Forest of Dean Villages Shine at Gloucestershire Village of the Year 2025 Awards

Award winners at Gloucestershire Village of the Year 2025 ceremony.

Forest of Dean Villages Shine Bright in Community Recognition

The quaint villages of the Forest of Dean have garnered attention for their exceptional community spirit at the Gloucestershire Village of the Year 2025 awards. Held at the stunning Highnam Court, this prestigious event showcased the incredible contributions of rural communities across the county, with winners announced on July 17.

Celebrating Community Spirit and Inclusion

While Painswick in the Stroud district clinched the coveted title of overall winner, the Forest of Dean made its mark with notable honors. Woolaston village was recognized as the runner-up in the Inclusive Community category, a testament to its commitment to fostering social cohesion through impactful community initiatives. Such efforts, highlighted by the Barnwood Trust sponsorship, reflect a growing dedication among rural areas to prioritize inclusivity and unity.

Acknowledging Volunteer Excellence

In tandem with Woolaston's achievement, Westbury-on-Severn also stood out, particularly through the recognition of local resident Di Landon. Awarded the High Sheriff’s Special Award for Volunteer of the Year 2025, Di's relentless dedication to community service shines as an inspiring example of how individual contributions can profoundly affect the fabric of rural life. Her efforts exemplify the spirit of volunteerism crucial to small communities.

Getting Involved: Building a Better Community

The accolades received by these villages are not just a celebration of past achievements but a call to action for all community members. Engaging in volunteer opportunities and local initiatives can help further strengthen the bonds within the Forest of Dean. This recognition serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the significant impact individuals can make.

As these villages continue to foster an inclusive and vibrant community spirit, local businesses and organizations are encouraged to get involved. Whether through sponsorship, offering services, or simply participating in community events, there are numerous ways to contribute to this growing movement of cooperation and kindness.

Community Initiatives & Volunteering

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Forest of Dean Villages Shine at Gloucestershire Village of the Year 2025 Awards

Forest of Dean Villages Shine Bright in Community Recognition

Celebrating Community Spirit and Inclusion

Acknowledging Volunteer Excellence

Getting Involved: Building a Better Community

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