Health Check Guide

A general guide for villages taking part in the Calor Village of the Year^® competition

Villages that regularly contest their county Village of the Year or Best Kept Village competitions know the benefits that the competitive experience can bring, the raised community spirit, the energy and skills to drive a project forward, the awareness of what is good and the areas where change may be necessary.

For those villages which have never ventured into the competition ring or been nominated to take part in the national English Calor Village of the Year^® competition, the prospect may appear daunting. Help, however, is at hand.

The following notes give basic guidance on how to tackle the national Calor Village of the Year^® entry form. Villages that have taken part in the national Calor Village of the Year^® competition are usually very happy to pass on the benefit of their experience.

Should you wish to talk to past contestants please call Brian Challis on 01962 629768.

Regard the competitive process as an M.O.T.

Is the pulse of your village racing or is it sluggish and could do with a boost?
Is your community fit for life in the 21st century?
How does your village rate with others? Is it a great place to live?

The above notes have been compiled with the assistance of Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity whose contribution is gratefully recognised.