Your Parish Magazine, Issue 60, Summer 23

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In this issue... Grants available from GLPC See page 3 Meet your Councillors See pages 4 & 5 Section 106 monies to benefit the community See page 8 & 9 Summer Activities from GLPC Tear out and keep our handy guide to summer activities and events BRYAN TO THE RESCUE see pages 6 & 7 A r k F a r m 9 & 22 AUGUST FREE Come and pet a wide selection of farm and small animals, from sheep to rabbits and even a tortoise. 9 August 1pm 3pm Marsh Drive Community Centre 22 August 10am 12 noon Conniburrow Community Centre ACTIVITIES & EVENTS • BROUGHT TO YOU BY GLPC • A r t s & C r a f t s 23 AUGUST FREE arts and crafts session organised by Milton Keynes Arts Centre. Milton Keynes Arts Centre, Great Linford 1pm 3pm K I D S S U M M E R C E N T R A L 27 JULY & 3, 10, 17, 21 & 31 AUGUST Kids Summer Central will provide FREE drop-in children’s activities including computer games, board games and arts and crafts. Suitable for ages 5 - 14 LICF, Great Linford 9am - 3pm s h o w t i m e c i r c u s 8 & 16 AUGUST FREE circus skills sessions, join us to brush up on your jugglings skills and much more. 8 August 10am -12 noon Conniburrow Community Centre 16 August 1pm 3pm Marsh CommunityDriveCentre B O X I N G • LOCATIONS M e s s y P l a y CONNIBURROW COMMUNITY CENTRE ConniburrowBoulevard,ConniburrowMK14 GREAT LINFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL LegerDrive,GreatLinford,MiltonKeynesMK145BL INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP LegerCourt,GreatLinford,MiltonKeynesMK145HA GREAT LINFORD MEMORIAL HALL MarshDrive,GreatLinford,MK145AX MARSH DRIVE COMMUNITY CENTRE MarshDrive, Linford,MiltonKeynesMK145HP MILTON KEYNES CENTRE Parklands, Linford,MiltonKeynesMK145DZ 15 AUGUST Come and have fun our FREE messy play session including swamp, bubbly mixture and slime! CommunityConniburrowCentre 10am 12 noon www.great-linford.gov.uk 24 - 31 JULY, 2 30 AUGUST, & 2 SEPTEMBER F boxing sessions from Keeping Kids Off The Streets (KKOTS). Every Monday at Great Linford Primary School under 10’s 6pm 8pm, over 10,s 7pm - 8pm Every Wednesday at Conniburrow Community Centre under 10’s 6pm 8pm, over 10,s 7pm 8pm Every Saturday at Great Linford Memorial Hall under 10’s 10am 11am, over 10’s 11am 12pm BLAKELANDS BOLBECKPARK CONNIBURROW DOWNHEADPARK DOWNSBARN GIFFARDPARK GREATLINFORD NEATHHILL PENNYLAND REDHOUSEPARK TONGWELL WILLENPARK News brought to you by Great Linford Parish Council Parish MAGAZINE Issue No. 60 Summer 2023 SERVING THE ESTATES OF BLAKELANDS BOLBECKPARK CONNIBURROW DOWNHEADPARK DOWNSBARN GIFFARDPARK GREATLINFORD NEATHHILL PENNYLAND REDHOUSEPARK TONGWELL WILLENPARK Your www.great-linford.gov.uk

Contacts

GLPC Parish Councillors, the wards they represent and their contact details.

All Councillor email addresses: firstname.surname@great-linford.gov.uk

Councillors can be contacted on 01908 606613

Conniburrow

Jimmy El-Zamek

Joan Pickhaver

Cladios Munangati

Downhead Park & Willen Park North

Mubina Chakera

Ed Nixon Chair

Downs Barn

Janet Brindley

Trevor Heale Vice Chair

Giffard Park & Blakelands

Sandra Trew

Vilas Sirah

Vacancy

Great Linford

Christine Onan

Donna Nicholls

Rick Dunn

Leigha Britnell

Neath Hill

Martin Burgess

Sean Porter

Penny & Bolbeck Park

Derek Harvey

Tony Blake

Redhouse Park

Franco Iannotta

Willen Park South

Vacancy

Summer2023

Comment

Hello everyone,

Now that election season is behind us things are settling down and the council is returning to business as usual.

We have seen some of our valued Councillors leaving and new Councillors joining.

I would like to say a huge thank you to those on the council who have chosen to move on, for their hard work and participation and on behalf of all of us at Great Linford Parish Council, I wish them well for the future.

I also extend a warm welcome to our new Councillors who joined us in May and I look forward to working with you all. We have the largest contingent of Councillors we have had for a number of years which is great to see.

