At our last Annual General Meeting , we were pleased to welcome our new MP Mr Michael Gove. He gave a very interesting talk on how he sees his role as our representative, which can be condensed into three letters, A,B,C: A as an Advocate to represent constituents, B as a Bridge builder between various political parties and C as a Champion. As Shadow Housing Minister he would like to end insensitive development in our area but unfortunately SEERA, under the direction of the office of the Deputy Prime Minister dictates how many houses we should have. The environment is precious and needs to be protected but the meeting agreed that there should be some new building especially new homes that local people can afford. The meeting was lively with a number of important questions raised by members. Angela O’Connell sought our MP’s help in securing public access to the Hatches. She had done a lot of research and canvassed the public but was meeting opposition from Cemex, the owners. It is believed that Deepcut Barracks will be sold for housing at some point. The meeting agreed that building on the existing “Footprint” not covering the whole site, would be acceptable, especially if the Special Protection Area (SPA) is properly protected. Michael Gove is writing to the owners of Rail Track regarding the rusting and unsightly yellow crash barriers beside the bridge over the railway. The Colford Bridge Road vehicle activated sign is broken. The new train horns are excessively noisy. Again our MP said he would investigate. Fraser Rowbothem talked of his aim of getting 3 defibrillators, one for each of our villages. ( For more info about how the Responder Scheme is progressing please visit www.dettingen.co.uk/defib ) There were requests for traffic claming in Deepcut Bridge Road, Mytchett Road and Lake and Wharf Roads.

TAG lost their application to double the number of weekend flights from Farnborough Airport, but are now appealing to the Planning Inspectorate. Many of our members are against this increase and the effect it will have on the enjoyment of our homes and gardens at weekends. If you are against the proposals by TAG you must write to the planning Inspector by 9th November 2006 quoting reference APP/P1750/A/06/2024640/NEW and remember to include the word OBJECT. More information can be found on RBC’s web site at www.rushmoor.gov.uk .

In Memoriam The society brings the sad news that John West of Mytchett Road has died. John was a wonderful man whose selfless contribution to our community was immeasurable; he will be sadly missed by all.