Links to community pages
- Westwood Parish Rooms
- News from the Church Wardens
- Westwood Neighbourhood Plan
- St Mary's Church Westwood *
- St Mary's Church Westwood News
- Westwood WI
- Westwood Mothers Union
- Freshford &district Horticultural Society inc Westwood
- Freshford &district Historical Society inc Westwood
- Westwood Bell Ringers
- Westwood Road Safety & Community Speed Watch Update
- Valley Parishes Alliance *
- Westwood Nursery School *
- Westwood with Iford Primary School *
- Westwood Neighbourhood Watch
- Westwood Village Flower Show
- Bradford on Avon Museum Westwood*
- Westwood Football Club
* External web site
Local News
Westwood Bells
Westwood bells have been ringing out for forty years now. The tower has had its ups and downs, but currently there is a stable band of ringers who are doing well. Not only can we cover Sunday services, but we are also winning competitions.
BUT we do need new blood from the village, so if you are a lapsed or would-be ringer, we’d love to see you. Practice is 7.30 to 9 pm on Thursdays, and you will be welcome. We are hoping to have an Open Tower at the fete on July 13th, so see you there if you can’t make a Thursday.
All enquiries to Sue Lindsey 01225 863503 or westwood@sdgr.org.uk
Article published: 29 Jul 2019
Westwood Football Club update
The season has now finished and the players can take a well deserved rest knowing they came a credible 7th in the Bath Sunday League, and who knows what they would have achieved had some of their key players avoided injury and other commitments, but the management team can now look forward to planning for next season.
Article published: 27 May 2019
Westwood Football Club update
A couple
of spirited performances from the boys saw them pick up valuable points which
currently sees them in 5th position in the Bath and District Sunday league ( as
from 8th March), and with only a few games remaining it will be interesting to
see in what position they will finally sit.
Article published: 24 Mar 2019
Services: for recycling visit Wiltshire Councty Council: Recycling and waste collection
News from 15th Bath (Freshford) Scouts
The 15th Bath (Freshford) Scouts group was re-launched after a long absence three years ago, in part due to a national initiative to launch new scout groups. We have grown rapidly and are thriving at each level: Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. There are even waiting lists now for the Beavers and Cubs!
With our expanding numbers, we are becoming more ambitious about the experiences we want to offer. We plan to run a full summer camp in 2020 - the highlight of any scouting year - to put into practice many of the skills the youngsters are learning on Thursday evenings.
To do even more, we require volunteers and funds! We welcome volunteers with a bit of time and energy to spare. You might have an interesting skill to teach one evening, or be keen to help supervise groups as they undertake a variety tasks each week. It’s a fun way to connect with young people and to give back to the community.
We also welcome donations, large or small. We have very limited stores and would love to be more self-sufficient, particularly for our forthcoming camp.
Thanks to the very generous grant made by FLiSCA (Freshford and Limpley Stoke Community Association) last month, we are able to buy two patrol tents and a bespoke unit flag. We are incredibly grateful for this award, and really look forward to embarking on our first expedition under canvas and to flying our flag. These community grants are generated from profits made in Freshford’s Galleries shop and cafe. So anybody spending money there has helped us, indirectly. Thank you all and please continue to shop there!
If you would like to volunteer your time, offer a donation or enquire about membership for 6-14-year olds, please contact Sam Lascelles: sam.lascelles@gmail.com
Article published: 23 Nov 2019
Thank you from Westwood Scarecrows
Please can we say a huge thank you to everyone who supported the Numbers scarecrow trail - our wonderful scarecrow makers, everyone who baked cakes and sold maps, and all of you who came along to the trail and to our BBQ?
We raised £2,560 which will be split equally between Westwood School and Westwood Nursery - it’s a fantastic amount to be able to buy new equipment and resources for our local children.
Many thanks also to Westwood Shop, The New Inn, Iford Manor, The Parish Rooms, Number 10 Tea Gardens and the Social Club who all supported us by selling maps and providing prizes and parking - we are really grateful.
If you would like to know the answers, you can find them now at https://www.westwoodnursery.org/scarecrow-trail-2019.html
Thanks again and look forward to next year!