Please check our website (or our list on the left) to see who now represents you on the council.

We continue to offer a number of different events and schemes across the Parish and will look at new initiatives which will add value and support to residents.

Our website is continuously updated with dates and times of existing and new events and we also use social media (Facebook, NextDoor, etc) to ensure that we reach as many people as possible.

Using these channels also means that we make ourselves as accessible as possible to all residents.

I look forward to seeing you at the events and would love to hear any suggestions or feedback you may have in respect of Great Linford Parish Council and the services we offer.

Many thanks.

Could we grant YOUR WISH?

A reminder that the Parish Council has a sum of money in the annual budget that is used to provide small grants for organisations and groups in the area whose work directly benefits residents.

All applications need to explain how the local area will benefit if successful, and each request is reviewed by the Parish Council. In April we awarded a total of £4,186 to a number of deserving clubs and charities, including Conniburrow Friday Club, Darry’s Garden, Friends of Conniburrow Children’s Centre, Friends of Great Linford Manor Park, Squirrels Children’s Centre and St. Andrew Bellringers.

We also gave a grant of £496 to MK Melting Pot. “We are delighted to receive a grant to deliver Cost of Living Cooking sessions to residents living in the Great Linford Parish area,” said Jade Jaiyeola from the Melting Pot, “The grant will enable us to purchase slow cookers and supplies to teach the community basic cooking skills, and introduce them to new tasty recipes that will help them reduce food costs and wastage during the cost-ofliving crisis, and beyond!”

This grant will enable the new session within the Parish, and teach key life skills that will allow residents to save money on food but still eat healthily. The sessions will also give opportunities to sign post residents if greater support is needed.

Keeping Kids off The Streets received £500 to provide equipment for their newest session within the Parish, at Conniburrow.

Join us on our dementia-friendly journey

Great Linford Parish Council is working with the Alzheimer’s Society to become Dementia Friendly to ensure that GLPC is accessible for all members of our community.

We are doing this by organising Councillor, staff and public training events. We will also make changes to our facilities, activities and events to ensure we can open them up fully to everyone.

Details of the free sessions will be posted on our website and through our FB page.

Please come along to learn more about dementia and how we can all play our part to help those affected.

KKOTS now has three different venues within the Parish: Great Linford Primary School, Conniburrow Community Centre, and Great Linford Memorial Hall. Organisers are seeing an increase of participants at the Conniburrow session, and therefore require more and better equipment.

GLPC provided the RSPCA MK & North Bucks with £660. “We are absolutely thrilled,” said fundraising coordinator Shirley Jones, “The cost-of-living crisis has had a massive impact on people being able to properly care for their pets and as well as taking in some cats and rabbits when owners cannot cope we are also providing a pet food bank on Monday mornings in Great Linford.

“This has been such a lifeline for local people they are now queuing before the RSPCA MK van arrives! The contribution from the Parish Council will help to keep this service going. In parallel we are doubling the cat sanctuary provision to enable us to cope with the increased influx of felines. This means more can be housed prior to allocation to foster families and forever homes,” Shirley added.

The next round of grants will be made in September and applications are now being invited.

Parish Manager

Eirwen Tagg parish.manager@great-linford.gov.uk Parish

Grants will not be given to activities that support or oppose political parties or religion, or on grounds of race, age, gender or disability.

If you are interested in applying for a grant and meet the criteria, head to www.great-linford.gov.uk for an application form.

Community grants 2 YourParishMagazine SUMMER
www.great-linford.gov.uk
Council Office Great Linford House, 1 St Leger Court, Great Linford MK14 5HA Tel: 01908 606613
Front Cover: Photo courtesy of Bryan Lea Your Parish Magazine Editor: Sammy Jones
SUMMER YourParishMagazine 3

Meet your PARISH COUNCILLORS

On behalf of all our residents, Great Linford Parish Council extends a warm welcome to our new Parish Councillors following the recent elections, and to those familiar faces who are returning to their roles.

VILAS SIRAH, Giffard Park & Blakelands

What made you stand for election?

“So that I could help to grow a multicultural community, and help to keep the local area pleasant for all of us who live here.”

RICK DUNN, Great Linford

What would you say to encourage others to step up and represent their area as a Councillor?

Here’s a little introduction to those people representing you...

CLADIOS MUNANGATI, Conniburrow

What made you stand for election?

“Because strongly believe that Councillors are the eyes of the community. The development, achievement and success of the community hangs on the shoulders of the Councillors. I am passionate about the development and the success of my community.”

JOAN PICKHAVER, Conniburrow

What do you love most about being a Councillor?

“I’ve lived in the area for more than 30 years and felt the need to give something back to my local community, and was fortunate enough to be elected as a Parish Councillor. want to work with residents to make our estate a place to be proud of.”

