Living – Haydon Wick Parish Council

Liz Matthews
2 September 2026

Haydon Wick Parish Council Strengthens Its Commitment to the Armed Forces Community

Haydon Wick Parish Council Strengthens Its Commitment to the Armed Forces Community https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/covenant-pic-2.jpeg 1860 1392 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 2 September 2026 2 September 2026

Haydon Wick Parish Council has taken an important step in strengthening its support for the Armed Forces community by formally signing the Armed Forces Covenant as part of its journey towards Bronze recognition under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

The Covenant was officially signed this morning by the Chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council, Councillor Vinay Manro, alongside Councillor Leanne Stevenson, Haydon Wick Parish Councillor and Swindon Borough Council’s Armed Forces Champion.

By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, the Council is making a clear and public commitment to serving personnel, reservists, veterans and Armed Forces families. The pledge reflects the Council’s dedication to being a fair, inclusive and supportive employer, while ensuring that members of the Armed Forces community feel valued, recognised and supported within Haydon Wick.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a national promise that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, together with their families, should be treated fairly and not face disadvantage when accessing public or private services. It also recognises that special consideration may be appropriate in some cases, particularly for those who have made the greatest sacrifices.

As a voluntary signatory, Haydon Wick Parish Council joins organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in demonstrating practical support for the Armed Forces community. The Covenant allows organisations to tailor their commitments to local needs while upholding the shared principles of fairness, respect and recognition.

Councillor Vinay Manro, Chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council, said:

“Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is a proud moment for Haydon Wick Parish Council. It demonstrates our commitment to supporting serving personnel, veterans, reservists and their families, and ensuring they are treated fairly and with the respect they deserve. We recognise the valuable contribution the Armed Forces community makes to society and are proud to stand alongside them.”

Councillor Leanne Stevenson, Haydon Wick Parish Councillor and Swindon Borough Council’s Armed Forces Champion, added:

“The Armed Forces Covenant is an important way of recognising the dedication and sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces community. I am delighted to see Haydon Wick Parish Council taking this positive step and strengthening its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for those who serve and have served.”

Achieving Bronze recognition will mark an important milestone, but the Council recognises that this is only the beginning. Haydon Wick Parish Council will continue to review its employment practices, explore opportunities to strengthen support locally, and work collaboratively with partners across Swindon to champion the needs of the Armed Forces community.

By signing the Covenant, the Council is reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that those who serve, those who have served, and their families are recognised, respected and supported within the community.

Haydon Wick Parish Council is proud to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and proud to stand with the Armed Forces community.

Liz Matthews
2 September 2026

Building a Stronger, More Resilient Community Together 💙

Building a Stronger, More Resilient Community Together 💙 https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMG_3117.jpeg 2016 1512 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 2 September 2026 2 September 2026

A huge thank you to everyone who attended today’s first Community Emergency Plan volunteer meeting!

It was fantastic to bring together our volunteers and councillors for an introduction to the project, an opportunity to get to know one another, and to learn more about the role of an Emergency Hub during times of need. The discussion sparked plenty of questions and great conversations, highlighting the enthusiasm and commitment of those involved.

Volunteers shared their skills, experience and areas of interest, helping us identify where individuals can best support the community. We’re delighted that everyone has now selected their roles and provided information to help us build our volunteer database in readiness for the next stage of the project.

Our next meeting will take place in January, where we’ll put the plan into action through a series of emergency scenario exercises, helping the team prepare for a range of situations.

Thank you once again to everyone who gave their time today. The passion, knowledge and willingness to help on display promises to make this a highly effective and successful team dedicated to supporting our community when it matters most.

Interested in learning more or getting involved? Visit Emergency Planning – Haydon Wick Parish Council or contact us on: meetings@haydonwick.gov.uk for further information.

Liz Matthews
1 September 2026

Haydon Wick Through Children’s Eyes: Creative Ideas Inspire New Community Mural

Haydon Wick Through Children’s Eyes: Creative Ideas Inspire New Community Mural https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EZYR1038.jpg 1600 1200 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 1 September 2026 1 September 2026

What was once a tired and graffiti-marked bus shelter at Greenmeadow Shops has been transformed into a colourful celebration of Haydon Wick, inspired by the imagination of local children and brought to life through a true community effort.