Lilly, Bryony, Helen, Jo, Vicky, Rachel & Kay
The Scarecrow Group
Article published: 29 Sep 2019
News from 15th Bath (Freshford) Scouts
With an exciting programme ahead, we’re on the lookout for some teen/adult support to help our beavers, cubs and scouts get the most out of scouting. You don’t need to have prior scouting experience, but we do ask for a good sense of fun and plenty of energy!
We welcome adults of any age, but this may appeal in particular to youngsters looking to boost their CV, gain some community experience or work towards their DofE award.
We’re also keen to appoint a Quartermaster to take care of our stores. It’s not an onerous task, but may be rewarding for anyone with a little time to spare.
Yours in scouting,
Sam Lascelles
sam.lascelles@gmail.com
Article published: 29 Sep 2019
Westwood Annual Flower and Vegetable Show 2019
Monday 26th August 2019
Hopefully by now all you gardeners, crafters and bakers are gearing up for this years show. Fingers crossed for fine weather and a bumper number of entries.Local Author, Caroline Kington has very kindly agreed to present the prizes. Caroline has written a number of books following a light hearted look at village life.
We will have two new attractions this year
A Dog Show. Entries can be made on the day and will include Waggiest Tail and other fun categories. and a four egg filled omelette making competition.
Entry will be limited to 12 competitors ……applications to be sent to westwoodshow@hotmail.co.uk A draw will take place a week before the show and successful applicants will have their place confirmed by email. Competitors will need to supply their own ingredients and utensils.
Full details for both these events will be available on Posters around the village and on the Westwood Parish Web Site www.westwoodparish.co.uk
It is not too late to help with the preparation. Newcomers are most welcome.
Article published: 29 Jul 2019
News from 15th Bath (Freshford) Scouts
Ask any cub or scout what the highlight of their year was and many, without hesitating, will say it was the camp. Sleeping outside, learning new skills and adventuring after dark are just some of the reasons they will give.
Our cubs and scouts were delighted by the opportunity to camp in the marquee following last month’s Hinton Charterhouse fete. They spent the evening learning how to spot wildlife, setting camera traps and using bat detectors. They might have been just down the road but, in terms of experience, they were many miles away!
For more information about joining the beavers/cubs/scouts or for volunteering to help the group, please email sam.lascelles@gmail.com
Article published: 29 Jul 2019
Westwood Flower and Vegetable Show
Monday 26th August 2.30pm
Summer is fast approaching and hopefully your gardens are starting to fill with lots of lovely produce. Remember to keep your best for the show.
Local author, Caroline Kington, has kindly agreed to present the prizes this year. Caroline has published a number of novels set in the countryside featuring village life and relationships.
Schedules will be delivered to all homes in Westwood towards the end of May but can also be found on the Westwood Web Events page Events
If you feel you would like to help you would be most welcome. We need help with site set up and take down, stewards, manning stalls and making cakes (costs can be reimbursed). Please contact Wendy Packer on 01225 852580.
We look forward to seeing you on the day.
Article published: 06 Jun 2019
Fairtrade Bring-&-Buy morning
Article published: 24 Mar 2019
Westwood Annual Parish Meeting
Wednesday May 8th at 7.30 in the Parish Room.
Doors open at 7pm. Refreshments available
All villagers from Westwood, Iford and Avoncliff are invited to attend the Annual Parish Meeting to exchange views and any concerns about things happening in the parish.
There will be a report on the work of your Parish Council during the year, information on the Neighbourhood Plan and a representative from the Woodland Trust speaking about their plans for Avoncliff Wood.
Article published: 24 Mar 2019
Don’t forget! Westwood Scarecrow Trail… Maps on sale throughout May half term Saturday 25 May to Sunday 2 June 2019 from Westwood Shop. The trail is a great fun outdoor activity for all ages £3.50 per map and raises much-needed funds for our village school and nursery.
Join us for a scarecrow barbeque on the 1st day of the trail…
Saturday 25 May in Westwood Park – we will be serving at lunchtime and tea time – visit our website below for exact timings.
For more info … visit www.westwoodnursery.org/scarecrow-trail or email westwoodscarecrows@yahoo.co.uk. Like us on facebook (@westwoodscarecrowtrail) or follow us on Twitter (@wwoodscarecrow) to keep up with all the latest scarecrow news. Let’s make it our best year ever! Thank you for your help and support.
