Covid 19
The Government has announced that in line with the rest of the country, Barlaston will be subject to tighter restrictions during November in an attempt to bring down the spread of the virus. Whilst the lockdown will not be as severe as that imposed in March it will nevertheless present challenges.
It is vitally important that we continue to look out for our neighbours and provide support where it is needed. The village has been commended for the way that it has supported those who cannot leave their hom
e and those that are frail. Without being intrusive, residents are asked to be vigilant in identifying cases of need. A phone call to someone living alone can be very important in helping to maintain social contact.
There is a real incentive in everybody pulling together to make this lockdown effective in that a major reduction in the incidence of the virus could allow people to spend Christmas with their families. There are a lot of people in the village who miss regular contact with their grandchildren and are looking forward to the festive season to meet up again.
The virus is clearly having a medical impact but there is also a mental health effect that cannot be ignored. There are strong support networks in the village, please make sure that they are used where needed.
Lengthsman
During November, Paul the Lengthsman, will be seen out and about in the Village attending to matters such as clearing moss from paths and clearing gutters, tasks that he is unable to deal with during the growing season. There are also some footpath signs down that he will be making good and if you notice anything that needs his attention please email the Parish Clerk.
Climate Change
The Parish Council is being encouraged to adopt local grass root policies that will help to combat climate change particularly in respect of maintaining green spaces and planting trees. We will look to change policies to buy locally where feasible to cut down on carbon emissions.
VilIage HalI
The work programme to renovate the Village Hall continues, new ceiling tiles have been installed and the main hall is currently being redecorated. The hall floor is due to be repaired and re-sanded next month.
Covid permitting it is hoped that the Hall will be able to re-open for a few appropriate activities before the end of the year.
Councillor resignation and appointment
Steve Hall of Lakewood Drive, Barlaston Park has moved to Eccleshall and resigned from the Parish Council. 
Steve served on the Parish Council for seven years and was particularly involved in planning issues. His contribution to Parish affairs will be missed. This leaves a vacancy on the Park and notices requesting expressions of interest on filling the position will be posted shortly.
It is good to report that Adam Hemming (pictured right) of Broughton Crescent has agreed to fill the vacancy on Barlaston East. Adam has lived in Barlaston for nearly four years and he is a senior manager at Fiskars.
Memorial Bench
A space on the Green by Orchard Place has been allocated for a bench to be placed in memory of Stan Phillips. Stan was a much loved villager remembered particularly for his work with the Barlaston Womblers in the latter part of his life. Collection boxes will be placed in local shops shortly.
Please give any general feedback on this Blog through your Ward Councillor or email the Parish Clerk on:
barlastonparishclerk@gmail.com
Gareth Jones