Community Event

The Power of Community

The Power of Community 2333 1750 Liz Matthews

HAYDON WICK PARISH COUNCIL ANNOUNCES CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR THE KELLY FOUNDATION DURING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK

SWINDON, UK – Haydon Wick Parish Council is proud to announce its unanimous decision to continue supporting The Kelly Foundation as its chosen charity for 2025-26, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Week. The Council has successfully raised £628.54 for the Foundation in the 2024-25 period, with funds being transferred immediately to support the charity’s vital mental health services in North Swindon.

In addition to this donation, the Council has enthusiastically endorsed The Kelly Foundation’s proposal for a Mental Health Hub, recognising it as an essential resource for the community.  Councillors collectively pledged to attempt to fundraise for the requested £9,000 target needed for this essential community resource.

“Mental health support is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for our community,” said Councillor Vinay Manro, Chairman of Haydon Wick Parish Council. “The Kelly Foundation’s work aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting the wellbeing of all residents. Their holistic approach to mental health needs makes them an ideal partner for our community, and we’re proud to continue this important relationship for another year.”

The Kelly Foundation provides crucial support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges in Swindon, with the aim of reducing suicide risk through timely, holistic interventions. The charity currently supports 43 service users and has 13 people on its waiting list. Their approach extends beyond one-to-one emotional support to address underlying life stressors and provides continuity of care through a “one-stop shop” model.

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Haydon Wick Parish Council is hosting several community events:

  • Haydon Wick Haven: A fortnightly Monday group combating isolation and loneliness, featuring activities and guest speakers
  • Craft and Connect: A new initiative launching Thursday to foster friendships through shared creative hobbies
  • Community Litter Pick: Parish Councillors invite residents to join them for outdoor exercise and conversation on Saturday
  • “The Power of Community” Event: Mental Health awareness gathering at the Orbital Shopping Centre on Sunday at 10am, featuring representatives from The Kelly Foundation, Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Fire Brigade, and local Councillors

These events reinforce the message that community connection is essential for mental wellbeing, helping residents feel they belong, are supported, and are never alone.

About The Kelly Foundation

The Kelly Foundation is dedicated to reducing suicide risk in Swindon through a holistic approach to mental health support. Beyond providing one-to-one emotional support, the charity works to address underlying causes of stress and poor mental health. The Foundation operates a community café offering supported work experience and training, which also serves as a venue for group sessions including PTSD and Eating Disorder support groups. The charity is entirely funded by donations and community fundraising efforts.

VE Day Celebrations – Thank you for joining us!

VE Day Celebrations – Thank you for joining us! 1080 1146 Liz Matthews
A Heartfelt Thank You for Our Incredible VE Day Celebration Family Picnic!
What an absolutely magnificent day we had at Mouldon Hill Country Park! We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible turnout and the wonderful community spirit that made our VE Day Celebration Family Picnic such a resounding success.
The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, blessing us with glorious sunshine as approximately 400 residents came together to create memories that will last a lifetime. From those who arrived on foot, by car, or via the nostalgic Swindon & Cricklade Railway, the excitement was palpable from the moment everyone arrived.
A massive thank you to our amazing contributors who made the day truly special:
  • Swindon Brass: Your melodious tunes transported us back in time, filling the park with wonderful nostalgic music
  • George Scarrott’s and Sons Funfair: Your traditional attractions like Coconut shy, hook-a-duck, and swing boats brought joy to children and adults alike
  • Mandies Magic Brushes: The face painting was a hit, transforming our little ones into walking works of art
  • Nick’s Ices: Those refreshing ice creams were the perfect treat on a sunny day
  • Our Local PCSOs: A special thank you to our dedicated Police Community Support Officers who cycled n to check that we were all keeping safe.
Special Thanks to Our Supporters
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Nick’s Ices and Motor Care Ltd for their kind donations that contributed to the success of this event. To our dedicated volunteers, hardworking staff, and supportive councillors whose support made this celebration possible. Your commitment to our community does not go unnoticed, and we are incredibly grateful for your passion and effort.
The lawn games were a delightful throwback to traditional pastimes, with families enjoying Croquet and other classic activities. It was heartwarming to see generations coming together, sharing laughter and creating beautiful memories.

Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for our next big event – the Haydon Wick Summer Extravaganza! Join us on Saturday, 16th August at Trent Road Playing Fields for another unforgettable community celebration.
Thank you to everyone who came, shared, and made this day so special. Your presence and enthusiasm make our community truly extraordinary!
See you all soon!