JANET BRINDLEY, Downs Barn

Why is it important for you to represent Downs Barn?

“I have lived here for over 30 years and during this time the local community has been my lifeline. Becoming a Parish Councillor has helped me discover more about the Parish and this in turn has given me the opportunity to help the community which has supported my family over the years.”

ED NIXON, Downhead Park & Willen Park North and Chair of GLPC

What made you want to become a Councillor?

“I have lived in Milton Keynes for over 25 years and in Downhead Park for most of that time. I have three grown up boys and a grandson and we all live within the Great Linford Parish. Becoming a Councillor seemed like a good opportunity to give something back after 25 years of living here and also to use my background to help deliver benefit into the community through our many initiatives. Having seen the children grow up in the Parish wanted to help GLPC provide value to the community for future generations as well.”

TREVOR HEALE, Downs Barn and GLPC Vice Chair

What made you want to become a Councillor?

“That’s easy – the people! There are a few crusty ones, but they are few and far between. The vast majority are so open and generous that it makes events wonderful to attend. Take the monthly litter picks, for example – the enthusiasm and love residents have for their estates is contagious and we have a great time.”

SANDRA TREW, Giffard Park & Blakelands

Why did you want to be elected as a Councillor?

“I wanted to be elected to influence decisions that impact our neighbourhood, and contribute to positive change; enhance community spirit, address local concerns and help to shape the future.”

“I would say that becoming a Councillor is an excellent opportunity to serve your community and make a difference in people’s lives. It is a chance to represent the views and needs of your community, and to work towards creating a better future for everyone.”

DONNA NICHOLLS, Great Linford

Why is it important for you to represent Great Linford?

“I live in Neath Hill and work in Great Linford and feel very fortunate to be part of such a lovely community. have lived in Milton Keynes for many years, my kids were brought up here, after which spent a few years living in Germany prior to returning to the area in 2020, and I am so happy to be back. My life is fully intertwined within the area and I am passionate about doing my best to represent the needs and interests of our residents.”

CHRISTINE ONAN, Great Linford

What makes this Parish so special?

“The housing in Great Linford is designed in groups instead of rows, which naturally forms supportive communities, and there are lots of open spaces connecting roads and estates. Great Linford has interesting buildings and other structures which tell the story of the history of the people who lived here before us, and how they lived.”

SEAN PORTER, Neath Hill

What makes this Parish so special?

“Great Linford Parish is the core of a group of estates which were uniquely designed, one of a kind and that we are unlikely to see again. Its community and beauty are valuable. We have loads of picturesque green space and a diverse mix of people, many of whom have lived here all their lives.”

MARTIN BURGESS, Neath Hill

What made you want to become a Councillor?

“I decided to become a Parish Councillor after seeing the neglect that was happening by Milton Keynes Council. You hear people moaning about this and that but can’t be bothered to get off their backsides and do something about it. “It’s not my job” you hear as an excuse - that’s from people who only think about themselves and not the wider community! The more that get involved in Parish Council business as a volunteer or Councillor, the more that gets done and the better it is for everyone.

TONY BLAKE, Pennyland & Bolbeck Park

What made you stand for election?

“I have lived in Pennyland for 43 years and often found myself in conversation with my neighbours about things we would like to see. I’m retired now, so I feel this is my opportunity to do, and not just talk.”

DEREK HARVEY, Pennyland & Bolbeck Park

What do you love most about being a Councillor?

“For me it’s about being part of a likeminded, community-focused team of officers and Councillors that is doing a lot of good work helping people in these difficult times through its services, facilities, and partners. It also puts to good use some of my past experience and skills and lets me give something back into the area whether litter-picking, reporting issues or just generally helping out.”

FRANCO IANNOTTA, Redhouse Park

What are you currently working on?

“Together with a few other residents, I am looking to improve the Redhouse Park play park - facilities to include some street furniture, higher fencing around the Multi Use Games Pitch and not forgetting to fix the muddy entrances at each end of the goals, to give one example. The role requires me to think wider than our estate and am going to enjoy getting out and about. I feel passionate about making a difference, and am honoured to support the Parish.”

If you have a question, want to raise an issue, or want to get involved more in your community, please contact your councillor by emailing: firstname.lastname@great-linford.gov.uk

Councillor news
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Swanning around for the good of our water birds

Bryan Lea has been heading up MK Swan Rescue for the past decade, and for the last three years of those he has been accompanied on his rescue missions by Helen Shield.

Bryan and Helen (an HR Manager by day) operate under the banner of national charity The Swan Sanctuary, Shepperton who are a fount of knowledge regarding swan matters.

