A project which aims to shape a rural community for future generations has met with apathy, says a group.

Last year 1,045 questionnaires were posted to homes in Chiseldon and nearby villages asking for ideas for improvements.

But only one in four completed the forms, which were drawn up the Vital Villages Steering Group.

Now disappointed parish councillor David Thomas, a member of the seven-strong group, fears for the future of the parish, which includes Badbury, Hodson, Draycot Foliat and Coate.

He said: "The apathy has been astonishing. I have been living in Chiseldon for 18 years and there have been a lot of changes and not for the better.

"In the time I have been here, three or four shops have been forced to close.

"People are no longer supporting their local store or butcher as they go to supermarkets instead.

"Now we are down to the few hardcore villagers who want to preserve the village way of life."

The questionnaires stem from a scheme by the Countryside Agency in 2002 to breathe life back into rural communities.

Parish councils were invited to apply for grants to find out what people wanted. Chiseldon received £2,500.

As a result of a public meeting attended by 90 people, six groups were formed to concentrate on areas, including the environment, recreation and crime.

Collectively, the groups have 32 members. A plan for the future of the parish is now being drawn up.

Coun Thomas blames villagers who commute to London. He said: "They use Chiseldon as a bed. They get home late and fail to get involved in the village. The community spirit is being diluted."

But Dr Chris Barry, of the Ridgeway View Family Practice, is confident villagers will be counted when it matters.

He said: "Community spirit shows itself when there is a perceived threat. A few years ago there was talk that BSE-infected meat would travel through the village and people united against it.

"The fact we received few replies shows the village is not lacking anything in the way of amenities."

Kevin Shoesmith