Parish

Civil Parish Councils

Were formed in England under the reforming Local Government Act 1894 to take over local oversight of civic duties in rural towns and villages.

A parish council is an elected civil local authority found in England who are the first tier of local government and are responsible for areas known as civil parishes.

Parish councils are made up of unpaid councillors who are elected to serve for four years and their activities fall into three main categories: representing the local community, delivering services to meet local needs, and improving quality of life and community well-being.

Click here for further information on the Quarnford Parish Council.

Ecclesiastical Parishes

Originated in the Medieval period, when the tithe or teind (a proportion of the annual produce or income) was paid by the parish inhabitants to support the Church. These units were distinguished from the Civil Parishes after 1597 with the passing of the first Poor Relief Act.

Click here for further information on St Pauls Church.