PARISH council: At the monthly meeting, the council considered the budget for the forthcoming year.

The intention is to maintain the parish council element of any council tax increases at a level below inflation.

However, the council is giving serious consideration to extra maintenance around the parish, with particular attention to landscaping, as this presents an ongoing problem.

Thoughts were also given to enhancements at the Tollhouse Meadow skatepark, and discussions are to take place with borough council officers.

Agreement was reached that a parish noticeboard should be located in the North Binfields development, in the general area of the Elvetham Rise play park.

SHOEBOX collection at Christ Church: The time of year has come around again when the church collects shoeboxes filled with small gifts to send to needy children in eastern Europe at Christmas.

It is supporting a charity called Mustard Seed Relief Mission and is asking for any of the following: empty shoeboxes (wrapped or unwrapped with Christmas wrap, with the lid wrapped separately), toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, flannels, deodorant and so on), stationery, small games, wrapped sweets and small soft toys.

It is also sending hats, gloves and scarves. Good-quality second-hand items are welcome.

The Shoebox Roadshow and Christingle Service will be on Sunday, November 26, so donations are required on that day or before.