At the start of a New Year - in Council terms - let me first thank my predecessor, Richard Micklethwait for his very entertaining offerings.

I know that they were looked forward to by many and if they have impacted on the numbers of hits on the website then I apologise for returning to a more traditional format and possibly reducing the website activity. Sorry.

There are a number of areas that should concern us currently. Ashley Turner, our Community Policeman will point out in his monthly report the need to be on the lockout, especially in Llanfair Discoed currently, for suspicious people.
There have been a number of break-ins so try to ensure garages and sheds are securely locked.

We have had complaints about dogs fouling the play area at Trewen. This is a well-used and popular place for children and certainly it is not suitable for dogs. Please keep them out. Even during the "Foot and Mouth" restrictions there should be no need for dogs to be in there.

On the matter of "Foot and Mouth" may we thank everyone who has co-operated in giving farms as wide a berth as possible. It may have prevented another local case.
We hear that Ministry Vets are inspecting livestock with a view to lifting the restrictions soon. Lets hope that is very soon.

When the crisis is over why not visit the Llanmelin Hill Fort? It's up the lane to Shirenewton, and can be accessed opposite Coombe Farm. Soon CADW hope to put in a small car park, complete fencing and the MOD are considering revised and improved .footpaths to it. How many knew it was there?

Concern is felt especially in Crick at present about the speed of traffic. Would all local people at least watch their speed through this area? The Police will be out with cameras when they can, but so far all attempts to get attention at County Hall to this problem have been unsuccessful.

You will have noticed the alterations to Bus Stops in the area. We are trying to get suitable arrangements for the shelter in the centre of Caerwent and will let you know what's happening as soon as we can.

Bad roads are an increasing problem especially in Llanfair. The road is due to be refurbished in the current financial year. Let's try to ensure it happens. Could as many as possible write to complain about potholes and general bad areas? The more letters the better. What about "Well Lane" in Llanfair? It's in a dreadful state. Would anyone like to take part in a "Best Pothole" Competition?

If you have a point of view which you consider the Council should be looking at, please let us know.

Phil Murphy
Chairman, Caerwent Community Council