Abingdon's £50k Jubilee celebrations bill branded 'madness'

6:00pm Wednesday 9th May 2012 in Abingdon Photograph of the Author By Ben Wilkinson, Crime Reporter. Call me on (01865) 425427

Angela Lawrece Angela Lawrece

OPPONENTS have criticised big spending plans for the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations in Abingdon as “madness”.

Abingdon Town Council has put aside £50,000 for next month’s four-day celebration, more than 20 times what neighbouring Didcot Town Council will spend.

Events to mark Queen Elizabeth’s 60 years on the throne will include a street party in Ock Street, bun-throwing, park festivals and firework displays.

But Angela Lawrence, independent member for Northcourt, said: “I think £50,000 is a horrific amount. It’s out of proportion.”

She added of the Queen’s reign: “It’s an achievement and, whether you are a Royalist or a Republican, I think we all admire the Queen.

“We can respect and celebrate 60 years but to spend £50,000 when there are so many things our town needs just seems mad. It is an irresponsible amount to spend.”

The authority, which has an annual budget of about £1.3m, also hopes to spend about £15,000 on a bandstand.

Samantha Bowring, Lib Dem member for Ock Meadow, said it was likely a significant amount of extra cash had been spent on administration and publicity.

She said: “I don’t think it is what people want.”

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Sandy Lovatt, leader of the Conservative-run council, said the authority hoped to reduce the cost to £30,000 through sponsorship from businesses and ticket sales to some of the events.

He said: “We feel we have to put on a big celebration.

“We are the second biggest town in Oxfordshire and we have a lot of tradition with events like the bun-throwing.

“The town is notable in it’s desire to celebrate royal occasions.

“We are getting great enthusiasm from the population on what we are doing.”

Aidan Melville, Labour councillor for Caldecott, said: “It may seem like an extravagance but it’s the Queen’s 60th Jubilee and it’s worth marking. But where we can be wise with budget, we should be.”

Didcot Town Council’s deputy clerk Karen Dodd said £2,200 would be spent on the town’s celebrations.

She said: “Didcot Town Council is mindful of the need to balance the expenditure of public funds against the desire to properly celebrate and commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.”

Wantage Town Council has budgeted £10,000 but expects to spend less than £2,000, and Wallingford Town Council said it would spend no more than £5,000.

Oxford City Council and Bicester Town Council are combining celebrations with annual events and do not anticipate extra spending.

Banbury and Witney Town Councils said they were funding celebrations through sponsorship from businesses.

Comments (66)

6:17pm Wed 9 May 12

PK Nuts says...

I hope all the councillors are giving part of their tax payers funded salary to cover this extravagant spending spree.
I hope all the councillors are giving part of their tax payers funded salary to cover this extravagant spending spree. PK Nuts

6:45pm Wed 9 May 12

wizardofox2 says...

"the second biggest town in the county" has no cinema, theatre, bowling alley or arts centre so i guess the £50k the Tory's are spending on this booze up is not money well spent, no wonder they lost over 400 seats in the recent elections !
"the second biggest town in the county" has no cinema, theatre, bowling alley or arts centre so i guess the £50k the Tory's are spending on this booze up is not money well spent, no wonder they lost over 400 seats in the recent elections ! wizardofox2

8:29pm Wed 9 May 12

saddletramp says...

http://en.wikipedia.
org/wiki/Banbury
http://en.wikipedia.
org/wiki/Abingdon,_O
xfordshire
Good to know that Sandy Lovatt is so in touch with what is going on,that she thinks Abingdon is the 2nd biggest town in Oxfordshire,despite being smaller than Banbury!
http://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Banbury http://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Abingdon,_O xfordshire Good to know that Sandy Lovatt is so in touch with what is going on,that she thinks Abingdon is the 2nd biggest town in Oxfordshire,despite being smaller than Banbury! saddletramp

9:31pm Wed 9 May 12

goridebus says...

Saddletramp - Sandy Lovatt is a man. Also, Abingdon is the second biggest town in Oxfordshire. Oxford is not a town.

PK Nuts - councillors don't have a salary. And please don't forget that councillors are taxpayers too!
Saddletramp - Sandy Lovatt is a man. Also, Abingdon is the second biggest town in Oxfordshire. Oxford is not a town. PK Nuts - councillors don't have a salary. And please don't forget that councillors are taxpayers too! goridebus

10:11pm Wed 9 May 12

PK Nuts says...

Ok will say hope the councillors are forfitting their expenses to fund this from the council tax funding paid by all council tax payers that we were unable to vote on and approve prior to them having a jolly on all our expense.
Ok will say hope the councillors are forfitting their expenses to fund this from the council tax funding paid by all council tax payers that we were unable to vote on and approve prior to them having a jolly on all our expense. PK Nuts

11:53pm Wed 9 May 12

Iain L says...

PK Nuts wrote:
I hope all the councillors are giving part of their tax payers funded salary to cover this extravagant spending spree.
What salary? £760 annual allowance which based on a day a week equates to an annual salary of £15 a day - ignoring any out of pocket expenses. You can criticise many things about us councillors but this is not one of them
[quote][p][bold]PK Nuts[/bold] wrote: I hope all the councillors are giving part of their tax payers funded salary to cover this extravagant spending spree.[/p][/quote]What salary? £760 annual allowance which based on a day a week equates to an annual salary of £15 a day - ignoring any out of pocket expenses. You can criticise many things about us councillors but this is not one of them Iain L

11:54pm Wed 9 May 12

Iain L says...

saddletramp wrote:
http://en.wikipedia.

org/wiki/Banbury
http://en.wikipedia.

org/wiki/Abingdon,_O

xfordshire
Good to know that Sandy Lovatt is so in touch with what is going on,that she thinks Abingdon is the 2nd biggest town in Oxfordshire,despite being smaller than Banbury!
She?
[quote][p][bold]saddletramp[/bold] wrote: http://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Banbury http://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Abingdon,_O xfordshire Good to know that Sandy Lovatt is so in touch with what is going on,that she thinks Abingdon is the 2nd biggest town in Oxfordshire,despite being smaller than Banbury![/p][/quote]She? Iain L

12:29am Thu 10 May 12

Abingdon Neil says...

It is the case that Town Councillors don't get big allowances, but that's not really the point.

£50,000 (probably more once staff time is accounted for) is a huge amount of money to spend on events that could be run for much less and still be just as enjoyable.

