy leader. I can't reveal yet the details yet, least they are stolen before the election, but what I can say is that the present an exciting opportunity over the next fours for the development of Fylde in supporting our key priorities set by the public, assuming we retain control of the council.

Once the embargo has been lifted and the Conservative group has debated and approved the pledges, I'll reveal all here with details on what they are, how much they cost, when they will be delivered and what they will do for Fylde and Wesham.

Regards,

Simon.

simon@wesham.com 681 983

New name plate

Hi,

I meant to say yesterday that the new name plate for Market Street has been installed. I've asked for another 5 or 6 to be changed or cleaned, so we shoukd start seeing these pop up soon.

Cheers,

Simon.

Lib Dem Tax bomb shell

Hello,

I'd just like to point out that at a time when Fylde Conservatives have increase tax by 15p a week new Liberal Democrat tax plans would see the average tax of a Fylde family go up £672 a year or just under £13 a week.

Although I am sure some people may be willing to invest a little more in their local area, £672 is a little excessive and in most case could be the difference between a holiday or not and even between new school shoes or not.

Regards,

Simon.

More action as promised

Hi,

Out on my bike yesterday I'd noticed that Mowbreck Lane has been litter picked, which is real good news and that we've now got a new litter bin for the bus stop out side Wesham Station.

I have also been told that the fridge that had been dumped on Fleetwood Road by Demmingfield has now been removed following my phone call to the right person.

Again, what I promise, I deliver.

Thanks,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983.

Well Done the Bin Men

Following some complaints about the bin men not getting all the rubbish in the lorry on emptying day, I've had a report that they are doing a much better job now. When I received the first complaints I asked to manager to ensure they were inspected after their route round Wesham. This seems to have happened and the results seem positive. If this is not the case as I am led to believe, please get in contact.

Thanks,


Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Mobile Skate Park

Hello,

I have some more details on the mobile skate park. The company that makes and sells these units will be coming up to Wesham soon to give a demonstration of the kit they offer. The park comes out of a trailer so it is easily mobile.

I'm hoping the demo takes place sooner rather than later and so we can get the order in and have the unit delivered before the summer.

Once I have more details of time and location I'll post them here. But in the meantime if you know anyone who can skate, let them know about this exciting venture and we can get a good interest.

Thanks,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Sports Activities - Easter

Hello,

Normal Service resumes. Yesterday it was agreed that Fyldes Easters Sports camp will be held on the Fleetwood Road playing fields. I've not got the full details yet, but when I do I'll put a post on here. Usually what happens are Sports Coaches operate between 10:00 and 3:00 with a variety of sports, all children are welcome and if it's not free, it's only a pound or two.

Although this usually happens in the summer at Wesham, it is the first time this Easter, due to a double booking at Carr Hill. I'm really please that the council is operating ths scheme and am also please that we are trying out Weshem's facilities, with fingers crossed it happens every Easter.

Regards,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Unintentional Misleading Statement

Hello,

A bit of an apology to you for what was an unintentional misleading statement. I infered in a previous post that the main streets of Wesham were not swept on a daily basis. I believed this was a true matter of fact statement at the time of writing. However, someone else thought it was a slur. I have now been told that they were swept daily. I am happy to put this unintentional mistake right and apologise sincerely to anyone who may have been upset by this mistake. I did not intend to mislead you, the residents. Again, sorry to anyone who may have been offended by that statement. I do however, stand by all my other statements made on this website and on my leaflets.

If anyone has anything to say or comment on this issue, please contact me direct and I'll be able to explain further.

Regards,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

New Bin

Further to my cleaner streets campaign, I'm determined to get anew litter bin for the Bus Stop by the Train Station. I hope this will encourage people to use the bin and not the railway embankment.

Regards,

Simon.

County Council Issues.

As Part of my attempt to get the Town cleaned up, I've asked the County Council to clean those illuminated bollards in the middle of Station Road and also to fix the two that have come off.