In 2022 Bryan and Helen were called out 126 times, and it really is a labour of love; they self-fund and pay for their transport and equipment costs in order to help the birds.

The work consumes our Great Linford resident, but how did you get started?

“I was at Willen Lake with my wife when we saw Margaret Burke rescuing a swan,” Bryan recalled, “We got talking and offered our help. At that time Margaret was rescuing all sorts of birds and mammals. We started off by being the transport section and then with training got into doing rescues. Eventually Margaret closed down and I carried on but only rescuing swans and water birds.”

Bryan’s working life began with East Midlands Electricity Board back in 1967 as a draughtsman, and most of his career was spent as a Drawing Office Supervisor, before retirement called after 37 years. ‘Putting his feet up’ is clearly a line that Bryan has never heard!

Bryan and Helen provide a valuable service that many of you won’t even be aware of; they work diligently and quietly, rescuing those in need with a minimum of fuss. Even if the birds sometimes make that difficult! And then what?

“We take injured birds to either St Tiggywinkles at Haddenham near Aylesbury, Animals in Need at Little Irchester or the Waterfowl Sanctuary at Godmanchester. We are very grateful to them and they do a wonderful job in returning our birds to full health.”

MK Swan Rescue covers Milton Keynes and only rarely goes beyond the boundaries, but as we’ve explained,

there is plenty to occupy them here. How bad do you think things would be if you didn’t volunteer your services?

“Pretty bad,” he thinks, “Birds with broken legs and wings would be at the mercy of foxes. Birds found on the roadside would be involved in accidents and might even cause road traffic accidents. Most of our rescues are swans, some geese and the occasional duck. Ducks, if they can still fly are particularly difficult. In the past I have rescued four herons. They have to be treated with the greatest respect because of their dagger like beak.”

Swans get into all sorts of problems – some of their own making, and some are definitely the result of people failing to respect nature. “The main issues are fishing tackle, landing in the wrong place, dog attacks and territorial disputes, Bryan explains, “Swans can be very vicious with their own kind, even going so far as to try and kill any intruders to their territory.”

In the past, Bryan has been called to Hanslope Park, His Majesty’s Government Communications Centre, which proved a bit of a tricky time: “A young swan had landed in the top secret establishment and it was tougher getting in than actually rescuing the swan!” he laughed. “Another swan went on holiday to Woburn Center Parcs and found it sat on the beach with a leg injury.”

Bryan is 75 years old, and by his own admission, he’s ‘not in the best of health’, but leaving our city’s birds to fend for themselves simply isn’t on the agenda. There are some exceptions to his working practice these days, mind you: “If there is any running involved get Helen to do that!” he

Nominate your Parish Champion

The third annual GLPC Resident Recognition Awards will be hosted at the Conniburrow Community Centre on Saturday, October 14 – and we need your nominations!

says, “In some ways rescuing is what keeps me going and knowing that what we do does make a difference. It is a wonderful feeling when you release back into the wild a bird that was once at death’s door.”

Bryan and Helen are keen to increase their number and would love to hear from any residents who would be interested in stepping up to support their valuable work.

“The only requirement for anyone hoping to join us is that they have their own transport,” Bryan said, “We can train you and you don’t have to buy anything to start with.

“Eventually you might want to buy a canvas dog carrier, net, waders and buoyancy aid. Staying safe is of the utmost importance, and we always operate with two of us when near water.”

There are no set hours, some unusual situations to manoeuvre and – hopefully –the release of another magnificent bird at the end of your involvement.

Is this the challenge you’ve been looking for?

Drop an email to bryanlea@hotmail.co.uk

If you find a swan or other waterfowl in distress or in need of help, please call MK Swan Rescue on 07472 753256 or 07787 400047.

Donations towards their important work are always welcomed.

We say it often and it is true that our Parish is home to some exceptional people who donate their time for the community, but we want you to tell us who are the most deserving, and why. Maybe you want to applaud someone who gives their time to one of the many Parish initiatives to support groups. Perhaps your neighbour spends hours every week batch cooking for those less fortunate.

Maybe you know someone who calls in on the elderly, or the vulnerable to check they are keeping well. Do they do care for gardens or pop to the shop to pick up essentials for the less mobile?

“Our Parish is full of people making small, but significant contributions to the community and celebrating those people and their selfless actions is important,” said Tommy Hayes, “Last year’s award recipients were fantastic, and I’m sure this year will exceed expectations too.”

There are no categories, instead you make a simple nomination by heading online to our website at great-linford.gov.uk or pop into our office on St Leger Court and pick up a paper form.

The closing date for entries is September 30, but why wait?

Get on the case now and cast your vote(s) for this year’s Parish stars.

