A standing-room-only crowd gathered at the Community Hall on Thursday evening for a public meeting convened by the Parish Council on the subject of 'newcomers, persons resident less than ten years, and other matters'.

Mrs Esmé Threadgold, 78, opened proceedings with a short statement to the effect that 'a village is not a hotel'. She received warm applause from the older portion of the room.

Mr Yves Galtier, the proprietor of the High Street cafe and a resident of nine years and eleven months, attempted to respond. His remarks, which began calmly, were interrupted three times by Mrs Threadgold's husband Cyril, who appeared to be wearing a small but determined rosette.

The Chair, Mr Lethbridge, ruled that further discussion be deferred to a sub-committee. A sub-committee was duly formed. Its first sitting will be in October.

Tea was served. Three Madeira cakes were consumed. One was wrapped in cling film and removed from the premises by a person who declined to be identified.