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Scarecrows Welcome!

Village Fact File
County: Hertfordshire
Village: Flamstead
Location: North of Hemel Hempstead, close to the Bedfordshire border
Population: 1,500
Website: www.flamstead-herts.co.uk

In Flamstead a youth parish council ensures that younger residents are actively encouraged to get involved in general community life. The organisation also arranges special events and trips with transport which help keep the village’s teenage residents entertained. There are also many other activities available for young people in the village, and the local schools and churches organise events specifically targeted at them. The community spirit in Flamstead is strong, and the village is noted for its many, very varied and successful community events, including street parties, a village fayre and a village show.

Nearly 50% of villagers have lived in Flamstead for over 16 years, and more than 80% have been in the village for over 6 years. This stability of villagers has resulted in the creation of a well established information network that encompasses every section of the community. However, when new residents do come to the village, they are welcomed warmly and provided with a pack of information on various groups and activities. A village magazine, a free copy of which is given to newcomers, and a website (www.flamstead-herts.co.uk) also make sure that villagers are always up to date with village news and upcoming events. This is also true of the surrounding areas. The village’s sports and social club has a very large catchment area, attracting people and players from the surrounding towns and villages. One of Flamstead’s main events, the annual scarecrow festival, attracts thousands of visitors to the village every year.

A care bus, shared with the neighbouring village of Markyate, ensures that everyone in the village can get out and about. It is in use most days, mainly by older members of the community, for shopping trips, theatre outings and transport to and from clubs. However, the bus can also be hired for other community social outings including those specifically for young people, so no one in the village is isolated or without a means of transport if required.

There are a small number of people in need in the village and, through an informal network involving the churches, various community groups and individual residents, their requirements are identified and help/support, if required, is made available. Specialist housing designed for a disabled resident is also available in the village. There are also houses available specifically for single parent families and subsidised housing for older residents.

The parish council works hard to communicate well with residents. Minutes are published on the village noticeboards and a regular report goes into the village magazine. A village appraisal has been conducted to get feedback from all residents on their concerns and needs, and all parish council meetings are open to everyone in the village with opportunities available for them to participate if they so wish.