Regards,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Fridge

I've noticed a fridge has been dumped way down Fleetwood Road, oppositie Demmingfield. I've asked for that to be collected. It's been there for at least 3 days, so hopefully it won't be a fourth. I also hope that there is someway to track the owner. Getting rid of an old fridge is a responsibility, they have to be disposed off correctly as they have gases that harm the environment. This person seems to be adverse to paying the fee, lets hope they can be traced and prosecuted.

Regards,

Simon.

Mowbreck Lane

Hello,

It was nice to see the county out recently resurfacing the pot holes at the end of Mowbreck Lane. They do seem to work sometimes!

While I'm on Mowbreck Lane, I've today asked for that to get litter picked. It's such a pleasent country lane with great views that it is a shame to see it spoilt with litter. I hope this will be done today, but if not today then soon.

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Primary Care Trust

I think I mentioned that I'm speaking to the Primary Care Trust that have the offices on Derby Road about a number of issues, including their lights being on till 23:00, the litter on the earth embankments, when the earth embankments are being grassed and what their plans are for the planting up the council offices that they are leasing.

I today received a reply say that the Chief Executive is dealing with these issues and will respond in due course. I'll keep on top of this and report back.

Sunday Bike Ride

Following last Sunday's washed out effort, I'm more determined than ever to come out this weekend. I'm out Friday evening and Saturday morning with the new leaflet and on Sunday I'll be cycling round with my family to check everything out.

If you'd like to see me on Sunday, please get in touch and we'll pop in and say hello and I'll listen while you talk about your concerns or comments.

Elve Diary Web Site

I think I need to make an entry on this web site about another website, not really for Wesham residents, but for others that come onto the web site to have peep about.

I've linked to www.battleforthetruth.blogspot before, and I will no doubt do it again as I find in clever and funny and a way of showing the games that some play at Fylde. I don't for one minute think that it's a substitute for real information and for real debate, but if it informs one person it's doing a job.

The reason I am mentioning it tonight is; I'm fed up for being given the credit for writing it. I don't know who it is, but I do wish them well. I can't prove it's not me no more than anyone can prove that it is, but I will say a few things in my defence.

1 I've never shied away from taking the credit for my work in my life. If it had been me, I'd have put my name to it. There is after all nothing liable on it and is just good humoured satire, the sort we British are good at.

2 The posts are done mainly when I'm at work. I'm not sure what other people's bosses are like, but mine would take a real dim view of that sort of thing while I'm being paid to do something else.

3 There are several hints on there to the identity of the author, I can't work it out, but it does not point to me.

Now you might think it's silly bringing this to your attention! However, I know the games other party's in Fylde play and before long you'll be told that I'm neglecting you as a councillor as I am spending all my time writing web sites while I should be at meetings or making phone calls etc.

Well, I can say without a shadow of a doubt, I'll never neglect my duties as a Fylde or Wesham Councillor, which is why I'm up at 11 pm writing entries to keep the people of Wesham informed of the issues that may affect them and the information you may want to know.

Wesham is pretty much top of my priority list, just below my children. I'll always fight for what I believe is best for Wesham and the Fylde and I'll never be scared of speaking my mind and ruffling a few feathers (see previous posts!). I'll never knowingly mislead you, and I'll never over promise. I'll always be honest and I'll always try and work things out, sometime it might take some time and sometimes it might not work out, but I can't really say much more than that.

As the elections approach, the heat will be turned up, people will try all sorts of tricks to unseat me and my Conservative colleagues as they desire the power and the money themselves. Some councillors rely on being a councillor to pay their mortgage so there is a lot to play for.

If I can say just one more thing. I've always been here for every resident in Wesham, I've never turned anyone away. I hope to be able to continue with in the future, but now comes the time when I have to ask for your support.

Thanks,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Mobile Skate Park

News hot of the press.