VE Day Celebrations at Mouldon Hill Country Park

VE Day Celebrations at Mouldon Hill Country Park 1080 1146 Liz Matthews
Join us for a Nostalgic VE Day Family Picnic! 🎉
Step back in time Saturday, 10th May (12-3pm) at Mouldon Hill Country Park for a community celebration to remember!
Bring your picnic, chairs, and rugs as we come together to honour this historic day in style. Enjoy the soothing melodies of Swindon Brass as they transport us back to the 1940s with their nostalgic tunes.
Whether you want to participate in our fun outdoor games or simply relax on your picnic blanket with an ice cream soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Make a day of it by taking a ride on a vintage train between Mouldon Hill Country Park and Swindon & Cricklade Railway stations.
👗 Dust off your 1940s fashion and join the fun!
📍 Mouldon Hill Country Park & Swindon & Cricklade Railway
⏰ Saturday, May 10th, 12-3pm

As you prepare to join us at Mouldon Hill Country Park (12-3pm), please be mindful when packing your picnic:

  • NO glass bottles
  • NO BBQs or naked flames of any kind
  • Help protect our beautiful green spaces and keep our wildlife safe

🚗 Limited parking – why not embrace the day fully by leaving your car behind?
Remember, you can walk from Haydon Wick, take the #16 bus to Tawny Owl Pub, or park at Swindon & Cricklade Railway for a nostalgic train ride to the park.

Bring your chairs, blankets, and 1940s spirit for a wonderful community celebration! 🌳

See event map below:

Announcing our Haydon Wick Heroes 2025

Announcing our Haydon Wick Heroes 2025 2333 1750 Liz Matthews
🏆 We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible individuals and groups who make our community shine! Please join us in congratulating this year’s Haydon Wick Hero Award winners:
🌟  VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Mike Gregory.
Mike goes above and beyond to support his local community. He has been volunteering to drive the community bus for many years and builds wonderful relationships with his passengers, often visiting them in hospital, taking them to appointments and checking on their wellbeing. Always cheerful and happy to help, Mike regularly gives up two days a week to volunteering with us.
🌟 YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR: Blythe.
Blythe is passionate about making a difference to the community she loves. She has dedicated herself to litter picking every weekend, showing remarkable commitment to keeping our parish clean. A real inspiration, we are so proud of Blythe for being such a proactive member of the parish of Haydon Wick.
🤝 COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR:
Emmanuel United Reform Church Lunch Club. This dedicated group provides fantastic home-cooked meals for local elderly residents every Thursday, creating a wonderful community feeling and fostering friendship. The volunteers are always kind, welcoming, and friendly, making a real difference in the lives of those they serve.
A heartfelt thank you to ALL our nominees who contribute to making Haydon Wick such a wonderful place to live, work, and thrive. These awards celebrate the extraordinary people who go above and beyond to serve others.
Learn more about the Haydon Wick Heroes Awards: haydonwick.gov.uk/haydon-wick-heroes

Annual Parish Meeting and Community Networking Event

Annual Parish Meeting and Community Networking Event 2333 1750 Liz Matthews

See Full Agenda Here

Come along to the Annual Parish Meeting and Networking event on Tuesday 29th April 2025 6.15pm – 8.15pm in GLL Haydon Centre, SN25 1QQ

Join us for our Annual Parish Meeting featuring special guest speaker Philip Wilkinson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon!
 
✅ Receive updates from your Gold Award-winning Parish Council
✅ Network with community groups that help Haydon Wick thrive
✅ Learn about local initiatives and accomplishments
✅ Opportunity to ask the Police Commissioner questions about local policing
 
This is your chance to celebrate our parish achievements, connect with neighbours, and engage with the organisations that make Haydon Wick such a desirable place to live and work.

VE Day Celebrations at Mouldon Hill Country Park

VE Day Celebrations at Mouldon Hill Country Park 1080 1146 Liz Matthews
Join us for a Nostalgic VE Day Family Picnic! 🎉
Step back in time Saturday, 10th May (12-3pm) at Mouldon Hill Country Park for a community celebration to remember!
Bring your picnic, chairs, and rugs as we come together to honour this historic day in style. Enjoy the soothing melodies of Swindon Brass as they transport us back to the 1940s with their nostalgic tunes.
Whether you want to participate in our fun outdoor games or simply relax on your picnic blanket with an ice cream soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Make a day of it by taking a ride on a vintage train between Mouldon Hill Country Park and Swindon & Cricklade Railway stations.
👗 Dust off your 1940s fashion and join the fun!
📍 Mouldon Hill Country Park & Swindon & Cricklade Railway
⏰ Saturday, May 10th, 12-3pm
🚗 Limited parking – why not embrace the day fully by leaving your car behind?
Want to get involved? We’re looking for community groups and schools to help decorate, local entertainers, and wartime memorabilia for our display.
Contact Liz for more details: marketing@haydonwick.gov.uk or 01793 722446

Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Wednesday 9th April 2025

Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Wednesday 9th April 2025 150 150 Liz Matthews

Welcome to Haydon Wick Parish Council’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt!
Join us to hunt for colourful eggs! 

