Introduction to GMK
Well, it doesn’t seem five minutes since I was writing the last introduction – where does the time go? But go it does and here we are again! Last time, I was anticipating the forthcoming elections and wondering whether we would have one in Gnosall for the Parish Council. As you all know, we did – and all members of the Council standing for re-election were voted back in, which was very gratifying. Thank you for your confidence in us. But we still had vacancies and you can read about our co-options later in this edition.
I am delighted to say that I was once again elected Chair by my fellow Councillors and I’m very pleased about that – one year is barely enough to get an inkling of what the role is all about and you really do need longer to get into it. But I love being part of the Parish Council because you get so much back from helping to make our parish an even better place. It’s a most rewarding job – we all have our particular favourite activities and I get a real buzz out of the Senior Citizens’ Teas and the Christmas Lights. I hope to feel a sense of achievement when our Dementia Garden is built – more of that later in this edition too.
Unfortunately, the village has had a few less pleasant events over recent months, including anti-social behaviour and the vandalism of several of our leisure facilities. This causes great consternation and distress and I’ve read many comments on social media saying how the village has changed for the worse, how bad behaviour is rife and how young people have no respect for other residents or property. Of course, for a small proportion, that’s true. But is it a reason to throw up our hands and decide that Gnosall is ruined? I think not. In fact, I think the response to these sad and distressing events is one to give us hope and confidence.
First, of all, consider the kind offers of help to fix the Grosvenor roof and the Chippy Jumps fence – much appreciated and entirely unsolicited. That’s the face of genuine community spirit in action. Think about how many local tradespeople supported the Library project and gave untold hours to make it happen. That’s stepping up when you see something needs doing. Finally, think of the outpouring of love and support for the family of Sam Myatt, tragically lost to us in January. All those people who have planned and worked to raise funds for a permanent memorial to him (approaching a staggering £20,000 now I’m told) those who have supported his family, they are the true face of our village. Generous, supportive, willing to go the extra mile – whether it be in responding to a tragedy, helping a good cause or working hard for BKV or GFest or Carnival – the people in our parish are second to none.
There’s a saying “When the going gets tough, the tough get going” and that’s very true of Gnosall. We may be downcast momentarily when bad things happen, but we don’t let it overpower us. Life has its ups and downs, its good and bad, and a large village like Gnosall is bound to have its share of anti-social behaviour. We’re not living in Camelot! But the real mettle of our village is shown by resilience and perseverance in the face of whatever life throws at us. No wonder we’re all proud to serve on its Parish Council. And with that thought – welcome to the July edition of GMK!
Cllr Gail Gregory
Chair of Gnosall Parish Council
Information