Why is the Town Council spending thousands of pounds paying for a big screen to watch a concert which could have been put on in local pubs, supporting town businesses at the same time.

Why is the Council paying for the closure of Ock Street for a day, and causing all the disruption that goes with it, when it could have run an equally good event on the Market Place or in Abbey Grounds?

Everyone would have been delighted with a traditional bun-throwing and a few extra events but there is no need to throw money at it like the Town Council seems to be doing.

Abingdon is indeed the second largest town in Oxfordshire. Banbury, which is the largest, is celebrating the Jubille with a number of events but spedning far, far less than Abingdon to do so.
It is the case that Town Councillors don't get big allowances, but that's not really the point. £50,000 (probably more once staff time is accounted for) is a huge amount of money to spend on events that could be run for much less and still be just as enjoyable. Why is the Town Council spending thousands of pounds paying for a big screen to watch a concert which could have been put on in local pubs, supporting town businesses at the same time. Why is the Council paying for the closure of Ock Street for a day, and causing all the disruption that goes with it, when it could have run an equally good event on the Market Place or in Abbey Grounds? Everyone would have been delighted with a traditional bun-throwing and a few extra events but there is no need to throw money at it like the Town Council seems to be doing. Abingdon is indeed the second largest town in Oxfordshire. Banbury, which is the largest, is celebrating the Jubille with a number of events but spedning far, far less than Abingdon to do so. Abingdon Neil

7:39am Thu 10 May 12

Lord Palmerstone says...

I think Didcot has the right figure-for Didcot. Not a place to go if you're celebrating anything. Perhaps they could persuade the eco-terrorists to scale the cooling towers . That'd be free and with any luck if it was a cold and windy day they'd fall off and give everyone a big laugh-again something that's not happened in Didcot in living memory.
I think Didcot has the right figure-for Didcot. Not a place to go if you're celebrating anything. Perhaps they could persuade the eco-terrorists to scale the cooling towers . That'd be free and with any luck if it was a cold and windy day they'd fall off and give everyone a big laugh-again something that's not happened in Didcot in living memory. Lord Palmerstone

8:34am Thu 10 May 12

wizardofox2 says...

I thought the Choose Abingdon Partnership should have taken on this event, they have a fund of over £60k p/a given to them and a full time bod on over £30k a year, no wonder the Abingdon is bottom of the pile, it's not joined up, has no proper plan and throws money at all the wrong stuff
I thought the Choose Abingdon Partnership should have taken on this event, they have a fund of over £60k p/a given to them and a full time bod on over £30k a year, no wonder the Abingdon is bottom of the pile, it's not joined up, has no proper plan and throws money at all the wrong stuff wizardofox2

8:57am Thu 10 May 12

Iain L says...

Hi Neil - maybe one to catch up on over a beer sometime, but just to pick up on a couple of your points.

The budget is indeed £50k but as Sandy mentions in the article the expected cost will be around £30k . As I know you are aware (I think we discussed the point at the agm) this is to do with prudent budgeting rather in case sponsorship did not materialise, however this money is not expected to be required.

The budget does include staffing costs relating to jubilee events.

Also these expected costs are approximately in line with what tge previous administration had earmarked for the event.

More importantly, I recall at tge agm that you welcomed that we were taking the jubilee seriously, so let's not spoil what will be a fantastic community celebration in June with party political point scoring.
Hi Neil - maybe one to catch up on over a beer sometime, but just to pick up on a couple of your points. The budget is indeed £50k but as Sandy mentions in the article the expected cost will be around £30k . As I know you are aware (I think we discussed the point at the agm) this is to do with prudent budgeting rather in case sponsorship did not materialise, however this money is not expected to be required. The budget does include staffing costs relating to jubilee events. Also these expected costs are approximately in line with what tge previous administration had earmarked for the event. More importantly, I recall at tge agm that you welcomed that we were taking the jubilee seriously, so let's not spoil what will be a fantastic community celebration in June with party political point scoring. Iain L

9:05am Thu 10 May 12

carioca says...

whether the final figure is 20 grand, or 50 grand, this is obscene. Given that people are hard pushed as it is, with the coalition cutting back on social services etc, how can be right to waste so much money on the outdated monachy? I am not going to be waving my flag come June, but why should I have to pay the bill. These out of touch cretins need to be voted out.
whether the final figure is 20 grand, or 50 grand, this is obscene. Given that people are hard pushed as it is, with the coalition cutting back on social services etc, how can be right to waste so much money on the outdated monachy? I am not going to be waving my flag come June, but why should I have to pay the bill. These out of touch cretins need to be voted out. carioca

9:18am Thu 10 May 12

Abingdon Neil says...

Hi Iain, always happy to catch up over a beer!

I strongly support Abingdon putting on good events for the Jubilee, my concern is that they are also good value for money and I cited specific examples of where I thought the same or similar positive outcomes could be achieved at less expense.

By 'party political point scoring' I assume you mean 'expressing a different point of view'?
Hi Iain, always happy to catch up over a beer! I strongly support Abingdon putting on good events for the Jubilee, my concern is that they are also good value for money and I cited specific examples of where I thought the same or similar positive outcomes could be achieved at less expense. By 'party political point scoring' I assume you mean 'expressing a different point of view'? Abingdon Neil

9:23am Thu 10 May 12

Iain L says...

Always welcome different views Neil - just not misleading facts :)

More importantly I think there's a plan for beer and curry on Tuesday (Richard organising) if you fancy joining us (I usually get outnumbered politically there so you can have done fun)
Always welcome different views Neil - just not misleading facts :) More importantly I think there's a plan for beer and curry on Tuesday (Richard organising) if you fancy joining us (I usually get outnumbered politically there so you can have done fun) Iain L

9:23am Thu 10 May 12

Abberdon says...

Delightful. But do any of our councillors have interests in local bakeries, which stand to make a fortune?

Perhaps OXFAM could be in attendance at the bun throwing to pick up all the dirty buns for the poor folk to eat later?

If the Queen came to town, she could be put to good use opening another charity shop, in the new revamped charity shop arcade once known as the shopping centre, and people from Didcot might flood over buying the gear to look a little smarter than now, eh Lord P?

