Awbridge Celebrates Winning Hampshire’s Small Village of the Year

Residents of Awbridge are celebrating after their village was named Hampshire’s Small Village of the Year. The announcement was made on 23rd September at an awards ceremony organised by the Hampshire Association of Local Councils. Along with the prestigious title, Awbridge also received a £200 prize.

The victory was a surprise to many, including Cllr Gordon Piper of Awbridge Parish Council and the Awbridge District Village Association (ADVA). He noted, “We were completely surprised, because this was the first time we had entered this competition. We were up against some quite big places as well, which is why we won Small Village of the Year.”

A Closer Look at Awbridge

ADVA submitted a heartfelt letter written by resident Vicky Lage, which explained what life is like in Awbridge. Judges for the competition visited the village to meet its residents and explore the area, noting the community’s spirit.

The submission highlighted the closeness of the community and various community events such as the annual village fete, fundraising initiatives, and plans to expand the village hall. An additional point of pride was Fred Tucker, ADVA’s chair, who received a British Empire Medal (BEM) in 2024 for his service to the village.

Recognition for Recreational Facilities

Adding to their accolades, Awbridge was also the runner-up in the Best Recreational Facilities category. Cllr Piper expressed his pride saying, “I was really chuffed! The Recreational Area award was for our new play area. It has parts which were designed by local children. They created a lot of little animals which were carved and included in the play area. The judges liked the fact that members of the community were involved.”

Such communal involvement is central to Awbridge’s identity, as Lynda Tucker, Fred Tucker’s wife and an ADVA member, remarked, “It’s such a lovely village and we all help each other out. You cannot walk down the road without people stopping you for a chat!”

Celebrations and Gratitude

The £200 prize will help fund a celebratory party for the villagers. Cllr Piper emphasised that this recognition belongs to the entire community. “The award is for the villagers. (ADVA) just pulled things together, but the villagers should get the credit.”

The triumph of Awbridge as Hampshire’s Small Village of the Year exemplifies the impact of a cohesive community spirit. It’s a reminder of the influence small communities can have when their members join forces for the greater good.

Photo (C) Awbridge District Village Association