High Peak CVS intends to catch up with one of our groups in a regular, new series called ‘Spotlight on…’ We hope to discover more about the outstanding voluntary work that’s happening across Derbyshire’s High Peak.
This month, we’re talking to Whaley4Wards, who are a prominent, volunteer-led group who are dedicated to cleaning, maintaining and revitalising the four distinct municipal wards that comprise the civil parish of Whaley Bridge.
- WHAT DOES YOUR GROUP DO?
We work very closely with Whaley Bridge Town Council and are funded by them – while also having a great working relationship with High Peak Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council.
In recent times, we’ve created seven or eight community gardens in Whaley Bridge and one in Bridgemont. Taking unwanted pieces of land, obtaining relevant permission and turning them from unkempt weed infested land into gardens.
We also turn our hands to various painting projects at various sites, churches, railings, benches, public toilets… and much more. For example, we recently painted the old Imperial Palace restaurant in Furness Vale at the request of local residents.
We also work closely with other groups like ‘Friends of the Park’ as well as The Elnor Lane Group, who over the last year have cleared the old play area by the garages and worked with High Peak Borough Council to create a complete new park and nature reserve.
- WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE?
We have just finished a ‘Step back in Time’ history trail with two walks devised. In coming weeks, nine plaques with QR codes giving further information about these walks will be in position around Whaley Bridge and leaflets will be made available at various locations…
As a group, we’ll have a go at most things.
- HOW HAS HIGH PEAK CVS ASSISTED YOUR GROUP?
We joined High Peak CVS in 2025 after we became aware that many local residents didn’t know what we do, what we’ve achieved… and what we’d like to achieve on their behalf.
- HOW CAN ANYONE WHO WOULD LIKE TO GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR GROUP DO SO?
We’re always on the lookout for volunteers who actively want to get involved with our group….
If you have a couple of hours to spare and are interested in getting involved then email: igkidd@hotmail.co.uk
Come along and get involved!