I do hope we have a four day long Morris Dance intercounty dance-off up and down Ock Street with a 'stuff yer face with buns' eat-off to compliment it, that would be really good.
Delightful. But do any of our councillors have interests in local bakeries, which stand to make a fortune? Perhaps OXFAM could be in attendance at the bun throwing to pick up all the dirty buns for the poor folk to eat later? If the Queen came to town, she could be put to good use opening another charity shop, in the new revamped charity shop arcade once known as the shopping centre, and people from Didcot might flood over buying the gear to look a little smarter than now, eh Lord P? I do hope we have a four day long Morris Dance intercounty dance-off up and down Ock Street with a 'stuff yer face with buns' eat-off to compliment it, that would be really good. Abberdon

11:37am Thu 10 May 12

Notopolotics says...

is this a joke?
is this a joke? Notopolotics

2:37pm Thu 10 May 12

Abingdon Rob says...

Abberdon says...
9:23am Thu 10 May 12
Delightful. But do any of our councillors have interests in local bakeries, which stand to make a fortune?

Is a local bakery making the buns? i looked at the town council website and couldnt find who was doing and what the different bakerys quoted for the buns.
Abberdon says... 9:23am Thu 10 May 12 Delightful. But do any of our councillors have interests in local bakeries, which stand to make a fortune? Is a local bakery making the buns? i looked at the town council website and couldnt find who was doing and what the different bakerys quoted for the buns. Abingdon Rob

5:11pm Thu 10 May 12

Abingdon Neil says...

@Abberdon - If only it was benefiting local bakers - I am sad to say I think they're getting the buns from Tesco!

@Iain - I will do my best - I've got a 7pm meeting in Botley but will pop in later if I've time. Is it at Tiffins? BTW - I am equally capable of disagreeing with those in my party too you know ;-)
@Abberdon - If only it was benefiting local bakers - I am sad to say I think they're getting the buns from Tesco! @Iain - I will do my best - I've got a 7pm meeting in Botley but will pop in later if I've time. Is it at Tiffins? BTW - I am equally capable of disagreeing with those in my party too you know ;-) Abingdon Neil

5:21pm Thu 10 May 12

Iain L says...

Hi Neil - yes probably tiffins although we sometimes change minds on tge night. Drop me a mail with your number and I'll text you location on the night.

Ps you're correct about tescos who are providing buns at a highly discounted rate as part of their community outreach programme - a step in the right direction at least although I think I share your general view about tescos (the expresses at least)
Hi Neil - yes probably tiffins although we sometimes change minds on tge night. Drop me a mail with your number and I'll text you location on the night. Ps you're correct about tescos who are providing buns at a highly discounted rate as part of their community outreach programme - a step in the right direction at least although I think I share your general view about tescos (the expresses at least) Iain L

6:04pm Thu 10 May 12

wizardofox2 says...

I can't believe this thread ! it started off as a string about a council spending an outrageous £50k on a jubilee bash? but its ended up with two nerdy councillors exchanging notes on how they're going to meet at Tiffins Indian restaurant (no doubt at the rate payers expence) it would serve them right if someone put their cozy meeting on facebook for all and sundry to turn up !
I can't believe this thread ! it started off as a string about a council spending an outrageous £50k on a jubilee bash? but its ended up with two nerdy councillors exchanging notes on how they're going to meet at Tiffins Indian restaurant (no doubt at the rate payers expence) it would serve them right if someone put their cozy meeting on facebook for all and sundry to turn up ! wizardofox2

6:24pm Thu 10 May 12

HPG says...

Our boss is not reconising this extra bank holiday, so ill be working
Our boss is not reconising this extra bank holiday, so ill be working HPG

7:21pm Thu 10 May 12

davidofabingdon says...

I think the comments by Sandy Lovatt about business sponsorship are unlikely to come to much with three weeks to go. Sponsorship would be here by now if it were coming in great quantities. With wristbands costing £2.50/£1 I do not think the revenue from these will be enormous either. The bulk of the cost will be borne by the Council Tax payer. That is fine if it gives a lasting legacy for the town, but the cost seems high to be for a long weekend of events, especially in these austere times.
I think the comments by Sandy Lovatt about business sponsorship are unlikely to come to much with three weeks to go. Sponsorship would be here by now if it were coming in great quantities. With wristbands costing £2.50/£1 I do not think the revenue from these will be enormous either. The bulk of the cost will be borne by the Council Tax payer. That is fine if it gives a lasting legacy for the town, but the cost seems high to be for a long weekend of events, especially in these austere times. davidofabingdon

11:50pm Thu 10 May 12

Abberdon says...

If TESCO, the wanna-be-a-monopoly-
grocer, wants to 'outreach' to the community, the one where it drives small business out of business by opening small TESCO shops on top of their giant ones, then maybe they should GIVE the buns away, not sell them at a 'discount'?

Just as well I mentioned the source of the buns, eh?

Maybe Abberdon's citizenry should drop in to Tiffins and lob a few buns at the table of councillors, to let them really know what they think of 50 thousand smackers going on an orgy of doubtful value?

If the Tories cannot see the problem with demanding Greek style austerity from we Brits at the same time as they fawn over a royal family by paying out scarce public funds to glorify their queen, then they deserve to be laughed at, and have buns thrown at them.
If TESCO, the wanna-be-a-monopoly- grocer, wants to 'outreach' to the community, the one where it drives small business out of business by opening small TESCO shops on top of their giant ones, then maybe they should GIVE the buns away, not sell them at a 'discount'? Just as well I mentioned the source of the buns, eh? Maybe Abberdon's citizenry should drop in to Tiffins and lob a few buns at the table of councillors, to let them really know what they think of 50 thousand smackers going on an orgy of doubtful value? If the Tories cannot see the problem with demanding Greek style austerity from we Brits at the same time as they fawn over a royal family by paying out scarce public funds to glorify their queen, then they deserve to be laughed at, and have buns thrown at them. Abberdon

8:24am Fri 11 May 12

Iain L says...

David - as always a fair comment - time will tell but I'm told sales and sponsorship activities are going well and all events will be well attended.

Wizard, Abberdon - I'm sure tiffins would welcome your custom. Would be happy to continue the debate in person but would be difficult to recognise you given that you choose to operate behind the cloak of anonymity. If you feel strongly about how things are done, as I do, you could always put yourself forward for election and try and do something about it rather than trolling from the sidelines.
David - as always a fair comment - time will tell but I'm told sales and sponsorship activities are going well and all events will be well attended. Wizard, Abberdon - I'm sure tiffins would welcome your custom. Would be happy to continue the debate in person but would be difficult to recognise you given that you choose to operate behind the cloak of anonymity. If you feel strongly about how things are done, as I do, you could always put yourself forward for election and try and do something about it rather than trolling from the sidelines. Iain L

8:24am Fri 11 May 12

Iain L says...

