The Coalition Government has recently announced that a White Paper to be issued soon will suggest giving far greater powers to parish councils.

Probably the cynical amongst us will feel that it is just another way for Westminster, county and district councils to reduce their workload as well as controlling their expenditure. The natural outcome therefore being that parish councils will have their budgets put under pressure rather than the councils further up the food chain.

However by having more control over their destiny and taking responsibility for their area, parish councils have a great opportunity to shape their community the way their residents want.

As a member of Ruardean Parish Council I am very much looking forward to the challenge of helping residents of Ruardean and The Pludds to take the bull by the horns. If anyone in the parish has any suggestions please let me know on 01594 541486 or by emailcolin guyton@onebillinternet. co.uk

– Colin Guyton, UKIP secretary, Forest of Dean Branch, The Great Barn, Park Farm, High Street, Ruardean.