Community wildlife Community wildlife
When our water birds get in a flap, there’s one Milton Keynes man whose expertise is called on to sort out the issues, and sometimes stop feathers from flying – and he’s a resident of our Parish.
LEFT: Bryan Lea about to release a swan at Willen Lake. TOP: Bryan and Helen working on swans with fishing line hooks in their necks and fishing line around swan’s tongue (inset).
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RIGHT: Rescuing an oiled swan from the canal.

Section 106 improvements to benefit the Parish

Development of new housing brings with it a demand for facilities and services that may put strain on the existing ones. Good examples of this are for schools, sports and recreational facilities, waste and recycling, and transport to name just a few.

To make sure developers don’t put the burden of providing these on the local council, as part of the Planning Approval for the development they are required to enter into an agreement with Milton Keynes City Council in whose area the development is taking place. The agreement means they will pay sums of money to the council who will then use it to add to or improve the local services that will be affected. This is a ‘Section 106 Agreement’ which spells out how much will be paid, what it must be used for and, sometimes, where the money should benefit.

The Project Board consists of four residents, two Ward Councillors and two Parish Councillors together with a Project Manager. Their work is to develop ideas, obtain public opinion on the options, determine the choice of work to be done and ensure best value for money is obtained in delivering the final selection. Once done, GLPC will apply for this money.

Milton Keynes City Council is currently holding money paid by the developer of the extension to Redhouse Park, that can be used to improve public facilities such as Marsh Drive Sports Ground. GLPC has set up a Project Board to direct and oversee some much-needed improvements that will be funded from the Section 106 funds. This will bring added benefits to the Parish community, without it impacting on things like council reserves or increasing the precept.

“Members of the public often ask, ‘Why can’t this money be used for something else, such as helping food banks or other good causes,” says Andrew Morphet, Project Manager, “The answer to that is the money is only required to be paid to enable something needed by the new housing development.

“It is not a gift by the developer, it has to be paid to meet a specific need resulting from the development. Another comment often made by the public is, ‘I’m not interested in sport, the environment, play facilities, public art or whatever the money is allocated to’ and they ask why they should get involved,”

Andrew said, “In many ways this is the same issue as some would say ‘I have no children, what

The improvements identified so far include:

General

Improvements to the old pavilion

Outdoor Picnic and games tables/benches

Outdoor fitness equipment

Sports Club storage with landscaping

Ranger workshop/store with landscaping

Landscaping around the car park and the pathway to the pavilion

Tennis

Replace court fencing and boards

Create an on-line booking/access system for the public court

Cricket

Two new sight screens

Electronic scoreboard

Football

Goals that can be left outside and wheeled around

has play equipment got to do with me’, or “I don’t like art, why spend money on this when there is something more important to spend money on?’” he continued.

“In any community, there are people with different interests and priorities and it is the duty of council to try to meet the needs of all residents. Just like we may not agree with how the central government spends our taxes; if we are not a driver we may not want them spent on new roads. If we are pensioners with no children, we may not see the value of spending on youth services, but if we have grandchildren, then our view might be different.”

If successful in our bid for the money, we hope to have these improvements in place in 2024.

It is always good to hear the views of residents - especially where they have the opportunity to express preferences for or against a particular matter.

This is of great value to those charged with making decisions on behalf of other residents and whilst it is never possible to please everyone all the time, it does help them in their discussions. Even

if you have no direct interest in a particular matter, helping to form a wider view for the community as a whole is important.

On the same theme of Section 106 funds, Redhouse Park and Great Linford residents have recently completed a survey on ideas for the use of some further Section 106 money for play equipment.

The Project Board have considered the responses and prioritised the top 4 preferences:

Benches and tables (some with games boards (76% support)

Adventure trim trail between RHP play area and Great Linford (68% support)

Higher fencing around the RHP MUGA and hard paths to the entrances (66%)

Rope swings and sharing swings (65%)

The improvements mean better leisure facilities for residents, a place where they can sit, play, use fitness equipment, and play football, cricket and tennis.

In this case, the Project Board will be considering the results and formulating a preference list which will then be passed to Milton Keynes City Council for implementation.

