Report to the Maiden Newton Annual Parish Meeting 15 April 2004

The Maiden Newton and Cattistock Transport leaflet was again produced and distributed to all houses in Maiden Newton.  The copies for Cattistock were passed to their clerk, Mrs Swatridge, who has reimbursed this Council for their share of the printing costs. I should like to record my thanks to Roger Smith for his help in the production of the leaflet and to Dorset Community Action for checking the accuracy of the information. Updated information has been published in the Herald whenever necessary. All copies have been used.

I have attended meetings of the Dorchester and Surrounding Parishes Transfer Action Group on behalf of the Council. The issue of Community transport has been discussed and the Parish should be receiving a questionnaire through which we hope to determine the number of residents unable to access public transport,

BUSES

The 211 Thursdays only service to Sherborne has been withdrawn.

TRAINS

Fewer complaints have been received this year, hopefully reflecting an improvement in service. Posnett's now hold a supply of "Complaints" forms.

I attended the annual meeting of the Bristol - Weymouth Rail Partnership in January and also the regular quarterly meetings of the Community Rail Working Party set up by Catherine Phillips, the Rail Partnership Officer. Each station or area from Westbury to Dorchester is represented. At this meeting promotion of the line and operating issues are discussed. There was the "Santa Special" and now the "Real Ale Trail".  The use of Maiden Newton Station is increasing.

COUNTRY CAR SERVICE

With 131 journeys made over the past year, the Country Car Service continues to meet some of the transport needs of the elderly or disadvantaged members of our community. The majority of journeys were to Maiden Newton Surgery but we were able to help family members make regular hospital visits in time of crisis.

Thank you to everyone who gives of their time in this vital community work. AGE Concern Shopping Service

The AGE Concern monthly minibus shopping service to Dorchester on the third Friday of any month continues to be very popular.  Pick ups are arranged to suit individuals but journeys have to be pre-booked. Ring 01305 269444 for more details.

Sally Falkingham

Maiden Newton Parish Council Transport Representative