Present
Andrew Brennand (Chair), Chris Johnston, Dave Brookes, Hilary Short, Ian Procter, Jane Parker, Mark Tanner, Mick Short, Sharon Diffenthal, Sue Pope.
1. Apologies
- Ian Diffenthal
2. Minutes from the last meeting
- These were agreed.
3. Matters Arising
- LGGS and Local Nature Reserve status in the hands of our solicitor – no update.
4. Treasurer’s Report
Bank balance
| Date | 16/6/26 | 30/4/26 |
| Coop | 30,738 | 40,946 |
| Skipton | 120,000 | 120,000 |
| Total | 150,738 | 160,946 |
This includes the Burtonwood legacy of £54,760 received in 2023.
Funds
Restricted
Lottery funding £10,996 (Lucy Brook)
Total: £10,996
General
£ 139,742
Balance
£ 150,738
Significant Expenditure
Cycle Hub £8922 (£7388 from restricted funds)
Insurance premium £2064
Significant Income
Donations £462 (includes cake sake £192)
5. FFOG
- Lime tree in Pony Wood has a rotten stem and a large bough has broken off and is lying on the fence. Ian P will liaise with Wednesday volunteers
- Abandoned tent is near the Pony Wood notice board awaiting removal
- Gate to Cromwell Road should be kept open but the position of the hook on the wooden fence doesn’t make that possible – Ian P to coordinate with volunteers
- Chris J reported seven species of Warblers and Reed Bunting on the reserve
6. Fairfield Respect Statement
- Thanks to all who provided very helpful feedback. The trustees will prepare a package of linked resources for release as we become a CIO.
7. Playground
- There was no discussion of playground matters and all items were deferred until July’s meeting.
8. The Triangle
- Summer fair on Saturday 25 July has been proposed.
9. Website, Facebook, Instagram and Newsletter
- No report
10. Education
- Monday 15 June visit by Lancaster Cathedral Primary School was successful.
11. Fundraising update
- Footpath repairs – our bid to LEF was unsuccessful. We are extremely grateful to Sue Holden for all her work.
12. Events
- 30 years of the Fairfield Association – Adrienne and Andrew have scheduled about 10 interviews with volunteers
- Apple Day – we are still awaiting details. A volunteer to organise is not finalised so neither is a date.
13. AOB
- Royal Entomological Society’s Insect Week 2026, Williamson Park and the Mini Zoo are hosting a series of public engagement activities celebrating insects, wildlife and conservation in June. To launch the week, and celebrate the re-opening of the Mini Zoo, there is a free Conservation & Wildlife Day at the Ashton Memorial on Sunday 21 June. They are inviting groups to host a stand within the Memorial to showcase their work. Too short notice so we can’t do anything.
14. Date of next meeting
- The next meeting will take place at 7:30 pm on Tuesday 21 July 2026 at the Tite & Locke.