The story began earlier this year when Haydon Wick Parish Council visited Greenmeadow Primary School to launch its “What Does Haydon Wick Mean to You?” competition. During a school assembly, pupils were invited to think about the places, wildlife and community spirit that make Haydon Wick special and to share their ideas through drawings and illustrations.

The competition was also promoted to other local schools, with pupils encouraged to take part using information provided by the Parish Council. In total, 95 entries were received from Greenmeadow Primary School, Orchid Vale Primary School and Abbey Park School.

The response was fantastic.

Children’s ideas featured everything from local wildlife and play parks to Mouldon Hill Country Park, Seven Fields Nature Reserve and the much-loved Wild Service Tree. Their creativity provided a fascinating insight into Haydon Wick through young people’s eyes and highlighted the places and spaces that mean the most to them.

The project forms part of Haydon Wick Parish Council’s Bus Shelter Regeneration Programme, which aims to transform vandalised shelters into welcoming community assets. More than simply improving a bus stop, the project was designed to celebrate local heritage, strengthen community connections, engage young people and bring colour and vibrancy to an area that had become run down over time.

Following recent community initiatives, including local litter-picking activities and environmental improvements, the mural is another positive step towards enhancing the local area and creating spaces that residents can feel proud of.

Given the shelter’s prominent location at Greenmeadow Shops, the creative ideas submitted by Greenmeadow Primary School pupils became the inspiration for the final design.

Before the artwork could begin, Haydon Wick Parish Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Team worked hard to prepare the shelter, cleaning and readying the site for its transformation. Their support helped create the perfect canvas for the mural, and the painting team would like to thank them for their valuable contribution.

Over two days, the Parish Council’s Office and Community Administrator and Marketing and Events Co-ordinator carefully brought the children’s ideas to life, combining many of their themes into a vibrant mural that reflects the unique character of Haydon Wick.

As the artwork began to take shape, it quickly became a talking point within the community. Residents regularly stopped to learn more about the project, share memories, and offer words of encouragement. Passing drivers waiting at the nearby give-way junction often greeted the team with smiles, waves and enthusiastic thumbs-up.

The support was especially appreciated as the team worked to complete the mural before the weekend.

During the final stages of the project, Cllr Leigh Jackson, Chair of the Parks and Open Spaces Committee, and Cllr Sudha Nukana, Chair of the Community Development Committee, joined the team for the final push. Armed with paint brushes, they helped add floral details to the mural while providing much-needed encouragement during the last few hours of work.

Cllr Leigh Jackson said:

“It was a pleasure to support the team during the final stages of the mural and see the children’s ideas come to life. The artwork beautifully captures so many of the things that make Haydon Wick special, from our green spaces and wildlife to the places where families come together and enjoy the outdoors. Projects like this help create a sense of pride in our public spaces and encourage people to value and look after them. I hope everyone who uses the shelter enjoys the creativity and enthusiasm that has gone into its design.”

Cllr Sudha Nukana said:

“This project is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when a community comes together. From the children who shared their ideas, to the staff who painted the mural and the residents who cheered the team on, everyone has played a part. We have transformed an overlooked space into something welcoming, vibrant and full of character. It is a fantastic example of community connection in action.”

Today, the completed mural stands as a colourful welcome bus stop in Haydon Wick. It honours the area’s wildlife, green spaces and local identity while showcasing the creativity of local young people and the value of partnership working between schools, councillors, staff and residents.

Most importantly, it demonstrates what can be achieved when a community works together to create something positive, transforming an everyday bus shelter into a landmark that reflects the pride people have in the place they call home.