The £15,000 that the Conservatives on Fylde Borough Council, suggested by myself, is to help fund a mobile skate board park. I'm not too sure how these work, but simply it's a skateboard park that can move around on rota basis. I'm working with officers at Fylde to work up this scheme and will of course keep residents posted.

Skate Boarding seems to be one of those 5 minute wonders that has lasted. It's healthy and physical, so should be encouraged in the right environment. I'm all for them in fact and if it's mobile I'm sure that Wesham will be getting it's fair share of use.

I think this could be an exciting venture and prelude to more youth investment in the Fylde and Wesham.

Let me know your thoughts on this or any other issue.

Bye for now,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Ruffled Feathers

Hello,

It seems my earlier comments about the Independent Party's attempt to stop the refurbishment of Lytham Cenotaph has ruffled a few feathers. I can't really see why they should be so offended that I happened to point out my personal view that the honour of the war dead in Lytham is as important as that in any other part of the borough.

Some councillors don't think their decisions and actions have consequences that they then have to live up to. If you speed and get caught, you get fined. If you support an amendment that calls for the scrapping of a planned refurbishment of a war memorial to repair foot paths in some parks as you're scared of compensation culture, it's a question of priority and principle.

My priority and my principle will always be to support war veterans and to honour properly those who have fallen for their country. If you vote and speak against these, then motives have to be questioned and if you then realise that the questioned motives probably aren't that appealing to the public, don't shoot the messenger and take a closer look at yourself.

Fylde Conservatives set one of the best budgets I've been involved in. We've delivered stability, prudence and growth in priority areas. I'll make sure Wesham gets the benefit of that stability, prudence and growth as much as anywhere else. We're already starting in Wesham, we'll be having our streets cleaned better, our bin men are making less mess, we'll get the dog muck sorted, we'll provide more youth facilities, we've had a small amount of play equipment installed, we'll get some trees planted and we'll work as a community to make Wesham safer, cleaner, better. That's my promise and I am rather good at keeping my promises.

I really would welcome your comments and feed back on this issue. Have I got it wrong, or do you think like I do, remembering is important as forgetting is dangerous.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

Cleaner Streets

I know I keep going on about this, but I do think the streets are getting cleaner now the Borough is doing them. We still have some teething troubles that need ironing out (talk about mixing your metaphores) but once it's in full swing it will be like a different town.

The main streets will be swept and cleansed daily.

However, having said that, there is still an expectation that the streets should not be clogged up with litter if people did not drop it. So on top of the improved cleansing service, we should still be reminding people and encouraging people to use the many bins provided.

If there is a gap in litter bin provision, it can be filled by letting me know and I'll get one provided.

Thanks,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983.

New Candidates

I attended a meeting of the new Conservative Candidates last night, they were brilliant and dedicated people, if they get elected Fylde will go from strength to strength building on the slim Conservative majority that we currently have and adding a new depth of skills and experience from around the borough. I've got my fngers crossed for them, and only by have the Only one Borough party in control will all parts of the borough be treated fairly as they should.

Les Dawson Statue

Hello,

Today see the official launch of the Les Dawson Statue Fundraising Committee, which I'll be a member of. Les was a very funny comedian who chose to live in the Borough for many many years and brought joy nationally and internationally. Building a statue by public subscription and other fund raising activities will be good for the borough brining in additional tourist and brightening up a piece of Lytham and St. Annes with memories of his comic brilliance. It will also show the esteem that Les was held in by the public for future generations.

Some people in the rural area my say, 'so what' it's in Lytham and St Annes, again! However I'd respond that St. Annes is the tourist draw to the borough and the visitor economy is the boroughs third largest employer. These are local jobs that create local money that recycles itself around locally. How many people own their living or part of their living to the tourist pound? How many shops take money from outside visitors, how many of those shops, hotels and tourist facilities procure services and goods from local businesses and how many pay none domestic rates which Fylde Council and the Country benefit from.

