Dorset village aims to transform local green through crowdfunder
The community in Broadwindsor are hoping to upgrade Bernard's Place
A crowdfunding campaign is being launched in Broadwindsor in an effort to raise £20,000 to transform the village green.
The project aims to provide the community with, play and exercise equipment and open space that can stage community events.
Margery Hookings is leading the Crowdfunder appeal for the Comrades Hall Management Committee. She said:
“Bernards’ Place is something we all treasure. By reconfiguring the space, adding new, inclusive and challenging play and activity equipment, introducing exercise sessions and equipment for all ages, as well as staging community events, there will be something for all of us to enjoy, bringing together people of all ages and abilities, and helping to improve health and well-being.
“It will provide an enhanced facility to keep our community physically active and encourage others, who don't necessarily see themselves as 'sporty', to join in.”
The transformation of the village green comes as part of a successful bid to The National Lottery Community Fund which has seen some funds allocated to make Comrades Hall more eco-friendly.
The plan to transform the green began almost three years ago and the project was first mooted two years ago. However, costs have risen by around £20,000 since then.
Margey said:
“Fundraising events are planned but we really hope people and local businesses will support our appeal to meet the shortfall.
“During the pandemic, when we could only go out to exercise, our village green became even more important to us as a community.”
Sport England has pledged £8,000 towards the appeal once the £5,000 mark has been reached. Payment of the grant relies on there being at least 100 unique supporters and reaching the £20,000 target.
Margery believes that completing the project would be a fitting tribute to the late David Leader who led the project before passing earlier this year.
“He was an amazing man with great enthusiasm, integrity and a strong commitment to community. We owe it to him to get it done, it would be a lasting tribute to his memory”.
You can support the appeal on the village's Crowdfunder page.