Creative Ideas from the students at Greenmeadow Primary School

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Watch the bus shelter transformation

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Liz Matthews
12 August 2026

Summer Extravaganza 2026 – a Fantastic Day of Fun, Music and Community Togetherness

Summer Extravaganza 2026 – a Fantastic Day of Fun, Music and Community Togetherness https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Roundup-Post-graphic2.png 766 540 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 12 August 2026 13 August 2026

Sunny Skies and Community Spirit Shine at Haydon Wick Parish Council Summer Extravaganza

(Scroll down for a gallery of images)

Residents flocked to the Parish’s annual Summer Event on Saturday, enjoying an afternoon packed with entertainment, community activities, music, food, and fundraising, all under glorious sunshine.

Families, friends and neighbours turned out in fantastic numbers, setting up their chairs and picnic blankets for an afternoon filled with fun, laughter and community spirit. From live music and community demonstrations to charity fundraising, children’s activities and a bustling mini market, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

A highlight of the afternoon was a visit from everyone’s favourite Toy Story characters, who delighted children and adults alike. Adding extra fun to the atmosphere, a towering cowboy stilt walker entertained the crowds, while line dancing demonstrations and gun-slinging water pistol antics sprinkled a few cheerful “yeehaw” moments throughout the day.

The event also marked the exciting debut of Wicky, the Parish Mascot, who made several appearances on stage and around the event site. Wicky quickly became a firm favourite with children, posing for photos, greeting visitors and even showing off some impressive dance moves.

Haydon Wick Parish Council would like to extend sincere thanks to event sponsors Cross Street Garage and Specsavers for their valued support and contributions, and to Coles Scaffolding for providing the stage, creating a fantastic focal point and ensuring performers could be seen and enjoyed by all.

Special thanks also go to Shirley Ludford and Swindon 105.5 Radio for expertly compering throughout the day, recording the event and conducting engaging interviews that helped capture the spirit of the community and include residents in the celebrations.

The entertainment programme showcased an impressive range of local talent. The event opened with the uplifting sounds of brass music from the sidelines before audiences enjoyed the wonderful voices of the Haydon Wick Good Afternoon Choir. Performances continued throughout the day with the powerful vocals of Nicki and Tony M, while acoustic duo Tonnau provided relaxed early-evening vibes. Bringing the event to a memorable close, Ron’s Country delivered a foot-tapping finale that had the audience singing along and enjoying every moment.

Popular attractions returned this year, including Farms2Ewe Mini Petting Farm, which proved a huge hit with children and adults alike, and Scarrott’s Funfair, where visitors tested their aim at the ever-popular shooting gallery.

Community partners also played an important role in the day’s activities. Visitors were treated to engaging demonstrations from St John Ambulance, who provided an introduction to CPR, while Wiltshire Police demonstrated just how powerful a police vehicle siren can be. Swindon Martial Arts and Fitness impressed spectators with energetic martial arts displays featuring high kicks and expert techniques.

Meanwhile, Abe’s Brick Corner and Swindon Story Shed kept younger visitors entertained with LEGO activities, crafts and storytelling sessions.

The event also provided a valuable platform for local stallholders, community organisations and independent businesses. Haydon Wick Parish Council would like to thank every stallholder who attended and helped create such a vibrant event. The mini market showcased a wonderful mix of young entrepreneurs launching new ventures, local charities raising awareness and funds, and established business owners promoting their products and services. Their enthusiasm, creativity and community spirit helped make the event a true celebration of local talent and enterprise.

Visitors were also able to enjoy a fantastic selection of food and refreshments, from delicious cakes, pastries and handmade treats to Thai noodles, burgers and hot dogs. Refreshments from The Travelling Tavern and The Shield and Dagger Pub proved popular throughout the day, while Mario’s Ice Creams helped everyone stay cool in the summer sunshine.

This year’s event also supported the Parish Council’s chosen charity, CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably). Thanks to the generosity of the community, more than £900 was raised through a range of fun fundraising activities. Councillors were particularly proud of the Parish Council’s contributions to the day, including the ever-popular Councillor Stocks, where brave councillors took their place ready to be pelted with wet sponges for a good cause. The fundraising area also featured inflatable games, the much-loved Leisure Garden Stall with its fresh produce and entertaining human fruit machine, alongside a giant tombola, beautiful raffle hampers and temporary tattoos. These activities proved hugely popular with visitors of all ages and played a significant role in helping to raise vital funds for CALM. Haydon Wick Parish Council would like to thank everyone who donated, took part and supported the fundraising efforts throughout the day.

