Hi Folks

Here we are then, with Christmas on the doorstep, the decorations going up and lights being switched on in towns and cities around the world and very soon the end of our new century's first year and the welcoming in of the second.

Now what will the panic be for the end of this year I wonder? Remember how we all thought it was going to be the end of the world as we were going to enter 2001 because of that Ol digit that was going to affect all computer technology and the world would stop working. But what happened? Nothing. I wonder if our ancestors of 1900 had any similar anxious moments. Never mind.

Well, it's Wednesday evening, cold and rainy and while I'm sat here writing this news for you, Joan has got the printer going at full throttle in the hope to get the Coulby News out to you all nice and early, so I guess I better type a bit faster before the horns start to appear from her head. So what's happening in Coulby Newham this time?.... I anticipate that Sunnyside School is back on track and children from Beverley School are in and settling down. I imagine the workmen are tidying up those little jobs that we always seem to find.

The new Safeway Shopping Centre development is still ongoing. Not sure when they plan to start, but I'm sure we'll get to know soon. The fortnightly paper recycling collection has now started, so if you want to help save the world put your papers in the blue bag and put this out on the day of collection. One good thing about this scheme is that hopefully more people will recycle their paper. The most annoying thing that I have noticed is that occasionally some bags are not collected on the day and paper begins to blow all over the place, and why don't they collect cardboard? By the way, if you haven't got a blue bag, put your papers out in a plastic bag, they will still take it and leave you a blue bag. The wheelie bins are still in order for our area for next year and I suppose everyone will get one whether we like it or not.

Sorry about the cancellations of some Community Council meetings lately. Apologies to al1 who turned up for meetings. Our next and last Community Council meeting for the end of this year will definitely take place on 3 December at Langdon Square Community Centre at 7 pm. We shall be discussing issues on the proposed City Academy (to replace Coulby Newham School), Barriers for the Birches, Planning Issues, and a Council Report from Councilor Paul Thompson, and any other business. Please come along.

The 'Healthy Living in Coulby Newham,' open day at Langdon Square Community Centre was a huge success. Thanks to the Mayor and Mayoress, our special guests for attending, and thank you to all who turned out for the occasion and also had a go on the raffle. A total of £50 was raised for the Mayor's charities. A pat on the back once again to Joan and myself and also Mr. Peter Thomas for organising the day and also to our participants and helpers. Thanks also to the management and staff of Langdon Square Community Centre for their support on the day,

Well, that's it for now folks. Have a very happy Christmas and look forward to seeing you and writing to you next year.

Best wishes GEOFF WISHART (SEC)