Article published: 24 Mar 2019
The 15th Bath (Freshford) Scouts need you!
Are you a parent, grandparent, former scout, or want to give back to the local community? We need enthusiastic volunteers for the following posts:
Camp committee members
We would like to establish a committee of volunteers who can spare some time over the next few months to plan a local weekend cubs camp. You’ll get to come camping too!
Beaver Leader
Our wonderful Beaver Colony Leader is stepping down, so we need a new leader. We provide training, help and flexible rotas we just need a willing volunteer to continue the success of this thriving colony.
Treasurer
We are also looking for a successor to our current Group Treasurer. The role involves repaying leaders for expenses incurred and an annual audit of accounts. It can all be done online in the comfort of your home! No financial experience is necessary.
We’ve built up a fantastic group of beavers, cubs and scouts, and we’re proud to provide our local young people with the opportunities scouting offers. But we rely on the generosity of volunteers to keep going. If you can help, please get in touch with our Group Scout Leader Sam Lascelles (sam.lascelles@gmail.com).
Article published: 16 Feb 2019
Neighbourhood Plan Update and Questionnaire
The creation of a Neighbourhood Plan (NP) for the Parish was initiated by Westwood Parish Council which delegated the process of drafting a plan to the Parishioners of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group (NPSG).
Westwood Parish Council (WPC) would like to thank the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group (NPSG) and other members of the community that have contributed to the creation of the Neighbourhood Plan. It is an impressive document and, in excess of one hundred pages and containing some exciting ideas for the Parish - WPC would like to keep as much of this good work as possible and plans to publish a draft soon.
Please continue to read this update from the link on the left hand column and note that the questionnaire which was delivered with the Westwood Update needs to be handed in to the Parish Room.
Article published: 31 Jan 2019
We asked for BALSAM to BE GONE and it was done!
BALSAM BE GONE thanks our local communities for the help given on three Sundays in June to control the destructive Himalayan Balsam on the banks of the rivers Avon and Frome.
Himalayan Balsam is a pernicious alien plant that has invaded the paths and banks of our local rivers. We found it was particularly prevalent where the ground had been disturbed laying the new path between Tess’ gate and Westwood, and around willow trees on the banks of both rivers. However, the heroic effort of the Balsam Begonners has put paid to its spread, and one person in particular (you know who you are!) went beyond the call of duty, turning up on all three Sundays and suffering stings from nettles and bees in their fearless quest to destroy the weed. We extend a special thanks to this intrepid Begonner, and to everyone else for their help and support. BUT … a few plants may have escaped; so when you’re walking along the banks of the rivers please continue to pull them out!
Thanks to FLiSCA, FLEWG, The Inn at Freshford and The Cross Guns for their support.
Article published: 29 Jul 2018
Westwood Skittle League
We are looking for 2 teams to join the league for the winter season which commences late September. A team consists of 6 players, all male or all female. For further information please telephone 01225 938330. Margaret
Article published: 23 May 2018
Remembrance Sunday 11th. Nov. 2018
We are hoping to display a cascade of poppies in church. Please could you help by making red poppies with black centres in any medium between 2”-5” knitted, crochet, embroidered, tapestry, paper, card, etc. To be delivered to me before the 28th. October. If you would like to remember a particular person involved with the war-forces, land army, munitions, etc. please write their name on paper and attach to the reverse. Contact me about anything. I have knitting and crochet patterns from the internet.
Get creative, good luck and thank you. Mary Needham 38 The Pastures
Proceeds
of Jumble Sale A jumble sale was held at Westwood social club on 23rd April
in memory of Josh Deakin who sadly passed away aged 26.The proceeds of
£923.50 went to Cardiomyopathy UK.
Many thanks Tracey
Article published: 23 May 2018
Westwood Church Summer Fete Saturday 14 July 2018, 2-4.30pm
I will again be running our Church Fete in July which will be held in Westwood Manor grounds by kind permission of Emily and Jonathen Aziz.
Contributions to stalls which include Tombola, Plants Cakes, Books, White Elephant, Raffle or anyone who would be interested in helping would all be gratefully accepted.