The Parish Council would like to thank everyone who attended, volunteered, performed, traded, sponsored and supported the event.

The day was a wonderful celebration of everything that makes Haydon Wick special. The fantastic turnout, generous fundraising efforts, outstanding local talent and strong community spirit ensured this year’s Summer Event was one of the most successful and enjoyable yet.

Swindon24 Interview Cllr Vinay Manro, Chairman for the Parish Council.

A few magic moments from the Summer Extravaganza ’26

Liz Matthews
29 July 2026

Grounds Maintenance Facility Officially Opens

Grounds Maintenance Facility Officially Opens https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_1539-scaled.jpg 2560 1707 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 29 July 2026 29 July 2026

Haydon Wick Parish Council was proud to officially open its new Grounds Maintenance Facility on Tuesday 28 July, welcoming residents, Leisure Garden plot holders, councillors and staff to celebrate this important milestone. The facility was officially opened by Swindon’s Mayor, Councillor Neil Hopkins, alongside Haydon Wick Parish Council Chairman, Councillor Vinay Manro. More than 50 guests attended the grand opening event, demonstrating the strong community interest in a project that has been years in the making.

A Celebration of a Long-Awaited Project

The opening event offered visitors the opportunity to explore the facility, learn about the project’s development and understand how the building will support the delivery of grounds maintenance services across the parish. Guests were invited to take part in guided tours led by Jason Watts, Facility and Operations Manager. Throughout the afternoon, Jason shared his extensive knowledge of the building and explained how the facility will improve operational efficiencies, support staff and enhance the Council’s ability to maintain parks, play areas and open spaces.

Why Was the Facility Needed?

Following the transfer of grounds maintenance services from Swindon Borough Council in 2017, Haydon Wick Parish Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Team continued to grow. The existing container-based accommodation at the Goodearl site was no longer suitable for the scale of operations required.

The new facility provides:

Modern workshops and maintenance areas
Secure storage for equipment and machinery
Improved office and welfare facilities
Dedicated operational space for the Parks and Open Spaces Team
Infrastructure to support future operational growth
Enhanced efficiency through the consolidation of staff, vehicles and equipment in one location

Sustainability at the Heart of the Project

Environmental sustainability has been a key consideration throughout the development of the facility.

Features include:

32 roof-mounted solar panels to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions
Replacement tree planting programme
Environmentally conscious building materials
Reuse of furniture and materials where practical
EV charging infrastructure included within the facility design
Operational efficiencies that reduce unnecessary travel and support greener working practices

A Project Years in the Making

The project has been developed over several years, involving detailed planning, public consultation, design and construction. From the initial proposals in 2021 through to completion and full operation in 2026, the facility represents a significant investment in the future of Haydon Wick’s green spaces and community assets.

Looking Ahead

The Grounds Maintenance Facility provides a strong foundation for the future work of the Parks and Open Spaces Team. By providing modern, purpose-built accommodation and bringing staff, vehicles and equipment together in one location, the Council is better equipped to maintain and improve the parks, play areas and open spaces that residents enjoy every day.

Haydon Wick Parish Council would like to thank everyone who contributed to the development of the facility and all those who attended the official opening event to celebrate this important achievement.

Liz Matthews
27 July 2026

What a wonderful morning at the Haydon Wick Haven

What a wonderful morning at the Haydon Wick Haven https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Haydon-Wick-Haven.jpg 2048 2048 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 27 July 2026 14 August 2026

There was lots to enjoy, from wordsearches and quizzes to magazines and good conversation over a cuppa and a biscuit. It was a relaxed, easy-going morning, with everyone able to sit back and enjoy being together.

Moments like these are exactly what the Haven is all about — a welcoming space to drop in, unwind and connect with familiar faces.

