As the year draws to a close, it is time to reflect on how wonderfully well the Whyteleafe community has come together. The collaborations between groups have been most inspiring.
For example, Whyteleafe Village Council supported volunteers to put together an unprecedented celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, which included a street party, planting a whitebeam tree in the re-named Jubilee Garden and a new orchard at Whyteleafe Recreation Ground. Sadly, we then had to unite in sorrow to mourn Her Majesty’s passing.
In collaboration again, there have been the Monday afternoon forums at St.Luke’s, offering help and friendship to our Ukrainian refugees.
Then there is the Whyteleafe Community Hub, delivering food parcels to increasing numbers of families – now almost 100 people each week. Morrisons and the Co-op are providing tremendous support alongside numerous local residents.
The village council also partnered with GTR to make, with the help of a new volunteer gardening group, both Whyteleafe stations more attractive and welcoming in the months ahead. And again, a collaborative effort has delivered a Christmas tree, carol singing and mulled wine at the Tavern in the heart of our village.
Our local community has achieved so much in the last year. However, for many it is becoming increasingly difficult to cope with the cost of living, loneliness or health issues: please keep an eye on your neighbours. The Whyteleafe Community Hub is a good place to contact if anyone needs support.
On behalf of the village council, I thank all of you for making Whyteleafe so special, and wish you a wonderful festive season at Christmas.
Contact me: Cllr.m.jones@whyteleafevillagecouncil.gov.uk.