For further information please contact me Lesley Chalmers 866734
Article published: 26 Mar 2018
Westwood Park
It is generally in good condition for this time of year. Near the light in the middle of the park is where one of the dead trees was located and the stump had been ‘ground out’. An enterprising person, presumably a child, had created a mini bike-jump there with a “ramp” and a “ditch”. It could have caused the unwary to trip and fall in the hole so we have filled it in.
The only area needing serious attention is a group of three conifers along the eastern edge of the park. Over the years they have been overwhelmed by thorn bushes which have grown up inside and now, in places, cascade out from high up. The stems can be seen but are hard to reach. We have a long extension pole with an end that can take a cutter or a saw. We believe we could deal with the problem bit by bit over the year and restore the trees to their original condition.
Play Area. Although it is basically safe and sound, it is old (and old fashioned) and it would be a good idea if we consulted experts about what we might do in the future. The PC has already earmarked £10k for the play area for this coming year (2018/19) although the total cost of a replacement is not known. This gives us breathing space to find out (1) what people want, (2) what is on offer, and (3) what the PC can afford or wants to spend.
Paul Philips and Alan Wheals (Westwood PC) Monday, 08 January 2018
Article published: 24 Jan 2018
Follow the Star Nativity Set Exhibition
15th And 16th December St Mary the Virgin Westwood
Last year we were wondering if a collection of nativity sets would interest people and (if the feedback we got is anything to go by), the answer was ‘yes’.It was so interesting that a little village like Westwood could produce such a diverse international collection of nativity sets.
Having looked at or heard about the exhibition last year, did you think - ‘I have a set in the attic’ ‘I know someone who has an interesting set’?
Little/big/old/modern/traditional/perfect/damaged - do please consider lending it to us for our second nativity fest - you will have it back in time for Christmas
This year we hope to fill the church an even more eclectic collection of nativity sets and we now have the lovely Parish Rooms and will offer tea, coffee, warm mulled winter berries, minced pies and cake galore. We are also offering activities in the Parish Rooms - willow wreath making, fuzzy felt, colouring and of course a warm welcome.
If YOU have a nativity set you could lend to us for the two days, you can contact Jenny Maggs (866932)) Mary Needham (866322) Annie Slade (07834 636874) or just bring down your nativity set on Thursday 14th December.
(And finally, it would be great if you could jot down something about your set -
last year there was a real interest to know a little about where they came,
from how old they were - we’ll then be able to type up little info cards.)
Article published: 20 Nov 2017
Westwood Stores Steering Group Update November 1st
Thank you to the Westwood residents who attended the first meeting of the Westwood Stores Steering Group on September 27th 2016. The purpose of the steering group is to assist the Westwood Parish council by investigating the possibility of taking over the running of the Westwood Stores and Post Office as a community venture
Members of the Group knocked on the doors of as many homes in the village as possible during the first 2 weeks of October 2016 in order the gauge the potential level of support for a community-led shop and Post Office. They managed to obtain responses from187 households a health return representing 37% of the approximately 510 homes in Westwood Parish.
Some interesting and indeed, very helpful, views and suggestions emerged and I am grateful to all those in the village who gave the canvassing team their time and thoughts
The Steering Group met on November 1st 2016 to discuss the results of the village-wide survey and were sufficiently encouraged by the results to proceed to the next stage which is to explore the financial viability of such a venture.
Visits have been made to other community led village shops at Bathford and Mells to learn how they set it up and some of the problems encountered
Anyone interested in the future of the shop, particularly if willing to help, please contact Parish Councillor Paul Phillips at wild.west.30 @outlook.com
Article published: 23 Nov 2016
Footpath from Freshford to Avoncliff: Update
This is to let you know that preparations are in hand to undertake work on the particularly muddy section of the footpath from Freshford to Avoncliff, starting from the far corner of the field opposite The Inn at Freshford and stretching 150 metres or so along the riverbank through Avoncliff Wood.
B&NES have obtained a 'Temporary Prohibition of Use by Pedestrians' Order lasting for a period of six months from 1st August 2016. The footpath will only be restricted as and when traffic signs are in position and may not be effected for the whole of the period but only for so long as is necessary to execute the works.
Several surfaces for the footpath were considered, including the possibility of pennant stone. However, it looks as if the surface will be concrete on a durable foundation to avoid it sinking into the mud! Cost constraints in the current period of austerity insist that the least expensive option be adopted, but it is our opinion that concrete will soon weather and blend into its surrounds.