It's all too easy to say Tourism and the Visitor Economy does not affect the Rural Areas, and you'll here that in the coming weeks from malcontents and small minded people chasing easy votes, but the whole borough benefits when the whole borough is looked after. Support the visitor economy and the amounts of cash it generates locally for the whole borough in something to be grateful for.

With tourism though and if we get it right there is also another benefit. How many people have a first rate beach on their door step? How many people have all the facilities that St Annes has to offer no more than a 15 minute drive away? All the hotels that offer first rate accommodation and venues? All the bars, pubs and restaurants that are all so great? Would any of this be here with out the market drive for tourists? And on top of that we've the best natural coast line and dune systems in a long way.

So I believe it is right to support the Les Dawson Statue and it is also right to support tourism, as without it we'll all be the poorer.

British Weather

Hello,

I've had to cancel the bike ride this weekend due to the wonderful British weather. I'm keen on not getting too wet, so I'll have a drive out later and check up of a few issues. I'm kee to get the few street signs replaced, including the bottom one at Weeton Road.

If you need me for anything, please e-mail simon@wesham.com or phone 681983.

Ta,

Simon.

More good news for the Borough's Young People.

I have today instructed my officers to put bids into the Local Strategic Partnership (a group of local stakeholders who have a budget to deliver key outcomes determined by the community plan, which is set by community consultation.)

The items I'm asking for funding on are; an extended sports coaching service, and skateboard / BMX experience days, support for a Young Environmental Group for Fylde and to support this years Party in the Pavilion music festivle.

I'm hoping these bids get support and we can deliver these programes this year which will benefit young people in Wesham and across the Borough.

Community Project Fund Scandal

Hello,

Another snippet from the budget. The Fylde Independents supported by twidle dee and twidle dum of the Liberal Democrats vote to cut £100,000 of community money from the budget to spend on their own pet projects. The Community Project fund contribution of £25,000 from the council grows into £100,000 with matched funding. This helps many different groups throughout the Fylde, including Wesham where it painted the bridge with work from the Community Pride Trust and also in Kirkham where it paid for the cover of the loom at Town End.

This money goes all over the borough and it was a Conservative manefesto Pledge, one of the 10 made in 2003 that were or are being delivered. Cutting it is petty and show that the Independent Group only care for themselves. We are one borough and what's good in one part has a benefit in all parts.

In short the whole of the borough is greater than the sum of it's indvidual parts!

I'm hoping that Wesham benefits in the coming bidding rounds of the fund with talk of a Town Clock and more floral displays.

Regards,

Simon.

The Bins

Hello,

The bins on Station Road, Garstang Road South and Weeton Road were emptied yesterday following my request to the borough council to do so, the Streets are also looking a little cleaner following the take over by Fylde of the cleaning. It is early days yet, but I feel sure we'll see a much better standard of service with more resources available. The cleaning by Fylde will include men with brushes and shovels and mechanical cleaning which will deep clean the gutters.

I'm meeting with the manager in charge soon to check on the cleaning schedule and I will then be able to report back as to how much more attention each street will get under the new arrangements.

However, be aware, there are some malcontents on the Town Council who actually do think the old system is better????? Bonkers or what, to do what the Borough can do we'd need at least £25,000 plus on costs and leasing fees for the machine, they are under the impression that we can do it based on the £9,000 grant we get from the borough to do this with a 3% increase and a little extra for a few meters of unscheduled road. Even if we get 20% more money That's only £11,800 in total, which is at least a third short and we'll be no better off! Where will the extra come from? And don't forget Wesham's about to get another doxen plus streets, which would test the Town Council resources further. There is no logic in this move to go back. So what would happen?

I can guess that we'll have two options, put up with substandard service again with streets clogged up with litter and the streets not on the main road never being cleaned, or residents paying twice, once to the Borough and once to the Town to make up the difference.

