Last Sunday, 29th July, the Peasedown St John community came together to celebrate a popular community meeting place and housing estate.
The Green, located between Frederick and 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 and Chairwoman of B&NES Council, Karen Walker (Independent) came up with the idea to mark the 70th anniversary of the estates with a celebration of ‘love and laughter’.
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, teamed up with the Wansdyke Play Association (WPA) and the village Residents’ Association to put on the special celebratory event which included the unveiling of an anniversary plaque.
The event, held in St John’s Community Hall due to rain, included traditional fete games, music, hot food and drink, a sand pit, face painting and the start of the creation of a mural with Cam Valley Arts.
Cllr Sarah Bevan (Independent), added: “The rain didn’t stop local people coming along to celebrate this special anniversary. Thanks to all the helpers, volunteers and the funders who donated to the cause.”
Funding was provided by Peasedown Party in the Park, Cllr Karen Walker’s Initiative Fund, Nathan Hartley and the Parish Council.