It’s a privilege to be here this evening as Chairman of the Parish Council and reflect on the progress we’ve made together this year.

Thanks to dedication, collaboration, and shared vision, we’ve continued to strengthen our community and hopefully enhance life in our villages.

Halvergate and Tunstall remain shining examples of rural community spirit at its finest.

In a time when financial responsibility is more important than ever, I’m pleased to confirm that we have not increased the parish precept this year.

This reflects our commitment to managing resources wisely, without dimming our ambition for the future.

Take, for example, the incredible work at our burial ground. Thanks to Stuart, our Burial Ground Officer, and Billy, our Tree Officer, we’ve seen vast improvements—from enhanced drainage to a fresh, respectful appearance. With external funding from Cllr Lana Hempsall and the support of the Community Payback Team, we’ve tackled long-standing issues and restored dignity to this sacred space. Stuart oversaw this work with care and dedication, and Billy, with the help of resident Phillip Williams, even built and installed a beautiful new gate.

We’ve also gone above and beyond by continuing to fund grass cutting at the cemetery, a service outside our formal duties but one we know makes a difference.

Our Memorial Sunday event remains a cornerstone of village life. Charles has once again organized this moving occasion, bringing us together to honour those who served. And a special thank-you to Paul Youngs, whose efforts keep the memorial ground immaculate—an enduring sign of our gratitude.

This year, we successfully lobbied Norfolk County Council’s Highways Department to address vital infrastructure concerns. The result? Cleared pathways, improved drainage, and significant upgrades to Branch Road—delivering safer, more accessible routes for all.

Another highlight is Harefest—our amazing community festival. What began as a new initiative has the potential to become a village tradition with your continued support. It brings families together and showcases local talent and most importantly uniting hundreds in celebration. The Parish Council is proud to continue to support this vibrant event financially, and we thank the many volunteers who bring it to life.

And supporting our local economy is just as important. That’s why we nominated The Red Lion Pub to Broadland Council as an Asset of Community Value—a move to help safeguard its future as a vital gathering place.

Throughout the year, we’ve been a strong voice for residents in planning decisions, ensuring your views are heard and represented. And it’s encouraging when so many of you attend meetings when there are important applications to discuss —your involvement makes our work truly reflective of the community.

Our partnership with the Community Payback service has brought even more investment to our villages. Here, at the playing field, substantial enhancements have made the space more inviting for everyone—thanks in no small part to Stuart, Jed, and Carol (whose cakes definitely fuelled the team!).

These successes show what we can achieve when we work together, guided by shared values and a common purpose.

Looking ahead, we will continue building on this momentum. One major development is the agreement reached with the Church to sell the Village Hall.

While it’s never easy to part with a community asset, this is the right decision for our future. The proceeds will be reinvested with care and vision back into the village.

I’m also pleased to report that, thanks to the Clerk’s efforts, we’ve secured funding of circa £25k from Norfolk County Council for a new footpath from the village to the playing field—delivering safe access for children and families.

Finally, my heartfelt thanks to all Parish Councillors. Your time, energy, and commitment make this work possible. A special word of thanks to Robert, my Vice Chairman, whose wise counsel and vast experience have been invaluable.

Thanks also to Stu from Mill Road, who maintains the speed sign battery, and also to John Collins, who has volunteered to look after the sign on Marsh Road.

And of course, thanks to every single resident who quietly contributes—cutting grass, clearing paths, sharing ideas, or simply lending a hand. You are what makes this parish such a wonderful place to live.

Together, we’ve accomplished a great deal. Let’s keep moving forward—stronger, united, and proud of what we continue to build together.