David - as always a fair comment - time will tell but I'm told sales and sponsorship activities are going well and all events will be well attended.

Wizard, Abberdon - I'm sure tiffins would welcome your custom. Would be happy to continue the debate in person but would be difficult to recognise you given that you choose to operate behind the cloak of anonymity. If you feel strongly about how things are done, as I do, you could always put yourself forward for election and try and do something about it rather than trolling from the sidelines.
David - as always a fair comment - time will tell but I'm told sales and sponsorship activities are going well and all events will be well attended. Wizard, Abberdon - I'm sure tiffins would welcome your custom. Would be happy to continue the debate in person but would be difficult to recognise you given that you choose to operate behind the cloak of anonymity. If you feel strongly about how things are done, as I do, you could always put yourself forward for election and try and do something about it rather than trolling from the sidelines. Iain L

8:26am Fri 11 May 12

Iain L says...

Apologies for double post - finger slipped
Apologies for double post - finger slipped Iain L

9:11am Fri 11 May 12

Abberdon says...

Iain L, indeed, just like the fingers-of-power that slipped through an outrageous impost on we poor simple folk in the town of Abberdon.

Tiffins are the innocents here comrade, I think the buns will be aimed at the elected, not the servant servers of the elected.

And when you come to accusations of trolling, that ratrher assumes that your posts are regarded as squeaky-clean by every reader here does it?

Did I read a comment on your ability to take-over this thread to organise your social life?

Does that show a total disregard for genuine readers and posters here?

David seeks a lasting ebenefit for the town- is that trolling too?

But of course, there will be a lasting benefit won't there?

Another set of fossilised buns in the town museum for our children and grand children to gaze in wonder at and say...

WOW! that bun cost 50k quid, but thankfully the Great Grocer Tesco supplied it for only 30k quid, that's really Community Outreach at its best!
Iain L, indeed, just like the fingers-of-power that slipped through an outrageous impost on we poor simple folk in the town of Abberdon. Tiffins are the innocents here comrade, I think the buns will be aimed at the elected, not the servant servers of the elected. And when you come to accusations of trolling, that ratrher assumes that your posts are regarded as squeaky-clean by every reader here does it? Did I read a comment on your ability to take-over this thread to organise your social life? Does that show a total disregard for genuine readers and posters here? David seeks a lasting ebenefit for the town- is that trolling too? But of course, there will be a lasting benefit won't there? Another set of fossilised buns in the town museum for our children and grand children to gaze in wonder at and say... WOW! that bun cost 50k quid, but thankfully the Great Grocer Tesco supplied it for only 30k quid, that's really Community Outreach at its best! Abberdon

9:39am Fri 11 May 12

Iain L says...

Certainly had not intended to suggest David was trolling, his comments are invariably positive about the town - apologies David if I gave that impression
Certainly had not intended to suggest David was trolling, his comments are invariably positive about the town - apologies David if I gave that impression Iain L

3:21pm Fri 11 May 12

Abingdon Neil says...

@wizardofox2 - 1) I'm not a councillor. 2) This is good a place as any to agree to go for a beer. 3) I'm sure Tiffins would welcome your custom. As well as doing great food they are in the Abingdon Loyalty Card scheme too. 4) Although I have my disagreements with Iain on some issues I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made.
@wizardofox2 - 1) I'm not a councillor. 2) This is good a place as any to agree to go for a beer. 3) I'm sure Tiffins would welcome your custom. As well as doing great food they are in the Abingdon Loyalty Card scheme too. 4) Although I have my disagreements with Iain on some issues I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made. Abingdon Neil

3:58pm Fri 11 May 12

davidofabingdon says...

I did not think you took my comments as trolling. believe me, when I DO decide to troll you will know about it ;-)
I did not think you took my comments as trolling. believe me, when I DO decide to troll you will know about it ;-) davidofabingdon

6:41pm Fri 11 May 12

Feelingsmatter says...

Abingdon Neil said; "Although I have my disagreements with Iain on some issues I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made."

Totally agree, although I don't feel it's appropriate to arrange a social get-together on a public forum. It's hardly setting a good example about online safety, plus, if you know each other why not directly email?


That aside, I am almost incandescent with rage at the waste of OUR money!! (Almost, because I save absolute incandescence for matters relating to the NHS). I do not choose to live under the ancient spell of a family born into great privilege and money, and when I think that the amount being squandered on this big party would keep Abingdon Alzheimer's Cub running for a whole YEAR I want to cordially invite the stuck-up fools who made this decision to meet me for a drink and a chat.

I would stand for election if I wasn't so busy raising my two boys with special needs without any financial or practical support.............
...
Abingdon Neil said; "Although I have my disagreements with Iain on some issues I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made." Totally agree, although I don't feel it's appropriate to arrange a social get-together on a public forum. It's hardly setting a good example about online safety, plus, if you know each other why not directly email? That aside, I am almost incandescent with rage at the waste of OUR money!! (Almost, because I save absolute incandescence for matters relating to the NHS). I do not choose to live under the ancient spell of a family born into great privilege and money, and when I think that the amount being squandered on this big party would keep Abingdon Alzheimer's Cub running for a whole YEAR I want to cordially invite the stuck-up fools who made this decision to meet me for a drink and a chat. I would stand for election if I wasn't so busy raising my two boys with special needs without any financial or practical support............. ... Feelingsmatter

8:16am Sat 12 May 12

wizardofox2 says...

"I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made." but Abingdon Neil you've just said you're not a councillor, doesn't that contradict somewhat? as for debate, i hardly think arranging ones social life on here counts as a debate !
"I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made." but Abingdon Neil you've just said you're not a councillor, doesn't that contradict somewhat? as for debate, i hardly think arranging ones social life on here counts as a debate ! wizardofox2

11:06am Sat 12 May 12

cynicality says...

Feelingsmatter wrote:
Abingdon Neil said; "Although I have my disagreements with Iain on some issues I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made."

Totally agree, although I don't feel it's appropriate to arrange a social get-together on a public forum. It's hardly setting a good example about online safety, plus, if you know each other why not directly email?


That aside, I am almost incandescent with rage at the waste of OUR money!! (Almost, because I save absolute incandescence for matters relating to the NHS). I do not choose to live under the ancient spell of a family born into great privilege and money, and when I think that the amount being squandered on this big party would keep Abingdon Alzheimer's Cub running for a whole YEAR I want to cordially invite the stuck-up fools who made this decision to meet me for a drink and a chat.

