2023 has been a very busy year starting with the completion of the wildflower meadow at The Leys, where we hope next year, we’ll see the meadow out in full bloom with a wide variety of wildflowers and lots of insects and bees.

May was the time for the local elections.  One Councillor did not offer himself for re-election but the remaining Councillors were all elected uncontested. We welcomed Balbir Dubb to the Parish Council and had two new District Councillors (Hannah Robson and Judith Ciotti) representing us at Wychavon District Council (WDC).

An important event for the Parish commenced in June with the field enhancement works at the Sports Field in Bretforton Road. This was a major operation that amongst many stages included spreading a mere 170 tons of sand to improve the condition of the grass.  Upon completing the enhancement works we were able to install a variety of outdoor gym equipment, a boules court and trim trail.  The facilities were formally opened to residents in October by the WDC Vice-Chair Cllr George Duffy.

For a number of years we celebrated the start of the Christmas season in Honeybourne by erecting a Christmas tree at the village hall and inviting residents to come and enjoy the festive activities that we arrange whilst switching on the lights.  This December we had our best event yet with food stall, craft fayre, children’s entertainment and a local band to play carols.

The official turning on of the lights this year was kindly carried out by Cllr Robert Rapheal, the Chair of Wychavon District Council.  We were also pleased to welcome a  VIP guest Mr Nigel Huddleston, MP.

The Parish Council appointed Brodie Planning to speak at the WDC Planning committee meeting, on behalf of the Parish Council, to object to the proposed outline planning application for up to 40 dwellings on Stratford Road, Honeybourne, where the members of the planning committee unanimously voted to refuse the planning application.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all residents and my fellow councillors a very Happy New Year and thank you for your support throughout the year.

Cllr Heath Jobes