Environment Fete inspires green action in Westbury

Nearly 500 local residents in Westbury came along to the recent Environment Fete event at Grassacres Park, as part of a national campaign to stand up for nature and fight climate change.  

The event took part to coincide with Great Big Green Week, was initiated through the Westbury Area Board to drive forward and positively address the local priority of ‘addressing climate change’ in the Westbury community area. The event was funded through the Westbury Area Board and match funded by Westbury Town Council. 

 Local residents enjoyed the explorer dome which delivered short environmental workshops and interactive activities to engage young people and families. Local community groups including the Westbury Pollinator Corridor Project, Wiltshire Climate Alliance and  1st Westbury Beaver Scouts, provided information, advice and tips to engage all the community to make small everyday local actions. 

The event also included a traditional town fete, organised by Westbury Town Council, with competitions such as the ‘flowers in a teacup’ and the ‘best jar of homemade jam’. A dog show was delivered by Dogs for Health as part of the event, and residents could enjoy a wide range of music from local musicians and an appearance from the Piano Girl, free giant games to enjoy through the afternoon, along with refreshments. 

Cllr Mel Jacob, cabinet member for Communities, Engagement and Corporate Services, said, “This event engaged all the community to demonstrate how we all play a vital role in changing our planet. I’m pleased there was so much positive and productive partnership working to bring it to life and its clear success paves the way for more collaboration in the future.” 

Westbury Town Council said, “The two councils worked collaboratively to engage the entire Westbury community in taking small, everyday actions to address climate change. We extend our thanks to Cllr Matthew Dean, whose generous sponsorship through his business played a major role in the event’s success. We also wish to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of Cllr Jane Russ and Cllr Phil Harcourt, whose hard work and commitment were instrumental in bringing the event to life.”