I would stand for election if I wasn't so busy raising my two boys with special needs without any financial or practical support.............

...
hear hear! Agree totally about using the money where it really matters - the old, and especially those who are mentally unwell, get a raw deal when it comes to charity because they're not 'tragic' 'cute' or anything else - just in need of good care!
[quote][p][bold]Feelingsmatter[/bold] wrote: Abingdon Neil said; "Although I have my disagreements with Iain on some issues I think it is good when councillors do engage in debate online about decisions they have made." Totally agree, although I don't feel it's appropriate to arrange a social get-together on a public forum. It's hardly setting a good example about online safety, plus, if you know each other why not directly email? That aside, I am almost incandescent with rage at the waste of OUR money!! (Almost, because I save absolute incandescence for matters relating to the NHS). I do not choose to live under the ancient spell of a family born into great privilege and money, and when I think that the amount being squandered on this big party would keep Abingdon Alzheimer's Cub running for a whole YEAR I want to cordially invite the stuck-up fools who made this decision to meet me for a drink and a chat. I would stand for election if I wasn't so busy raising my two boys with special needs without any financial or practical support............. ...[/p][/quote]hear hear! Agree totally about using the money where it really matters - the old, and especially those who are mentally unwell, get a raw deal when it comes to charity because they're not 'tragic' 'cute' or anything else - just in need of good care! cynicality

11:42am Sat 12 May 12

Abberdon says...

Well, the new council obviously think it is good enough for them to go to the marketplace and eat buns.

No doubt while they all slum it with champers and big fat steaks, telling themselves what a 'jolly good job we done' with the Queens bash.
Well, the new council obviously think it is good enough for them to go to the marketplace and eat buns. No doubt while they all slum it with champers and big fat steaks, telling themselves what a 'jolly good job we done' with the Queens bash. Abberdon

2:00pm Sat 12 May 12

orangefoot says...

What would everyone be saying if the Town Council had decided to ignore the Jubilee and do nothing?

I can't be sure but I imagine that there would be plenty of cries along the lines of 'even more cuts' and people asking where the money that has been earmarked for this would be spent instead.
What would everyone be saying if the Town Council had decided to ignore the Jubilee and do nothing? I can't be sure but I imagine that there would be plenty of cries along the lines of 'even more cuts' and people asking where the money that has been earmarked for this would be spent instead. orangefoot

9:05pm Sat 12 May 12

Abingdon Neil says...

@wizardofox2 - I am not a councillor but Iain L is, and I am glad he is willing to debate online.
@wizardofox2 - I am not a councillor but Iain L is, and I am glad he is willing to debate online. Abingdon Neil

9:18pm Sat 12 May 12

icecreamlady says...

I am incredulous! £50k on the Jubilee Celebrations is an outrageous and irresponsible waste of public money, particularly as the council is charging the public to attend these events, and not paying the acts that are performing! - are they making money they will distribute to the cash strapped local charities? (well we can dream cant we) I doubt it - I for one would love to see the balance sheet published in the Herald, what on earth are they spending the money on. And yes I agree with wizardfox, not really the forum for a private in public? political discussion
I am incredulous! £50k on the Jubilee Celebrations is an outrageous and irresponsible waste of public money, particularly as the council is charging the public to attend these events, and not paying the acts that are performing! - are they making money they will distribute to the cash strapped local charities? (well we can dream cant we) I doubt it - I for one would love to see the balance sheet published in the Herald, what on earth are they spending the money on. And yes I agree with wizardfox, not really the forum for a private in public? political discussion icecreamlady

12:31am Sun 13 May 12

Iain L says...

The budget is entirely public and in no way secret - if you wish to understand the detail please don't hesitate to pop into the council offices - this is not a secret activity

The total expenditure will be far closer to cllr lovatt's estimates than the budget which insides a large and prudent contingency.

The major items of expenditure are staffing of road closures etc, screen hire for the national concerts, street decorations and somoe fireworks.

You can of course take the headlines on face value if you prefer.
The budget is entirely public and in no way secret - if you wish to understand the detail please don't hesitate to pop into the council offices - this is not a secret activity The total expenditure will be far closer to cllr lovatt's estimates than the budget which insides a large and prudent contingency. The major items of expenditure are staffing of road closures etc, screen hire for the national concerts, street decorations and somoe fireworks. You can of course take the headlines on face value if you prefer. Iain L

1:01am Sun 13 May 12

DoctorBob says...

Not only do we have to pay to keep the Royal parasites in luxury we also have to pay to celebrate them still being alive!
Not only do we have to pay to keep the Royal parasites in luxury we also have to pay to celebrate them still being alive! DoctorBob

1:51am Sun 13 May 12

Abberdon says...

Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'.
Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'. Abberdon

10:49am Sun 13 May 12

steve1955 says...

Iead a comment from a councillor saying they get only £760 expences poor things why not do it for free after all they beg to get elected as for 50k its not their money so why would they give a toss if the want to spend that much dig into their own pockets
Iead a comment from a councillor saying they get only £760 expences poor things why not do it for free after all they beg to get elected as for 50k its not their money so why would they give a toss if the want to spend that much dig into their own pockets steve1955

10:28am Mon 14 May 12

Dr D Prest says...

I don’t know how many people are registered as unemployed in Abingdon at the moment, or how much it costs an employer to employ someone, but it seems to me that even £30,000 would have kept at least one person in a very welcome ‘Jubilee Job’ for a year.
I don’t know how many people are registered as unemployed in Abingdon at the moment, or how much it costs an employer to employ someone, but it seems to me that even £30,000 would have kept at least one person in a very welcome ‘Jubilee Job’ for a year. Dr D Prest

11:23am Mon 14 May 12

Abingdon Neil says...

Iain L - you mentioned earlier that the total does include staffing costs. If so that would surely be a very large item of expenditure? Several of the council's staff are spending considerable time on the preparations, aren't they?
Iain L - you mentioned earlier that the total does include staffing costs. If so that would surely be a very large item of expenditure? Several of the council's staff are spending considerable time on the preparations, aren't they? Abingdon Neil

11:32am Mon 14 May 12

DoctorBob says...

Abberdon wrote:
Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'.
That's some comparison you're attempting there.
[quote][p][bold]Abberdon[/bold] wrote: Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'.[/p][/quote]That's some comparison you're attempting there. DoctorBob

1:09pm Mon 14 May 12

Ellie the Bruce says...