Parish improvements
Great Linford Parish Council wants to help Milton Keynes City Council develop ideas that residents would like to see and has set up a Project Board consisting of 4 residents, 2 Ward Councillors, and 2 Parish Councillors to support this. The Project Board has identified some initial ideas and would like to know how you feel about them. They also invite other ideas on how to use this money (it must be spent on play, adventure, and fitness) in Redhouse Park and Great Linford. What are your thoughts on the initial ideas illustrated here? What other ideas would you like to see included? At the moment, we have no specific locations in mind but are keen to hear what sort of things you would enjoy or make the most of. If you are a resident of Redhouse Park or Great Linford, we would very much like to hear from you. Please use this leaflet to capture your ideas or go online and complete the response form. The initial consultation will be for the next four weeks. After that, we will collate all the ideas, consider possible locations, work with landowners, and work with Milton Keynes City Council to develop as many ideas as possible within the funds available. Final proposals will be publicised, and you will have the opportunity to provide input again. our ideas... Install Higher Fencing around the ball games area at Redhouse Park Play Park and provide proper pathways to the entrances to the Redhouse Park MUGA Create an Adventure /Trim Trail between Redhouse Park and Great Linford Provide Rope Swings and Sharing Swings Create a Parkour Area Obstacle Course Develop a Reading Corner Create an All-Age Climbing Park Install Benches and Tables (some with games boards) Trail of Children’s Activity Boards Create a Mini Play Activity Trail Images featured are for illustration purposes only. Have YOUR say on Play, Adventure, and Fitness www.great-linford.gov.uk Milton Keynes Council has received money from the developers of the housing on land to the North of Redhouse Park to be used for Play, Adventure, and Fitness equipment for younger and older children, and adults. SUMMER YourParishMagazine 9 8 YourParishMagazine SUMMER

news&views

why not send us your news & views?

We welcome your views. Please send your letters to:

Post

Parish Council Offices

Great Linford House

1 St Leger Court

Great Linford MK14 5HA

Email glpc@great-linford.gov.uk

GROUNDBREAKING OPPORTUNITY FOR CAMPHILL MK

As mentioned in the last edition of Your Parish Magazine, Camphill MK Communities has announced plans to double the number of individuals with disabilities they support, as part of a major £15m expansion plan. Planning permission was granted weeks before the 2020 Covid lockdown, and on June 1 the breaking of the ground at the charity’s second site in Pennyland was marked.

This first new accessible house will offer accessible accommodation for six adults with learning disabilities and autism, with a further four houses planned for the site once funds are secured.

The Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Countess Howe was among those who marked the start of the expansion programme.

“I have absolutely loved my visits to Camphill MK this

year and in the past; I have always been impressed by the warmth and sense of community that Camphill MK offers,” she said, “But we are all ageing and will need additional support in the future, so this is a really exciting ground-breaking opportunity, Congratulations to all those who have masterminded the project.”

GRANTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Schools, local youth organisations and individuals in the Parish are being invited to apply for a grant from the Great Linford Advancement in Life (GLAiL) charity.

Perhaps you are a young person seeking funding for a special project, or a teacher who understands that a grant could support activities.

GLAiL income comes from investments that originated in trusts, the oldest of which dates back more than 300 years.

Each year the service offers small amounts of money to worthy opportunities.

In the past it has benefited the community by supporting school visits for children whose families were unable to meet the full cost, has assisted with travel, material and equipment costs for individuals, and enabled school projects in the Parish. Anyone aged 25 or under can apply for a grant - up to £200 - from the education and training charity. For an application form or more information contact the charity secretary on 01908 482520.

SOROPTIMISTS SAY THANKS FOR SOS SUPPORT

MK Soroptimists extend their thanks to Parish residents who have supported their work by donating toiletries at their drop-off point in the GLPC office.

The group is part of a global women’s volunteer movement working to transform the lives of women and girls, by providing advice, advocacy and taking action to make a difference.

They support a number of charities here in Milton Keynes; MK Act, MK YMCA, Citizens Advice and the Winter Night Shelter.

MK Soroptimists are also providing support to Ukrainian families who have relocated locally because of the conflict.

Items for their SOS – Save Our Smellies project – can continue to be dropped off at our office in Great Linford during usual opening hours.

“We are grateful to everyone who has donated so far,” said MKS Treasurer Jean Smith, “We do a lot of good work with local charities and abroad, and your support is greatly appreciated.”

MK Soroptimists have a branch meeting and friendship lunch every month and new members are welcome.

If you would like to know more, drop an email to soroptimistsmk@gmail. com or search Soroptimists Milton Keynes on Facebook.

FUN AND FRIENDSHIP WITH THE WI

Great Linford WI is currently looking for new members. The WI provides women with fun and friendship and

presents opportunities to learn new skills and partake in a wide range of activities.

If you are looking to get more involved in the local community, this is the perfect way to do it.

The WI was established more than a century ago to give women a voice on a local and national level, and the Great Linford group includes women of all ages.

Great Linford WI meets at 7.15pm on the second Wednesday of each month at Fulwell Court, St Leger Drive (Sat Nav it: MK14 5HB).

If you are interested in learning more, email maryhorne85@gmail. com call 07940 299504 or simply pop along to one of the meetings.

A WHEELIE HAPPY ENDING!

