This is short and sweet this month as August is a quieter month for meetings and I am writing this in mid-September so I’m sure next month’s will be longer.

The Governance Review External Group (GREG) has produced its report and recommendations on how Cornwall Council might change its governance structures going forward. One very interesting comment is that Cornwall Council has a very good reputation outside of Cornwall, winning awards for its services, being granted the first devolution deal etc. but a really poor reputation inside. Why is that? If you have any ideas, do please let me know.

You may be aware that the boundary commission has published its first draft on how the boundaries of parliamentary constituencies might look when the number of MPs is reduced from 650 to 600. This includes the number of Cornwall MPs going down to 5.5 – that is, one of them will cross the Devon/Cornwall border. I joined a protest at Saltash when this was suggested some years back and it didn’t happen then but it is back on the agenda now so, if you aren’t happy about it, do please let our MP know.

I really enjoyed attending the horticultural show and presenting the prizes – what a talented lot you are. I don’t seem to have the creative gene so I am always impressed with people who do, but the

residents of this parish seem to be exceptional, not to mention the delights that had been grown and/or cooked. I must also say thank you for the lovely lunch. It was delicious and the lively company was an added bonus.

Finally, I haven’t yet had any requests for funds from my Community Chest from South Hill and over half the money is already spent! If you have any projects where a small amount of grant funding will help get things started, do get in touch.

Thank you. Cllr Steph McWilliam    01579 362037   smcwilliam@cornwall.gov.uk