Parish councils, the lowest tier of civil government, came into being at the end of the nineteenth century.  Their powers are defined and no expenditure can be made by a council except in accordance with those powers.  A parish  council can be thought of as the 'eyes, ears and voice' of its local community, relaying their opinions and views to higher levels of government.  Parish councils have tax raising powers and can make byelaws to improve the governance of their areas.  They exist to discuss community affairs and exercise the powers bestowed on them.  The council itself is made up of councillors who are elected by local residents.

Click here to visit Helmdon Parish Council's web site.

Click here to read the History of Helmdon Parish Council