Regional Winners

Harbury - Regional Winner 2003

Harbury, situated near Leamington Spa in Warwickshire, with a population of 2,500 residents, is a thriving village with an evident community sprit.

Communication is key to ensuring that residents are aware of the current issues affecting Harbury, forthcoming events, and of the 60 interest groups that are active in the village. The Harbury News is a monthly magazine which is organised by volunteers and receives contributions from all sectors of the community. The magazine covers the latest news affecting the village, all the important diary dates, village history and the views of residents. Complimentary copies are provided to the elderly and to new residents to welcome them into the community.

In Harbury the needs of residents are met through services such as the ’Harbury Helpline’ which is manned by volunteers and provides general information as well as assisting residents in need of transport. The elderly receive concessionary travel and have many community led services, such as meals on wheels, at their disposal. The needs of other age groups present in the village are equally well met. For instance, through the Harbury Youth Project, the young people of Harbury have been consulted on village issues, which has resulted in a new facility for skateboard enthusiasts and they are now working towards a BMX track!

Residents organise many events which attract a large number of visitors to the area and raise funds to support local fundraising campaigns. Popular events include a week long Carnival held in June which includes activities for all age groups, and a Victorian Street Fayre, held in October, which is steeped in tradition. The village hall, which forms the heart of village activity, was built partly as a result of Harbury’s fundraising activities.

Harbury is continually striving to build on its accomplishments. Through the Harbury Parish Review, a survey sent to all households, residents are given the opportunity to appraise all aspects of life in the village with the concerns raised being addressed on a continuing basis. Through its pro-active approach, Harbury continues to offer residents an exceptional quality of village life.