The February meeting in the lesser Town Hall had a fairly low turnout of members with a list of apologies mainly due to Holidays. Three visitors attended and Constable Willie Davy introduced Constable Brian Love as the new community officer. Councillor McDill was present. January minutes were read and adopted on motion of Reid Ross seconded by Myra Lyons. The following are extracts from the approved January minutes.

P.C. Angela Muirhead gave the Police report stating that in December 24 crimes had been reported 11 of which had been reported. The main crimes were vandalism (5). In January 11 crimes had been reported 5 of which had been detected. Vandalism again topped the list (4). The Chairman issued a Crime Prevention Panel questionnaire to all members to complete.

A list of correspondence was circulated. Councillor McDill reported the decision on the distribution of funds from Scottish Power had still to be made at an E.A.C. Cabinet meeting. The Council voiced strong feelings that the delay continued yet again.

There was some good news and Councillor McDill stated that the 10 year period for applications for community funding for eligible areas started in January 2010 and not before. Bids showing a carbon footprint gain would receive priority. The Morton Park would benefit from a substantial sum set aside for Park improvements and a list of suggested improvements was circulated.

Councillor McDill concluded his report stating that there were to be savage cuts in E.A.C. spending over the next few years.

Les Pittams reported for the Darvel Improvement Group that extra litter bins are being sought for Morton Park. Costs of Christmas Lights are being sought and estimates for the refurbishing of Hastings Square. Hanging baskets will be ordered and new tubs will be acquired. The entertainment committee are to hold a meeting to arrange the Easter egg hunt for Sunday April 11 and the open air cafe for Saturday June 5.

The annual Town Clean will be on Sunday April 18. Frank Donnelly for the Heritage group reported there had been no progress in planning the Irvine valley Heritage Trail.

A memorial plaque had been proposed by Peter Orr taking the form of a map of Darvel showing the location of each of the 21 lace firms that existed. Gala Day was raised and the opportunity of raising funds with a bag-packing day in a supermarket. On-going Gala meetings would progress this and other ideas to help support the gala.