ALMOST 60 per cent of residents who responded to a village survey held in Mitcheldean have flatly rejected car parking charges. But, in a new twist, 40 per cent said they would not be opposed to a small charge after the first hour.

The parking charges question sparked the most interest in a fascinating response to the village survey which has so far brought in 300 responses from households and 16 from businesses.

The results have been analysed by Gloucestershire Rural Community Council.

They say the headline responses include:

•68 per cent would attend a village carnival.

•64 per cent a car boot sale.

•51 per cent a fireworks evening.

•42 per cent an evening class in the library.

The findings reveal that over half of all households would like to receive further information on bus timetables and to be told more about local clubs and societies. Over half were in favour of a parish magazine.

The four biggest items of concern involved dog fouling, litter, the appearance of the village and speeding traffic.

Additionally, 68 per cent wanted to see flower tubs and hanging baskets and 61 per cent were in favour of Christmas lights. The survey also found 21 people willing to help achieve some of the ambitions and to assist with events and fund-raising. This is in addition to the 20 volunteers already involved.

Describing the response as "brilliant", a spokesman for Action in Mitcheldean said there was still time for people to have a say.

"We still have blank forms in the Town Hall and more feedback will be very welcome before the public meeting in the Community Centre on Tuesday, January 31when we will plan the next steps together."