A whole day has been set aside to celebrate the anniversary of one of Peasedown St John’s most beloved community meeting places and housing estates on Sunday 29th July.
The Green, located in-between Frederick & Albert Avenues, has been used as a popular recreational and social space since the late 1940s, and has very much been at ‘the heart’ of the community for several generations.
Last year, Peasedown St John Councillor Karen Walker (Independent) came up with the idea to mark the 70th anniversary of the estates with a celebration of ‘love and laughter’ this July.
Karen, who grew up in Frederick Avenue, said: “Since the late 1940’s, children of all ages and local families have used this space for recreational use, outside events, social activities, community carol services and so much more.
“For so many of us The Green is a part of our childhood. Generations of families have played here with thousands of people, over a near seventy-year span, having fond memories of summer fun days on The Green.”
Cllr Walker, along with her ward colleague Cllr Sarah Bevan, have teamed up with the Wansdyke Play Association (WPA) and the village Residents’ Association to put on this special celebratory event.
Stuart Rouse, a long serving Play Ranger with WPA, said: “We’re thrilled to have been asked to help organise and facilitate the event. It’s going to be a whole day for the family, not just children. People of all ages will have stories and memories to tell from either living on the estate now, or in the past.
“We’d like to encourage them all to come along and take part in our mural art project – a chance for people to paint, draw and re-live their memories from 70 years of the Frederick and Albert Avenues.”
The event will include traditional fete games, music, hot food and drink, skittles, a sand pit, bouncy castle, and the unveiling of an anniversary plaque by Karen and Sarah, who will be joined by local historian Dick Graham.
Cllr Sarah Bevan (Independent), added: “Thanks to Dick for accepting our invitation to attend the event. His many books about Peasedown’s history and vast knowledge about the community makes him a local treasure!
“He’ll be saying a few words on the day about the housing estate, and the positive impact it’s made on people’s lives for almost 70 years.”
The total cost of the event will be near £1,500. Funding has been provided by Peasedown Party in the Park, Cllr Karen Walker’s Initiative Fund, Nathan Hartley and the Parish Council.
Cam Valley Arts will also be at the event to help celebrate the occasion.
’70 Years of Love and Laughter’ will be held on The Green, Peasedown St John on Sunday 29th July, 11am – 3pm. All are welcome to attend.