‘Amazing’ community spirit of village by the river
LOCALS ‘LUCKY TO LIVE HERE’
DESPITE ongoing development and change in the surrounding city, Wilford Village, tucked away by the River Trent has managed to keep its identity.
Surrounded by woodlands and with riverside spots such as the Ferry Inn and Iremongers Pond, Wilford village often attracts many visitors from other parts of Nottingham.
Residents in the leafy suburb, with a large pond and orchard on their doorstep, say it has kept its community spirit strong, especially during the Covid crisis.
Big developments in the past include the tram network which travels just past the village and the Wilford Fields housing estate where 121 homes were built in 2018.
Pat Huxley, 78, has lived in Wilford since 1994 and says the village is the best place she has ever been to.
“It really is a very lucky place to live. I am very proud of the area. It is like one big family and there is a great sense of community here.
“We often meet up for events such as big barbecues on the green, we have maypole dancing and during Covid we’ve had the Wilford support team.
“The Ferry pub is a really key part of the community too. Lots of people have worked there who live here.”
Olivia Theobald Vella, 40, has lived in Wilford for 11 years.
Originally from Malta, she says the village is her home from home. “There’s an amazing community spirit here that has been kept. I know almost everyone by their first name.
“I am on the playgroup committee and we get involved with a lot of aspects to help out in the village. We’ve recently done an Easter trail around and the schools get involved too.” Nottingham City Councillor Andrew Rule, who also lives in Wilford and represents Clifton West Ward for the Conservatives, added: “Each street seems to be doing some sort of community aspect, it’s a really nice feel to the area.
“We’ll have barbecues, outdoor cinemas and just check in on each other.”
Martin Dewsbury, 60, said the tram has helped bring people to the area and “unlock the secret of the village”.
He added: “It’s a great village to live in.
“There’s an element that Wilford village is divided by Wilford Lane with the old historical part and the newer areas but I think there is a good community feel here.
“We have good education and the Ferry pub is great.
“The tram I think has helped bring people here to see and enjoy the area more.
“It’s like unlocking the secret of the village.
“We’re very lucky to live here.”
We often meet up for events such as big barbecues on the green and we have maypole dancing
Pat Huxley