Abberdon wrote:
Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'.
You mean...apart from the sanitation, medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, the fresh water system and public health, what have the Romans ever done for us ;-)
[quote][p][bold]Abberdon[/bold] wrote: Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'.[/p][/quote]You mean...apart from the sanitation, medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, the fresh water system and public health, what have the Romans ever done for us ;-) Ellie the Bruce

1:27pm Mon 14 May 12

steve1955 says...

Ellie the Bruce
But did the romans have so many levels of government national and local all with people on them taking money out of the public purse for their ego trips and wasting scarce funds on jollies not forgetting expenses after all they all beg to be elected ?
Ellie the Bruce But did the romans have so many levels of government national and local all with people on them taking money out of the public purse for their ego trips and wasting scarce funds on jollies not forgetting expenses after all they all beg to be elected ? steve1955

2:40pm Mon 14 May 12

colbart says...

Did I hear on the TV, that £500 is being paid on Buns!!!.
Did I hear on the TV, that £500 is being paid on Buns!!!. colbart

5:19pm Mon 14 May 12

Feelingsmatter says...

Iain L says...
12:31am Sun 13 May 12

"The budget is entirely public and in no way secret - if you wish to understand the detail please don't hesitate to pop into the council offices - this is not a secret activity

The total expenditure will be far closer to cllr lovatt's estimates than the budget which insides a large and prudent contingency.

You can of course take the headlines on face value if you prefer."

Bit of a snotty comment, if I may be so blunt. No one is criticising the transparency of the celebrations, we're just stunned by the waste of money!!

Could I ask you to clarify one of your points as I can't understand it; "The total expenditure will be far closer to cllr lovatt's estimates than the budget which insides a large and prudent contingency."
Iain L says... 12:31am Sun 13 May 12 "The budget is entirely public and in no way secret - if you wish to understand the detail please don't hesitate to pop into the council offices - this is not a secret activity The total expenditure will be far closer to cllr lovatt's estimates than the budget which insides a large and prudent contingency. You can of course take the headlines on face value if you prefer." Bit of a snotty comment, if I may be so blunt. No one is criticising the transparency of the celebrations, we're just stunned by the waste of money!! Could I ask you to clarify one of your points as I can't understand it; "The total expenditure will be far closer to cllr lovatt's estimates than the budget which insides a large and prudent contingency." Feelingsmatter

6:07pm Mon 14 May 12

Iain L says...

Sorry for snotty tone, not intentional, although as I've been called a cretin, a geek (which I concede is probably true), been accused of taking tax payer funded lunches (in fact I suspect I fund the tax payer far more than he funds me) and been threatened with a bun pelting on my night off you may understand my sensitivity :)

Regarding your query - I think the computer's autocorrect kicked in. It should say 'actual figure will be closer to the figure quoted by cllr Lovatt as the budget includes a large contingency for reasons of prudence' (or sonething like that anyway)
Sorry for snotty tone, not intentional, although as I've been called a cretin, a geek (which I concede is probably true), been accused of taking tax payer funded lunches (in fact I suspect I fund the tax payer far more than he funds me) and been threatened with a bun pelting on my night off you may understand my sensitivity :) Regarding your query - I think the computer's autocorrect kicked in. It should say 'actual figure will be closer to the figure quoted by cllr Lovatt as the budget includes a large contingency for reasons of prudence' (or sonething like that anyway) Iain L

10:04pm Mon 14 May 12

DoctorBob says...

Ellie the Bruce wrote:
Abberdon wrote:
Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'.
You mean...apart from the sanitation, medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, the fresh water system and public health, what have the Romans ever done for us ;-)
Comic verse aside I believe the poster was trying to equate the parasitic Royals with the Romans in terms of what they have done for us.
[quote][p][bold]Ellie the Bruce[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]Abberdon[/bold] wrote: Quite so Dr. Bob, after all 'what have the Roman's ever done for us?'.[/p][/quote]You mean...apart from the sanitation, medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, the fresh water system and public health, what have the Romans ever done for us ;-)[/p][/quote]Comic verse aside I believe the poster was trying to equate the parasitic Royals with the Romans in terms of what they have done for us. DoctorBob

12:04am Tue 15 May 12

Abberdon says...

Spot on Dr. Bob, it was also a 'joke', lost on some it seems, perhaps they didn't see the film, but, although I don't know you, I thought you at least would appreciate it, given the post of yours I was rsvp-ing to.

Of course, for the literal amongst we posters, the Romans did produce far more than the Royals ever have, here or in other nation-states, but isn't that also part of the original joke?

What next? Well if anyone sees our councillor blogger with a gourd in his hands, or holding a sandal, we know where the mob will go already.

Let's just hope no one makes any cracks about 'the bunmakers inheriting the Earth'.

We all know that is for the Greeks, and aren't they doing a good job of that right now?

So, if the buns are only costing 500quid, where is the other 49500 going?

It was almost more reassuring to think that the whole 50k quid was going on buns for the Massive Pelting in the market place. Now I really am upset at the cost!
Spot on Dr. Bob, it was also a 'joke', lost on some it seems, perhaps they didn't see the film, but, although I don't know you, I thought you at least would appreciate it, given the post of yours I was rsvp-ing to. Of course, for the literal amongst we posters, the Romans did produce far more than the Royals ever have, here or in other nation-states, but isn't that also part of the original joke? What next? Well if anyone sees our councillor blogger with a gourd in his hands, or holding a sandal, we know where the mob will go already. Let's just hope no one makes any cracks about 'the bunmakers inheriting the Earth'. We all know that is for the Greeks, and aren't they doing a good job of that right now? So, if the buns are only costing 500quid, where is the other 49500 going? It was almost more reassuring to think that the whole 50k quid was going on buns for the Massive Pelting in the market place. Now I really am upset at the cost! Abberdon

9:07am Tue 15 May 12

steve king says...