To tax locally for this service will cost each house about£15 to £20 a year, when you're already paying for that service, double taxation or what? I'm gald the Town Council showed common sense and this move to the Borough doing our cleaning has been high on my agenda since becoming a Town Councillor 18 months ago.

Ley me know what you think?

Do you want streets as clean as Lytham, St. Annes and Wrea Green or do you want us to go back to the old days of scruff and muck!

Regards,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com or phone 681983

The Streets

Hello,

I am talking today to the Manager in charge of cleaning the streets in Wesham. The bins Inote have not yet been emptied and there is litter on Station Road and Garstang Road South. The Town Councils Litter Picker is off sick and the Borough is doing it for the next two weeks, however there appears to be little teething trobles whichI aim to sort out today.

I am keen to get this sorted today as when the Borough takes over properly in August I want them to hit the ground running and knowing what they and the staff are doing to make Wesham's streets that much cleaner.

Thanks,

Simon.

Independent Disgrace

The most disgusting aspect last night was the vindictive and wicked attempt to disrespect the War Dead of Lytham. The young men and women who fought for their Country in Conflicts from the Great War, and the War against Nazi tyranny to Korea and others.

The Conservatives and myself have always had the greatest respect for those who fight and die when King or Queen calls. But the opposition don't fell the same, their leader had the nerve to lecture Councillor Eric Bamber on democracy, a Councillor from Ansdell, who fought in Japan and was a POW. Eric fought for democracy all the Independents do is use the sacrifice of others to play silly political games.

I supported a bid to renovate and refurbish Lytham War Memorial, just as St. Annes and Kirkham's War Memorials are being renovated and just as Weshams was several years ago with the new paving surrounds instigated by myself.

But these people, who have no electoral prospect in Lytham, spoke ill of the fallen by trying their hardest to destroy the memories of those from Lytham, who like those from Wesham and every other Village, Town and City in this Country and beyond made the ultimate sacrifice.

Shame on them, is what I say and this shame also falls on Wesham's other Independent Councillor!

Regards,

Simon.

Simon@wesham.com 681983

The Conservatives Did it!

Last night the Conservatives set the best budget I've ever seen at Fylde Borough Council, and we've managed to find £93,000 to invest in Youth Facilities. The Opposition Independents tried to throw in many election spanners by cutting nonexistentt budgets, already effective and efficiently managed services and by sacking staff to fund their own pet projects andandd areas.

Some of what they said may have been appealing, but in actual fact showed why they ran the council so badly for 12 years! The thought of having to make staff redundant when we are already one of the lowest spending councils in England is rank stupidity. Do these people not know that whenyou make people redundant, you have to pay redundancy money. So what kind of logic says will free more money up to spend on paying redundancy costs and then not actually have the staff to clean your street, empty your bin or inspect your planning application.

It does not take a genius to work out that will be ina worse situation, and then the question has to be asked, what happens to staff moral when those left behind fear the same fate next year and start looking elsewhere!

The reputation of Fylde across the country was rock bottom four years ago when the Conservatives took over. Now we have an increasingly sparkling reputation and people actual want to work for us, so we are getting better applicants for jobs who can delivery better services for you. We win awards and areinnovativee with the services we offer and how we deliver them.

The bottom line is that Fylde Tax payers will be paying 15p a week extra for theincreasinglyy better service that we deliver for you.

If you have any questions about the budget, just get in touch.

Regards,

Simon.

Don't foget the Surgery

Hello,

I'll be on my bike again this Sunday and every Sunday (as long as it's not too rainy!) If you need to speak to me or show me your concerns, just give me a ring and I'll come round and see you.

Cheers,

Simon

Simon@wesham.com or 681983

Are the bin men at it again.

I've had a report that the bin men are still not cleaning up after temselves. Let me know if this is a problem down your street and I'll get the pressure kept on to sort it out.

E-mail me on simon@wesham.com or call on 681983