The Annual Parish Meeting: A Guide for Residents

What is the Annual Parish Meeting? 

By law, every Parish in England must hold this meeting between 1st March and 1st June. It is not a formal Council meeting; it is a meeting for the residents (electors) of Bilbrook to hear what the Council has achieved and to raise any local issues.

Who can attend and speak? 

Anyone is welcome to attend. However, only registered electors of Bilbrook Parish are entitled to speak, ask questions, or vote on any local resolutions.

What happens at the meeting?

• Reports: The Chair provides an update on the Council’s work over the past year.

• Community Updates: Local clubs, societies, and grant recipients often give short presentations on their activities.

• Open Forum: This is your opportunity to make suggestions, ask questions of the Council, or discuss anything relevant to the village.

Who chairs the meeting?

The Chair of the Parish Council (or Vice-Chair) presides. Councillors attend primarily to listen to the views of the community, though they may also participate as electors themselves.

Are records kept?

Yes, the Clerk takes minutes which are formally approved at the following year’s Annual Parish Meeting.