We have 2 FREE events running this year:

King George V Play Park
High Street, SN25 1HX
  (What3Words: ///emulating.distorts.stylists)
10.00am – 10.45am

Queen Elizabeth Drive Play Area
Queen Elizabeth Drive, SN25 1UE ///refreshed.ringers.windows
11.30am – 12.15pm

Watch this space as the booking form will be out soon!. Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. Children must be under the age of eleven and live in the Haydon Wick Parish to qualify.

Don’t miss out on this egg-citing event!

Memory Café – Disco Through The Decades

Memory Café – Disco Through The Decades 2333 1750 Liz Matthews
🕺💃 Blast from the Past: Disco Memories Delight! 🎶✨
 
Haydon Wick Parish Council Memory Café teamed up with Pinetrees Memory Café and Highworth Forget-me-not Café for an absolutely GROOVY afternoon of musical memories!
 
Our residents took a musical journey through the decades, dancing from the 60s right through to the 90s. But let’s talk about the FOOD – oh, the glorious 70s cuisine! 🍽️
 
Highlights included:
Jo’s adorable blancmange rabbit shapes 🐰
Cheese and pickled onions on sticks 🧀
Bacon Frazzles 🥓
Ice-cold Tizer to wash it all down 🥤
 
Residents from across Swindon came together, reminiscing about the good old days and creating brand new memories. Groovy times were had by all!
 
Thank you Debs @PinetreesMemoryCafe for including us in your amazing event!
 
If you’d like to find out more about the Memory Café, contact the Memory Café Co-ordinator, Jo on memorycafe@haydonwick.gov.uk or 01793 722446 or visit our website at: https://haydonwick.gov.uk/memory-cafe/

Memory Café & Over 60’s Barn Dance

Memory Café & Over 60’s Barn Dance 2333 1750 Liz Matthews
🎉 Get ready to kick your heels up at our Memory Café & Over 60’s Barn Dance! 💃🕺🌭
Join us for a lively afternoon as the Black Velvet Ceilidh Band fills the GLL Haydon Centre Sports Hall with toe-tapping tunes! 🎻🎵
📅 When: 15th November ’24
⏰ Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
📍 Where: GLL Haydon Centre Sports Hall (SN25 1QQ)
💷 Ticket Price: £12
Dust off your cowboy boots and don your best western wear – it’s time to dress to impress! 👢🤠
Never tried barn dancing before? No worries! Our friendly caller will guide you through every step, ensuring everyone can join in the fun! 🕺💃
Feeling peckish after all that dancing? We’ve got you covered! 🍔
Enjoy hot refreshments including delicious hot dogs, burgers, and more to keep your energy up!
Don’t miss out on this afternoon of music, laughter, tasty treats, and community spirit. It’s going to be a whirl of excitement!
To book your spot or for more information, contact Memory Café Co-ordinator Jo:
📧 memorycafe@haydonwick.gov.uk
📞 01793 722446

Giddy up and join us for a knee-slappin’, belly-fillin’ good time! 🤠🎊🌭🍔

See less

Memory Café and Over 60s Barn Dance

Memory Café and Over 60s Barn Dance 2333 1750 Liz Matthews
🎉 Get ready to kick your heels up at our Memory Café & Over 60’s Barn Dance! 💃🕺🌭
Join us for a lively afternoon as the Black Velvet Ceilidh Band fills the GLL Haydon Centre Sports Hall with toe-tapping tunes! 🎻🎵
📅 When: 15th November ’24
⏰ Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
📍 Where: GLL Haydon Centre Sports Hall (SN25 1QQ)
💷 Ticket Price: £12
Dust off your cowboy boots and don your best western wear – it’s time to dress to impress! 👢🤠
Never tried barn dancing before? No worries! Our friendly caller will guide you through every step, ensuring everyone can join in the fun! 🕺💃
Feeling peckish after all that dancing? We’ve got you covered! 🍔
Enjoy hot refreshments including delicious hot dogs, burgers, and more to keep your energy up!
Don’t miss out on this afternoon of music, laughter, tasty treats, and community spirit. It’s going to be a whirl of excitement!
To book your spot or for more information, contact Memory Café Co-ordinator Jo:
📧 memorycafe@haydonwick.gov.uk
📞 01793 722446

Giddy up and join us for a knee-slappin’, belly-fillin’ good time! 🤠🎊🌭🍔

See less

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