Brian Micklam
Footpaths Secretary, West Wilts ramblers Group
Email: brian.micklam@gmail.com
Footpath is open from Wednesday 10th August 2016
Article published: 07 Aug 2016
Remembrance Sunday 11th. Nov. 2018
Remembrance Sunday
· Remembrance Sunday this year will actually be on November 11th. We are hoping, one hundred years after the ending of the Great War, to hold a very special communal service followed by lunch in the Parish Room. Please will anyone who has anything in the way of memorabilia, photographs, personal memories or stories about either World War, or indeed any war since, get in touch with me, Jill Ross, (01225 863562 jillbenedictross@gmail.com) or Mary Needham (01225 866322).
· Helpers and makers are invited to Poppytea at 38, The Pastures on Tuesday October 2nd from 10 o'clock onward for preparation of the poppy cascade to be displayed in the church on Remembrance Sunday.
· Harvest Festival Lunch
· Men, women and children are warmly invited to a special Fair-trade Harvest Festival lunch in the usual lavish style in the Parish Room on Sunday October 7th. Because the PCC is hoping that our church will be registered as a Fairtrade church early in 2019, the focus of our Harvest Festival service on that day will be Fair-trade, so do please join us to find out more about how we can support the farmers and workers in other countries who produce the goods we consume every day. There will be no set price but all donations will be sent to Christian Aid.
Article published: 01 Oct 2018
Dorothy House Charity
Article published: 02 Nov 2017
The original article was published in 2015. I have not had an update and suspect that contact details are not up to date. For the time being I have included a link which is up to date.
Article published: 23 Aug 2017
The Avoncliff to Freshford Footpath is it to be lost into the River Avon?
Due to the current economic climate Wiltshire Council continues to cut back on services. One area is the Rights of Way Department, which is responsible for ensuring the maintenance of our local footpaths. Their maintenance budget has been withdrawn for the balance of this financial year and they are now authorised only to effect emergency repairs to footpaths in the County. Between Westwood and Freshford there is a good example of a footpath which may soon be lost to us unless some serious maintenance work is done.
During the last year the Ramblers Association’s West Wiltshire Ramblers Group drew the attention of Westwood Parish Council to the condition of the Avoncliff to Freshford footpath. This well used path has been deteriorating for several years. The Westwood end of the path, adjoining the boundary with Freshford, is extremely muddy and slippery. Because of the danger of slipping into the river we have suggested that this part be moved higher to the edge of the woods and, therefore, away from the edge of the River Avon. A causeway made from sleepers or stepping-stones might solve the problem. It is believed that the Rights of Way Department can find a solution but it will require financial resources.
Freshford’s section of the path is considerably worse. The bank probably requires reinforcing and the drainage improving. There is evidence of a former metaled track slightly higher up the bank. Perhaps this could be reinstated? Bath & North East Somerset’s Rights of Way Department has advised us that they will be taking up the footpath’s problems in their 2015/16 budget. This is encouraging but it needs support at the Westwood end from Wiltshire Council.
It behoves all that use the Avoncliff to Freshford path to make sure that Wiltshire Council and B&NES find the resources to do the necessary work. Paths should not be seen as luxuries. The rights of way network provides vital links for local communities and allows people to access the countryside to exercise, relax and encounter nature. Not only does walking generate vital income in rural areas, it is the closest thing to perfect physical activity and is a free, easy, effective and accessible way of achieving the recommended 150 minutes a week of moderate activity.
I suggest that all users ensure that their local Councillors are made aware of the Avoncliff to Freshford path, and the need to rectify its problems.
Brian Micklam, Footpaths Secretary, West Wilts Ramblers Group.
The worst part of the Avoncliff to Freshford footpath just inside Westwood Parish. At least this part of the footpath is not narrow which poses the danger of slipping into the river
Walkers have been using the adjoining land to bypass the mire and have removed the lower barbed wire from the stock fence to rejoin the field. A gate here would be useful given the landowners consent to encroach on the land when the usual route is unpassable [ Editor's suggestion]
Freshford side of the parish boundary. An extensive slippery narrow part of the footpath with no effective fence.
The Freshford side of the parish boundary. The footpath has no effective fence. The path is narrow and slippery.
