Council seeks more information

THE council has given the applicant asking for planning permission on a Walton travellers' site until August 31 to supply it with more information.

Settlers on the site, on Warrington Road, had their 10-year permission to stay there expire in December - 18 years after coming onto the land.

But residents raised their concerns after a fresh application was registered on May 14.

Bill Smith has applied for permission to remain on the land and Philip Brown, who is the agent for the application, said it is 'vital' permission is granted.

Cllr Paul Kennedy (CON – Hatton, Stretton and Walton) also asked for more clarity on the application to be provided and praised residents for their behaviour.

If sufficient information is not provided by August 31 the application is set to be rejected.

Wasps buzzing after Ofsted rating

ST Thomas' Wasps out of school children's club in Stockton Heath has received a 'good' rating from Ofsted.

The club, which operates from within St Thomas' CE Primary School, on Parkgate Road, was praised for ensuring children enjoy their experiences as a result of committed efforts from staff.

The report added: "Children enjoy their time at the club – they have opportunities to make choices about what they would like to do which promotes their engagement.

"Experienced and well-qualified staff interact well with children, planning activities that children find interesting.

"They make good use of opportunities to support children to develop skills in preparation for school."

But it was not given an 'outstanding' mark because staff 'do not make the best use' of opportunities to promote co-operation between older and younger children.

However it issued key advice to ensure the environment is improved.

"To further improve the quality of the early years provision the provider should continue to develop the strategies to promote more effective co-operation between older and younger children," said the report.

"The provider should revise the morning routines so that staff have more time to interact and socialise with children as they come into the club."

Home love for band

THEY may have been across the country over the past year but Appleton band The Black Circles admit home is where the love is.

Former Bridgewater High School pupils Sam Bratley and Martin Saunders have had a whirlwind year gracing stage after stage on their tour but playing in the north has been a highlight.

Frontman Sam said: "We only did a couple of northern shows on the tour but it has been good to play nearer to home."

Village stroll

RESIDENTS are being invited to put their walking boots on and enjoy the fresh air for a stroll on September 20.

The five-mile route, which will commence from Broomfields Leisure Centre, is set to take place through Appleton and Stockton Heath.

It will begin at 10am. For further information call Steve Thomas on 01606 350537.