I've been watching this thread unfold and have had to laugh at some of the postings, but one thing is painfully obvious in all this is the lack of any research by the Town Council as to what the people of Abingdon actually want by way of celebrating this milestone, for instance it was only a few days ago that the T.C said only 30 table slots have been applied for, for the street party running the entire length of Ock St? now they have just delivered by hand a letter to just about every property in the Street advising them of the event, shouldn't they have done that first, then gauged by the response whether too hold the event or not? Then there's the £50k pot, sure all those who attend the bun throwing will have a good time, but couldn't Abingdon have had a more lasting/worthwhile tribute? like a Statue or piece of Art? just a thought.
I've been watching this thread unfold and have had to laugh at some of the postings, but one thing is painfully obvious in all this is the lack of any research by the Town Council as to what the people of Abingdon actually want by way of celebrating this milestone, for instance it was only a few days ago that the T.C said only 30 table slots have been applied for, for the street party running the entire length of Ock St? now they have just delivered by hand a letter to just about every property in the Street advising them of the event, shouldn't they have done that first, then gauged by the response whether too hold the event or not? Then there's the £50k pot, sure all those who attend the bun throwing will have a good time, but couldn't Abingdon have had a more lasting/worthwhile tribute? like a Statue or piece of Art? just a thought. steve king

9:18am Tue 15 May 12

Iain L says...

I'm not sure what you mean by slots but certainly lots of people are booked into the street party. Possibly you mean 30 groups but some of these are rather large, the street I live on has 150 people coming and I know Dalton barracks have booked for 250 seats for wives and children of our servicemen, and tgats just two groups I happen to know about. I think the event will be a big success.
I'm not sure what you mean by slots but certainly lots of people are booked into the street party. Possibly you mean 30 groups but some of these are rather large, the street I live on has 150 people coming and I know Dalton barracks have booked for 250 seats for wives and children of our servicemen, and tgats just two groups I happen to know about. I think the event will be a big success. Iain L

9:29am Tue 15 May 12

steve1955 says...

A lasting tribute? how about scrapping allowances and expenses for abingdon council we could have a vote on here?
A lasting tribute? how about scrapping allowances and expenses for abingdon council we could have a vote on here? steve1955

9:39am Tue 15 May 12

steve king says...

Only repeating what the TC stated a short while ago (in this very paper I think?) and I sincerely hope it's a success too, we booked our table over a month ago!
Only repeating what the TC stated a short while ago (in this very paper I think?) and I sincerely hope it's a success too, we booked our table over a month ago! steve king

10:29am Tue 15 May 12

GTS kiddy says...

How ridiculous, that money could keep 2 nurses or police men/women in a job for a year. What a waste!!!
How ridiculous, that money could keep 2 nurses or police men/women in a job for a year. What a waste!!! GTS kiddy

3:30pm Tue 15 May 12

Feelingsmatter says...

And that sums it up, GTS; in a time of austerity £50 is an obscene waste of money. If we want a party we can pay for our own, and if we want to watch TV coverage we can watch our own tvs. Why should I pay for a small minority to celebrate the jubilee?
And that sums it up, GTS; in a time of austerity £50 is an obscene waste of money. If we want a party we can pay for our own, and if we want to watch TV coverage we can watch our own tvs. Why should I pay for a small minority to celebrate the jubilee? Feelingsmatter

3:35pm Tue 15 May 12

steve1955 says...

No answers to my suggestion on scrapping allowances and expenses for councillors are you all in favour of these people being paid to spend YOUR MONEY in this fashion
No answers to my suggestion on scrapping allowances and expenses for councillors are you all in favour of these people being paid to spend YOUR MONEY in this fashion steve1955

5:33pm Tue 15 May 12

Feelingsmatter says...

I don't entirely understand the allowances Steve, and to be honest, I don't expect people to do this job for nothing. I DO, however, expect them to be considerate of the context before they splash out money on rubbish like a big old party.
I don't entirely understand the allowances Steve, and to be honest, I don't expect people to do this job for nothing. I DO, however, expect them to be considerate of the context before they splash out money on rubbish like a big old party. Feelingsmatter

2:29am Wed 16 May 12

Abberdon says...

A lasting tribute would be something like an eternal flame perhaps? So long as the Russian gas keeps flowing anyway.

So, with that in mind, what about a perpetual Morris dancer?

Day and night, 24/7, 365 days a year, tinkling bells, bashing sticks, drinking Abingdon Bridge all the while, and prancing from one end of Ock Street, around the Market Square and back again, starting and finishing each round at the White Horse?

THAT would put Abingdon-on-Thames on the map, bring tourists by the coachload, fame and fortune to the charity shop industry of Abingdon, and may even start a new line in replica Morris gear- who knows where such a forward thinking idea could take our moribund town?

As for paying councillors, let us use the Abingdon Charity Shop Scale as the relevant marker.

Count the ones we have now, make that the 100% level, and pay them more as the shops close, through lack of use, and less when more open up, due to poor economic conditions and the need for extra 'charity'.

BUT, let's not stop there, how about using this as the trial basis for a national MP and senior beaurocrat pay scale?

They all love measuring everything but their own performance, so this would be a world first.

What does our chatty councillor think?
A lasting tribute would be something like an eternal flame perhaps? So long as the Russian gas keeps flowing anyway. So, with that in mind, what about a perpetual Morris dancer? Day and night, 24/7, 365 days a year, tinkling bells, bashing sticks, drinking Abingdon Bridge all the while, and prancing from one end of Ock Street, around the Market Square and back again, starting and finishing each round at the White Horse? THAT would put Abingdon-on-Thames on the map, bring tourists by the coachload, fame and fortune to the charity shop industry of Abingdon, and may even start a new line in replica Morris gear- who knows where such a forward thinking idea could take our moribund town? As for paying councillors, let us use the Abingdon Charity Shop Scale as the relevant marker. Count the ones we have now, make that the 100% level, and pay them more as the shops close, through lack of use, and less when more open up, due to poor economic conditions and the need for extra 'charity'. BUT, let's not stop there, how about using this as the trial basis for a national MP and senior beaurocrat pay scale? They all love measuring everything but their own performance, so this would be a world first. What does our chatty councillor think? Abberdon

8:35am Wed 16 May 12

Iain L says...

Depends which of your ideas you mean Abberdon.

I'm not convinced about you perpetual Morris machine idea, although I guess Morris dancing is as good a tradition as any to recognise in a lasting memorial. I understand the two rival Morris troops are dancing together for the first time ever in a specially created dance at the jubilee celebrations which is quite nice (I had never realised how much politics there is in Morris dancing).

The article is slightly misleading on a permanent memorial in the it is £5k rather than £15k that was put aside in the budget (i dont think any decisions have been made on it yet) and the idea (not mine by the way) is that this should be used as seed funding for some sort of public subscription scheme, like happened for the Albert memorial for example, to create a permanent jubilee memorial, with a bandstand being the initial idea proposed.

