A new, larger team of community volunteers have been appointed to run Peasedown’s growing Residents’ Association, which is celebrating its 5th birthday this year.
Set up in August 2013, Peasedown St John Residents’ Association aims to continue its grassroots community work in providing activities for local people that help prevent isolation and loneliness.
Chairwoman of the Association, Joy Gosz said: “We’ve got a lot to be proud of at the Association. Thanks to the support of B&NES Council and Curo we’ve raised almost £5,000 over five years for children’s work, seasonal parties, events for the elderly, our new community garden project, the refurbishment of St John’s Community Room, and our weekly Job Search drop-in sessions.”
The Association is now working with B&NES Council to open a new community library, and Wansdyke Play Association to set up a new social enterprise which will facilitate pre-school activities in Peasedown.
“We’ve now got an even stronger team to take our new plans forward,” added Joy.
Elected to the Residents’ Association Management Committee at their Annual General Meeting last week were:
- Chair – Joy Gosz
- Vice Chair – Geoffrey Fenton
- Treasurer – Rose Timperley
- Secretary – Nathan Hartley
- Committee Member – Richard Clarke
- Committee Member – Marjorie Bridges
- Committee Member – Sarah Bevan
- Committee Member – Karen Walker
- Committee Member – Mandy Clarke
Joining the team are local B&NES Councillors Sarah Bevan and Karen Walker (Independent).
In a joint statement, the pair said: “We’ve been hugely impressed by the work of the group since it was set up in 2013. They’ve been campaigning hard in the background for better services for residents, particularly supporting those who find it difficult to speak out for themselves.
“We like the Association’s vision for the future, and believe it’s a strong vehicle for positive change in our community. We’re looking forward to getting stuck in with events and activities over the next 12 months.”
Peasedown St John Residents’ Association holds weekly Coffee & Job Search Drop-Ins every Wednesday (during term-time) from 1-3pm, and a popular Big Breakfast on the last Friday of every month (during term-time).
All events are held at St John’s Community Room, St John’s Close, Peasedown St John, BA2 8JG.