When Parish resident Mikey Carson took a tumble from his bike outside the Marsh Drive Community Centre, he was taken to hospital for treatment – but his bicycle was left in situ.

Great Linford Parish Council kept hold of his bike and set about reuniting him with the tandem bike he had custom built and made into an e-bike.

“It’s very distinctive, and knew Mikey would be missing it,” said Lisa Warner, Communications Officer with GLPC, “I thought that even if he wasn’t on social media someone might see the post and contact him. I set about

messaging cycling groups across Milton Keynes, and contacted neighbouring Parish Councils and other community groups on Facebook. was delighted that the power of social media managed to reunite Mikey with his bike.”

ADDICTION ISSUES IN THE FAMILY? DAFS IS THERE FOR YOU

Addiction isn’t just as issue for the affected individual –the ripple effects can impact family members too, of course.

If you are struggling watching the suffering of a loved one, there is help available locally for you – not-for-profit group

Drug & Alcohol Family support (DAFS) offer a safe, nonjudgemental, confidential and supportive environment for you to meet with others facing similar situations.

One-to-one sessions on Zoom and Whatsapp are also available, and sibling groups

operate every month. For more information call 07598 346244 or email lynn.fox@ dafsmk.co.uk or valerie. forsey@dafsmk.co.uk

WORRIED ABOUT FUEL POVERTY? HELP IS AVAILABLE

Better Housing Better Health is a free service run by the National Energy Foundation working to help residents living in, or at risk of, fuel poverty to access free advice and support.

The charity has a free to call helpline and team members on hand to give valuable tips on how to stay warm at home, provide free home energy visits, and sign up those in need of additional support to the Priority Services Register.

It can also access grants for energy efficiency measures.

If you think Better Housing Better Health could benefit you, call the helpline on 0800 107 0044.

• BROUGHT TO YOU BY GLPC • B r e a

WEEKLY EVENTS

a n t e r £1 breakfast roll with a hot drink

Monday 9.30am - 12.30pm

1 St Leger Court Great Linford MK14 5HA

C o m m u n i t y F r i d g e

C

Great Linford Community Fridge

FREE food giveaway to prevent surplus food from waste

Monday & Friday 11.30am - 12:30pm

2 St Leger Court, Great Linford MK14 5HA

Great Linford Community Hub Community Café

Monday, & Friday 1pm - 4pm Thursday 10am - 4pm

2 St Leger Court Great Linford MK14 5HA

Top Up Shop

Store cupboard items available to buy. 10 items for £2 or 20 items for £4

Tuesday 10am - 11.30am

Conniburrow Community Centre 37-39 Conniburrow Blvd Conniburrow MK14 7DX

Conniburrow Social Space Community Café with FREE lunch and activities

Tuesday & Friday 9.30am -1pm

Conniburrow Community Centre, 37-39 Conniburrow Blvd Conniburrow MK14 7DX

B o

KKOTS GL Boxing Session

FREE Boxing Sessions for Kids.

Mondays 6pm - 7pm, under10s, 7pm - 8pm over 10s Great Linford Primary School, St Leger Drive, Great Linford, Milton Keynes MK14 5BL

Wednesdays 6pm - 8pm u10’s 6pm 8pm, over 10’s 7pm 8pm. Conniburrow Community Centre, 37-39 Conniburrow Blvd Conniburrow MK14 7DX

Saturday 10am - 12pm 10am-11am under 10s, 11am-12 over 10s. Great Linford Memorial Hall, Marsh Drive Great Linford MK14 5AX

BLC Fridge

FREE food giveaway to prevent surplus food from waste

Wednesday 4pm -6pm

Friday 12.30pm - 2.30pm Bramble Avenue Conniburrow MK14 7AP

Downs Barn Community Larder

A membership-based scheme where surplus food is saved from waste

Tuesday 11am -12.30pm

Cross And Stable Community Centre Stable Yard, Downs Barn Milton Keynes MK14 7RZ

C o f f e e o n t h e c o r n e r

Community Café Wednesday 10.30am 12.30pm

The Salvation Army Ramsons Avenue

Conniburrow MK14 7BA

C a f e f o r L u n c h

Great Linford Social Club Community Café with lunch (donation)

Tuesday 12pm 4pm

1 St Leger Court

Great Linford MK14 5HA

ABOVE: Mikey happily reunited with his bike.
a s
&
k f
t
B
o m m u n i t y C a f e
F r e e L u n c h
F o o d B a n k
B i g L o c a l F r i d g e
C o m m u n i t y L a r d e r
x i n g f o r k i d s
For further details call the Parish Office on 01908 606613 or visit our website: www.great-linford.gov.uk SUMMER YourParishMagazine 11 10 YourParishMagazine SUMMER
BELOW: Countess Howe, Tim Davies CEO of Camphill MK, Mick Legg Mayor of MK and Alison S Resident at Camphill MK.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

27 JULY & 3, 10, 17, 21 & 31 AUGUST

Kids Summer Central will provide FREE drop-in children’s activities including computer games, board games and arts and crafts.

