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 *
- Facebook Upper & Lower Westwood *
- Westwood Neighbourhood Watch
- Westwood Village Flower Show
- Bradford on Avon Museum Westwood*
- Westwood Football Club
* External web site
Local News
Update for Westwood Football Club.
With the weather disrupting the fixtures our footballers have only played a couple of games this year, but they still lay in second place in the Bath Sunday League league. With only a few games left it should be an interesting run in with promotion a possibility.
For any more information please contact Derek Downes on 07976 827488
Article published: 26 Mar 2018Update for Westwood Football Club.
The team currently playing in the Bath Sunday League under the name of The Griffin ( as they missed the deadline to 're- register ).Managed by two previous Westwood players Duncan Frew and Sam Gimbert, and strengthened by a couple of signings, the team are enjoying the season and currently sit in second place in the league ( as of 6/11 ).
The football club would like to say a big 'thank you' to Andy Langley of the turning circle, Bobbin Lane for his kind donation of a lawn mower which will help keep the playing field and park in good condition
For any more information please contact Derek Downes on 07976 827488'
Article published: 20 Nov 2017Update for Westwood Football Club.
The new team managed by ex Westwood players Duncan Frew and Sam Gimbert have had an excellent start to the season winning both games at home against teams from Bath by scoring seven and conceding one. They have a tough game away next week against a strong Peasedown side but should be bolstered by the inclusion of a couple of new signings that will strengthen an already capable squad.
For any more information please contact Derek Downes on 07976 82748
Article published: 27 Sep 2017Services: for recycling see below
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
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 2018Follow 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 2017Westwood 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 2016Footpath 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
Dorothy House Charity
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
Westwood village recycling
Westwood Staples Hill, Iford, Avoncliff
Article published: 08 Jun 2015The 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 2015Upper and Lower Westwood Facebook site
Our village Facebook site is called Upper and Lower Westwood and it replaces the job of a village green. Here we can share village news, traffic problems e.g. closure of Brassknocker Hill, bulletins from Wiltshire Police e.g. the bank related telephone scamming which affected a local family, post items for sale and wanted, baby sitting, cleaning and gardening services offered and wanted, and any other news we think is appropriate.
We now have nearly 90 members but in a village this size there are many who haven’t joined. Please sign up and like the page if you are able so that you receive all the latest news. We would be delighted to hear from the WI, Social Club and other clubs in the village so that everyone knows what is going on.
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
Be tick aware
Ticks can transmit bacteria that cause diseases such as Lyme disease which can lead to very serious conditions if left untreated. General information about ticks and tick bite prevention: Be tick aware (pdf)
Article published: 05 Jun 2017Bradford 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.
1. Feb/mar Mon 15th January
2. Apr/May Mon 12th March
3. Jun/Jul Mon 14th May
4. Aug.Sep Mon16th July
5. Oct/Nov Mon 17th Sept
6. Dec/Jan 2018-19 Mon 12th 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.
Article published: 17 Mar 2016
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