Next Haven: Monday 10th August 2026, 11am–1pm

If you’d like to know more, reach out to our Memory Café & Community Co-ordinator on: memorycafe@haydonwick.gov.uk

Liz Matthews
27 July 2026

Goodearl Dog Park Grand Opening & Dog Show

Goodearl Dog Park Grand Opening & Dog Show https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IMG_1485.jpg 1417 2126 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 27 July 2026 14 August 2026

Thank You for Making the Goodearl Dog Park Grand Opening & Dog Show Such a Success.

What a wonderful morning we had at yesterday’s Goodearl Dog Park Grand Opening and Dog Show.

After having to cancel our previous date due to extreme weather, we were more than a little relieved when the day began with some gentle rain before turning into the perfect dog-walking weather. The cool morning gradually gave way to warm sunshine, creating the ideal setting for our celebration.

We were delighted to see so many dog owners, dog lovers and community members come along to share their love of canine companions and help mark this special occasion.

The morning officially began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Haydon Wick Parish Council Chairman, Cllr Vinay Manro, alongside Gina from Muddy Squad, whose generous donation made a significant contribution towards the installation of the dog park. Thank you both for helping us officially open this fantastic new community facility.

A huge thank you also goes to Janet Garrett of Janet’s Puppy Skool for kindly giving up her Sunday morning to judge our dog show categories. From adorable puppies and talented young handlers to beloved golden oldies and the hotly contested Waggiest Tail competition, Janet brought her wealth of experience, patience and expertise to every class. She listened to heartwarming rescue and rehoming stories, encouraged our young handlers, and somehow managed the impossible task of choosing just three winners in the Waggiest Tail category.

Thank you to our wonderful traders and stallholders who brought even more canine fun to the event:

DungeonFae Face Painting

Grooming Pawgeous

Muttleigh

Swindon’s Animal Food Bank

Mario’s Ice Creams

And finally, the biggest thank you goes to our amazing community. Whether you entered your dog in the show, cheered on from the sidelines, visited the stalls or simply came along to enjoy the wonderful chaos of more than 30 dogs gathering in one place, you helped make the morning truly special.

Liz Matthews
23 July 2026

Today at the Companions Café

Today at the Companions Café https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Social-square-companions-jun.png 1100 1100 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 23 July 2026 14 August 2026

What a wonderful hive of activity we had today — full of information, support, and friendly faces ready to help.

We started the morning with David from Find Memory Care, who came along to share the free support available to companions of people living with dementia. He talked us through the equipment and practical support that can make everyday life that little bit easier for someone living with dementia at home.

We were also joined by Dee, our Admiral Nurse, who was on hand to listen and answer any questions or concerns from our wonderful companions — a real comfort to have that expertise in the room.

And finally, our local PCSOs popped in to explain the care and support the police can offer families, including guidance on the more sensitive side of dementia care, like how to respond if a loved one becomes verbally or physically aggressive. It’s not an easy topic, but one that so many of our companions face, and it meant a lot to have that support and understanding shared so openly.

Meanwhile, the fantastic team from Right at Home were busy caring for the people living with dementia themselves — playing music, enjoying games

, and cooling down together with a refreshing ice lolly! Lots of smiles and laughter all round.

Thank you to everyone who came along and shared their experiences today. This is a safe space to be heard, and to know you are never alone on this journey — we’re here for you, every step of the way.

Our next Companions Café will be on Thursday 27th August, 10:00am–12:00pm. Please note the change of venue — this Café will be held at Haydon Wick Parish Council Offices, instead of the Haydon Wick Bowls Club.

For more information and to book your space, reach out to our Memory Café & Community Co-ordinator:

memorycafe@haydonwick.gov.uk

01793 722446

https://haydonwick.gov.uk/companions-cafe/

Liz Matthews
21 July 2026

Proud to Support Our Local School Summer Fetes

Proud to Support Our Local School Summer Fetes https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Image-3.jpeg 1296 972 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 21 July 2026 14 August 2026

Haydon Wick Parish Council was proud to attend and support a series of summer fetes hosted by Greenmeadow Primary School, Haydonleigh Primary School and Oakhurst Primary School. Invited by the schools to take part in these popular community events, councillors ran a number of activities to raise funds for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), the Council’s chosen charity for the year, while helping to add to the fun for children and families attending the fetes.