Suitable for ages 5 - 14

LICF, Great Linford 9am - 3pm

Puzzle Corner

Another opportunity to give your brain a mini-workout with our puzzles – complete the word ladder and solve the anagram, and then get creative with the colouring pens.

Puzzle answers below.

Every Wednesday at Conniburrow Community Centre under 10’s 6pm - 8pm, over 10,s 7pm - 8pm

Every Saturday at Great Linford Memorial Hall under 10’s 10am - 11am, over 10’s 11am - 12pm

FREE circus skills sessions, join us to brush up on your jugglings skills and much more.

8 August 10am -12 noon

Conniburrow Community Centre

16 August 1pm - 3pm Marsh Drive Community Centre

Can you solve our anagram?

Dates for your diary...

July

Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd

Gumbles Fun Fair at Marsh Drive Community Centre12pm - 3pm and 3.15pm - 6.15pm*

Monday 24th - 2nd September

September

Saturday 2nd

Downs Barn Litter Pick 10am - 12.30pm

October

A r k F a r m 9 & 22 AUGUST

FREE - Come and pet a wide selection of farm and small animals, from sheep to rabbits and even a tortoise.

9 August 1pm - 3pm

Marsh Drive Community Centre

22 August 10am - 12 noon

Conniburrow Community Centre

Summer Activities and Events

A range of activities and events organised by GLPC to keep the kids busy throughout the summer holidays. Tear off and keep the attached leaflet or see our website for further details.

August

Saturday 5th

Neath Hill Litter Pick 10am - 12.30pm

Saturday 14th Recognition Event at Conniburrow Community Centre 1pm - 3pm

Saturday 21st Apple Day at Downs Barn Orchard 1pm - 3pm

And don’t forget...

Our Weekly Events

Visit our food banks or pop in to the café for a cuppa. Tear off and keep the attached leaflet or see our website for further details.

Try your luck at our word ladder THING 1 2 3 BRICK And finally...
events to look out for Local events to look out for
Local
SAND
answers: ANAGRAM Downs Barn. WORD :SThing,LADDER Think, Thick, Trick, Brick.
BROWN
Puzzle
BROUGHT TO YOU BY GLPC • A r t s & C r a f t s 23 AUGUST FREE arts and crafts session organised by Milton Keynes Arts Centre. Milton Keynes Arts Centre, Great Linford 1pm - 3pm K I D
S U M M E R C E N T R
L
S
A
s h o w t i m e c i r c u s
AUGUST
8 & 16
B O X I N G • LOCATIONS • M e s s y P l a y CONNIBURROW COMMUNITY CENTRE 39 Conniburrow Boulevard, Conniburrow MK14 7DX GREAT LINFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL St Leger Drive, Great Linford, Milton Keynes MK14 5BL LIFE INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 3 St Leger Court, Great Linford, Milton Keynes MK14 5HA GREAT LINFORD MEMORIAL HALL Marsh Drive, Great Linford, MK14 5AX MARSH DRIVE COMMUNITY CENTRE Marsh Drive, Great Linford, Milton Keynes MK14 5HP MILTON KEYNES ARTS CENTRE Parklands, Great Linford, Milton Keynes MK14 5DZ
events
AUGUST
*Partner
15
fun at our
messy
session
swamp, bubbly mixture and
Come and have
FREE
play
including
slime!
12
www.great-linford.gov.uk 24 - 31 JULY, 2 - 30 AUGUST, & 2 SEPTEMBER
Conniburrow Community Centre 10am -
noon
Great Linford
under 10’s
-
10,s
-
FREE boxing sessions from Keeping Kids Off The Streets (KKOTS). Every Monday at
Primary School
6pm
8pm, over
7pm
8pm
Your Parish Newsletter: published by Great Linford Parish Council (GLPC), is not affiliated with any other group or organisation, whether political, religious or otherwise. The opinions in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of GLPC. All reasonable attempts have been made to clear copyright before publication. Contact GLPC on 01908 606613 or via the website at www.great-linford.gov.uk. GLPC Councillors voted not to receive payment for the time they commit to Council affairs. Designed and printed by Eagle Graphics (Printers) Ltd, Unit 1 Firbank Court, Firbank Way, Leighton Buzzard Bedfordshire LU7 4YJ. For any print enquiries please telephone: 01525 384893 or visit www.egp.uk.com www.great-linford.gov.uk
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