On your point about performance related pay for councillors I probably agree in principle but think the reality for the town council is it would cost more to administer than the 21x£760 currently paid in allowances (in fact less as not all councillors claim the allowance).

In reality councillors (in non safe areas like abingdon anyway) get hired or fired every 4 years by the electorate who get to make their own judgement as to our performance.

On the serious point about allowances, my view is that we need to make it possible for people from a wide variety of backgrounds and circumstances be able to afford to become councillors. Regardless of what is often suggested in these threads, the reality is that most councillors are very conscientious and put in a lot of time often at the expense of time spent working which obviously has a financial impact on those of us who work.

Anyway - there's a slightly verbose answer for you - happy to discuss this or any of the issues hilighted in the thread in person if you're serious - I can be contacted via the council website.

Ps thanks for not pelting me with buns at my curry last night - tiffins was excellent as always.
Depends which of your ideas you mean Abberdon. I'm not convinced about you perpetual Morris machine idea, although I guess Morris dancing is as good a tradition as any to recognise in a lasting memorial. I understand the two rival Morris troops are dancing together for the first time ever in a specially created dance at the jubilee celebrations which is quite nice (I had never realised how much politics there is in Morris dancing). The article is slightly misleading on a permanent memorial in the it is £5k rather than £15k that was put aside in the budget (i dont think any decisions have been made on it yet) and the idea (not mine by the way) is that this should be used as seed funding for some sort of public subscription scheme, like happened for the Albert memorial for example, to create a permanent jubilee memorial, with a bandstand being the initial idea proposed. On your point about performance related pay for councillors I probably agree in principle but think the reality for the town council is it would cost more to administer than the 21x£760 currently paid in allowances (in fact less as not all councillors claim the allowance). In reality councillors (in non safe areas like abingdon anyway) get hired or fired every 4 years by the electorate who get to make their own judgement as to our performance. On the serious point about allowances, my view is that we need to make it possible for people from a wide variety of backgrounds and circumstances be able to afford to become councillors. Regardless of what is often suggested in these threads, the reality is that most councillors are very conscientious and put in a lot of time often at the expense of time spent working which obviously has a financial impact on those of us who work. Anyway - there's a slightly verbose answer for you - happy to discuss this or any of the issues hilighted in the thread in person if you're serious - I can be contacted via the council website. Ps thanks for not pelting me with buns at my curry last night - tiffins was excellent as always. Iain L

9:27am Wed 16 May 12

steve1955 says...

21 Councillors? times this by all the other town councils across england and how many do you get?strange how for only £760 a year they all beg to be elected can anyone tell me why as from comments i read on various forums and newspaper comments sections most people dont care for them can the councillor on here tell us how many local voters did not vote in last election ?
21 Councillors? times this by all the other town councils across england and how many do you get?strange how for only £760 a year they all beg to be elected can anyone tell me why as from comments i read on various forums and newspaper comments sections most people dont care for them can the councillor on here tell us how many local voters did not vote in last election ? steve1955

11:39am Wed 16 May 12

Iain L says...

I can only speak in regard to Abingdon Town Council i'm afraid Steve, it's up to other councils to make their own arrangements around allowances.

Turnout at last years local elections was around about 48% in Vale (not sure of exact figures for Abingdon but will be about that) which I agree is depressingly low. I fail to understand why people don't use a right so many of our forefathers fought for, and which people are still dying in order to gain in other countries.

In regard to why councillors put themselves forward, we all have different reasons, but I think none of us have become town councillors for the money and there is an element for all of us in wanting to help Abingdon become a better place. You may disagree with some or all of the things we do (we represent a whole town most of whom want slightly different things, often contradictory so are bound not to keep everyone happy) but I think we all work quite hard to try and do the things we each believe will best help the town.

In terms of why I personally put myself forward as a councillor, I can categorically say has nothing to do with money (it costs me money to be a councillor in lost income) and everything to do with being frustrated a lack of progress in creating town centre vitality. I decided to stand for office and try and influence things as a councillor rather than just moaning from the side. Most other councillors from across the parties will have similar stories.
I can only speak in regard to Abingdon Town Council i'm afraid Steve, it's up to other councils to make their own arrangements around allowances. Turnout at last years local elections was around about 48% in Vale (not sure of exact figures for Abingdon but will be about that) which I agree is depressingly low. I fail to understand why people don't use a right so many of our forefathers fought for, and which people are still dying in order to gain in other countries. In regard to why councillors put themselves forward, we all have different reasons, but I think none of us have become town councillors for the money and there is an element for all of us in wanting to help Abingdon become a better place. You may disagree with some or all of the things we do (we represent a whole town most of whom want slightly different things, often contradictory so are bound not to keep everyone happy) but I think we all work quite hard to try and do the things we each believe will best help the town. In terms of why I personally put myself forward as a councillor, I can categorically say has nothing to do with money (it costs me money to be a councillor in lost income) and everything to do with being frustrated a lack of progress in creating town centre vitality. I decided to stand for office and try and influence things as a councillor rather than just moaning from the side. Most other councillors from across the parties will have similar stories. Iain L

11:56am Wed 16 May 12

Abberdon says...

Couldn't find enough buns in time.
Couldn't find enough buns in time. Abberdon

1:52pm Thu 17 May 12

Abingdon Rob says...

Iain L, you mention that the jubilee budget is public but i still have not found it on the town council website. Please will you give a link to it.
It is a wind up about the buns being from tesco I hope. Someone told me they are baked specially by milletts farm. Who would get the club card points?
I was amused seeing the councilers arranging a night out - it made them seem more human
Iain L, you mention that the jubilee budget is public but i still have not found it on the town council website. Please will you give a link to it. It is a wind up about the buns being from tesco I hope. Someone told me they are baked specially by milletts farm. Who would get the club card points? I was amused seeing the councilers arranging a night out - it made them seem more human Abingdon Rob

10:39pm Tue 22 May 12

Iain L says...

Hi Rob

We are more or less human - honest!

To pick up your query on budget, the specific one for the jubilee isn't on website (although I think the overall council one is). If you drop tge council an email they will send you the jubilee one (they may need a day or so to turn this sort of request around). If you have any problem let me know (email details on council website) and I will get you a copy.
Hi Rob We are more or less human - honest! To pick up your query on budget, the specific one for the jubilee isn't on website (although I think the overall council one is). If you drop tge council an email they will send you the jubilee one (they may need a day or so to turn this sort of request around). If you have any problem let me know (email details on council website) and I will get you a copy. Iain L

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