Article published: 10 Jan 2015
Wiltshire Good Neighbours
Helping people to live in their own homes for longer.
A little bit of help at the right time can make a lot of difference
I'm sure many of you have heard of the Good Neighbour Scheme; it has now been running in WIngfield and Westood for nearly 18 months. But for those of you who haven't, the Good Neighbour Scheme is a free and confidential service, which provides information and directs older residents in the villages around Bradford-on-Avon to the excellent services and organisations that are available to them.
Sometimes it's hard to find where to go to get the best information about the different services that are available, so that's where the Good Neighbour Scheme comes in. I can provide you or your friends or neighbours with information about any and every service available to help older people to live more independent and fulfilling lives.
During the last 18 months the Good Neighbour Scheme has helped many older residents in the area. These residents have received a variety of different support to help them to stay living independently in their own homes. This support has included information and / or referrals made to organisations which provide:
• Transport to hospital / medical appointments;
• Food shopping delivered to your home;
• Gardening services;
• Cleaning service (including help with changing bedding /laundry / ironing etc.,);
• Sitting services for carers;
• People to do odd jobs around the home;
• Social Activities in the local areas. A local person to call in for a chat and cup of tea.
So if you think the Good Neighbour Scheme can help you or someone you know, or if you
have any questions about the service, do please feel free to ring for a chat or to arrange a home
visit.
Caroline Metz on: 07557 922031 or bradfordgnc@communityfirst.org.uk
Article published: 31 Jul 2013
Bradford on Avon & district LINK
Many of your readers may not be aware that there is a small army of dedicated
volunteers in our district working for the good neighbour charity known as LINK.
LINK aims to provide the sort of help you would normally expect from a friend, family
member or neighbour.
LINK is all of us, anybody who at any time may need a helping hand or anybody who
may have time to spare and the ability to offer such help.
LINK is most often asked for help with transport to doctors, opticians, dentists,
hospital, day centres, and clubs or to visit friends and family. Also for practical needs,
collecting prescriptions, shopping, changing library books, simple domestic tasks or
providing company and conversation.
LINK is a registered charity staffed by all sections of the community. Volunteers
contribute according to their interests and abilities.
LINK is a free service but volunteers are refunded their out- of-pocket expenses and
the scheme relies on donations from users to meet such costs.
At the moment Bradford LINK fulfils a vital role in our community. We carry out an
average of 60 such neighbourhood tasks per week.
If you think we can help ring, 07957 367124. We can be contacted 24 hours a day,
seven days a week. Our friendly Co-ordinators operate the phone between 9.30am and
4.30pm Monday to Friday. But outside of these hours you can leave a message with
our answering service. The most important thing, however, is to leave your name and
telephone number and the Co-ordinator will call back at the first opportunity. 07957 367124
We are always looking for new volunteers so if you would like to help our community we would be very pleased to hear from you. WWW. wiltshirelink.org.uk
Article published: 28 Mar 2013
Notices
Defibrillators
A defibrillator is now located at Westwood Social Club BA15 2AP 01225 862 187 and also at the car park in Avoncliff.
Article published: 27 Mar 2017
Bradford on Avon and District Link (including Westwood)
Do you have a problem getting to a hospital or doctor’s appointment, shopping or just visiting a friend or lunch club? Link is a Good Neighbour Volunteer Service that aims to support those who need a little help to maintain their independence and quality of life. We have a team of volunteer drivers who will take you where you need to go and will wait for you until you’re ready to come home. We don’t charge for our time, but rely on clients’ donations to cover our drivers’ costs. If you need our help please ring LINK on 07957 367124. We look forward to hearing from you.
Article published: 22 Nov 2016
1. Feb/mar Mon 13th January
2. Apr/May Mon 9th March
3. Jun/Jul Mon 11th May
4. Aug.Sep Mon13th July
5. Oct/Nov Mon 14th Sept
6. Dec/Jan 2018-19 Mon 9th Nov
Please note that if you do not have any news to report to contact me and that all contributions will be acknowledged. If you do not receive an acknowledgement I have not received your copy - please send it again.
Thank you Geoff Edwards Editor Westwood Update and website
Publication Advice.
Article published: 17 Mar 2016
Article published: 05 Jul 2014
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