AT the recent annual meeting of Kimpton Parish Council, Cllr Richard Hart was elected chairman, and Cllr Dario Leslie was elected vice chairman. Cllrs Marie-Anne Mackie, Steve Payne and Trevor Cotterill would continue to deal with planning matters.

Parish assembly: At the parish assembly the chairman presented the council's annual report. In response to the findings of the village questionnaire, the council's main objectives for 2008/9 were: improve communications, improve the condition of footpaths, investigate acceptable means of reducing traffic speeds and produce a village plan. The council would also look at ways of fostering community spirit through various social activities.

Steve Payne reported on behalf the Three Villages sports trust. The KTF football team was congratulated on winning the junior cup. The proposed 40-space car park would benefit users of the sports field as well as parents and visitors to Kimpton school.

Other topics discussed: Play area: Richard Hart had conducted regular inspections of the play area throughout the past year. A working party would be convened to deal with general maintenance, including repainting the roundabout and relaying some of the safety tiles beneath the swings.

Rights of way: Part of the Ox Drove had been cleared of vegetation and volunteers were called for to help with clearing the southern end. Arrangements had been made for footpaths 1 and 4 to be cleared of nettles and other growth. The council had written to the landowner about the enclosure of hedgerows and newly erected barbed wire fencing either side of the Cow Lane track.

Village plan: Two residents had volunteered to be involved and attendees at the assembly showed further interest. A working group would be set up.

Street names: Confusion had arisen over local street names and individual addresses. The council will consult local residents and seek advice from Test Valley Borough Council.

Broadband: Richard Hart had been in contact with BT about the poor broadband service in Kimpton. BT recognised the problem and were assessing and costing the work needed.

Next meeting: The next council meeting would be held on 24 June, at 7.30pm.