Love Where You Live in Weston PE12 group launches with a 'Picnic in the Park' at Small Drove Playing Fields

Volunteers in Weston have formed a new group aiming to bring the village together by putting on a series of events.

The Big Village Picnic, at Small Drove Playing Fields, on Sunday between noon and 4pm is the first event planned by the Love Where You Live in Weston PE12 group.

Face painting, bouncy castle, pony rides, sports day races, cake stall and a vintage vehicle display are some of the activities on offer at the event which has been described by the group as a "Picnic in the Park".

Hayley Hammond, the group's chairman, said: "Initially, the idea for Love Where You Live in Weston PE12 was to raise funds for whatever villagers want and need.

"But when you think of village life, you think of fetes, carnivals, cake sales and saying hello to everyone you meet.

"People do fall in love with the place where they live and the aim of The Big Village Picnic is to help improve the community spirit in Weston, as well as to attract guests who live in the surrounding area so they can see what its beautiful playing fields have to offer."

Support for the picnic, as well as the group, has come in the way of sponsorship from businesses, parish and district councillors.

Hayley said: "Our group is hoping to come up with a calendar of events that we hope will help pull the community together and encourage us all to meet our neighbours.

"I would like to express my personal thanks to all the committee members who have joined me to make this happen and who, over the past few months, have been busy tidying the playing fields in Weston.

"In addition, young people on National Citizen Service placements have painted play equipment and several litter picks have taken place as well.

"We also have the support of Weston Parish Council whicho, along with a number of businesses, have offered donations to the group which has allowed us to create this event."

Coun Chris Dicks, chairman of Weston Parish Council, said: "We have always supported this venture and the financial support given by the council to the Love Where You Live in Weston group shows what members think of this superb idea which will consolidate the community spirit in the village."