The chairman of the parish council, Peter Gooding, presented his report at the meeting last week. 

He said that the PC was pleased to have been able to leave the parish precept unchanged for another year. 

He spoke of planning and explained the PCs opposition to the proposed re-routing of the cycle track up from the railway bridge. 

The overwhelming priority, however, was to separate the cycle track from the road at Lyndon Top.

The county council had assured the PC that money had been allocated to that project, and it was planned to be completed during the current financial year. 

On the Local Development Framework, he urged people to view the future proposals for development in Rutland on display for consultation until the end of June in the county council offices. 

All council house tenants were soon to be asked to vote for a proposed transfer of ownership of their homes to Spire Homes, which appeared to offer significant benefits.

There had been a small but unwelcome return of anti-social behaviour in the village last year and this year had seen a graffiti attack in the playground and to a car; the police had been helpful in tracing the culprits. 

A speed reactive sign will soon be installed at the western approach to the village.

He finished by thanking all who give time and effort to support the many activities that make Manton such an attractive place to live. 

Finally, Mike Stenson who had been clerk to the PC for 14 years, was thanked for his work and presented with a bottle of champagne and chocolates from the current councillors.

Edward Baines, our ward councillor, updated the meeting on county council matters, and questions from the public were then taken and discussed.