Councillors joined pupils, families, staff and volunteers at each event, contributing activities that encouraged community participation and supported an important cause.

At Haydonleigh Primary School, Councillors Bradley, Manro and Stevenson ran a popular penalty shootout competition, giving children the chance to test their football skills while raising money for CALM. The event attracted strong support from families and provided a wonderful opportunity to see young people enjoying the school’s outdoor facilities. Councillor Jackson was also in attendance supporting the festivities.

Meanwhile, at Greenmeadow Primary School, Councillors Bradley, J Jackson, L Jackson and Nukana hosted a temporary tattoo stall and the ever-popular “Guess the Number of Sweets” competition. Children and parents enthusiastically took part, helping to raise funds for CALM while enjoying the summer celebrations.

The Parish Council also attended Oakhurst Primary School’s community event in partnership with the school’s PTA. Councillors Manro and Stevenson once again hosted a penalty shootout competition, raising further funds for CALM while engaging with local residents. The event also provided an opportunity for councillors to discuss community priorities, local issues and the range of summer activities taking place across the parish.

Through the activities hosted by councillors at the three events, Haydon Wick Parish Council was delighted to raise a total of £124 for CALM. While each school was running its own fundraising initiatives, the Parish Council’s activities were specifically organised to support its chosen charity. The funds raised will help CALM continue its vital work supporting people affected by suicide and mental health challenges, while raising awareness of the importance of mental wellbeing.

The Parish Council would like to thank the staff, PTAs, volunteers and everyone who attended, donated or took part in the activities. Their support helped make each event a great success and demonstrated the positive impact that can be achieved when communities come together.

Liz Matthews
17 July 2026

Inspiring Future Talent at Haydon Wick Parish Council

Inspiring Future Talent at Haydon Wick Parish Council https://haydonwick.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/HWPC-wexp.jpg 1100 1074 Liz Matthews Liz Matthews https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/3c218b56a6fa3d8df354fa71beb70533e452920ca3bf5dad7bf5eacb9ca1ed8c?s=96&d=mm&r=g 17 July 2026 14 August 2026

Over recent weeks, we have been delighted to welcome both Sebastian and Connor to Haydon Wick Parish Council for their work experience placements.

Working across a variety of teams, including our Parks and Projects Team and office staff, both students embraced every opportunity to learn more about local government and the vital role the Parish Council plays within the community.

From supporting day-to-day operations and attending Council meetings, to helping maintain our parks and public spaces, Sebastian and Connor experienced first-hand the wide range of services, events and community support provided by the Council. Their enthusiasm, professionalism and willingness to get involved made a valuable contribution to the team throughout their placements.

Despite challenging conditions, including periods of extreme heat, Sebastian worked to an excellent standard and gained a greater understanding of the many career opportunities available within local government. One aspect that particularly stood out to him was the level of vandalism our teams deal with on a regular basis. As Sebastian reflected:

“People need to respect things more. There isn’t an unlimited supply of money, and it takes time to repair and replace damaged items, putting pressure on other areas.”

Meanwhile, Connor, a History and Politics student, brought fantastic energy, curiosity and initiative to every task. Whether supporting the office team, attending his first Council meeting, or helping clear the Leisure Gardens, he approached every challenge with a positive, can-do attitude. His resourcefulness also shone through, including suggesting that the England flag be raised in support of the national team’s World Cup campaign.

Both placements provided valuable insight into the workings of local government while demonstrating the importance of teamwork, community service and public engagement. We are proud to support young people in developing their skills, broadening their career aspirations and gaining meaningful workplace experience.

We would like to thank Sebastian and Connor for their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication during their time with us. We wish them every success in their future studies and careers and hope to welcome them back to Haydon Wick Parish Council again in the future.