Regional Winners

Oakley - Regional Winner 2004

Bedfordshire village Oakley is situated north west of Bedford and has a population of 2,300. It is a thriving village that has lots going on for residents of all ages who enjoy belonging to groups and getting involved in community activity. Everyone who lives in or visits Oakley is valued and respected. New ideas are welcomed and the village is constantly changing and developing.

Oakley parish council is diverse and represents villagers aged from 30 to 80. Many councillors are active members of, or have family members who are involved in, one or more of the village’s organisations which cover a wide range of ages and social interests. So, in essence, everyone in the village has a voice on the council. It works closely with other groups within the village and outside bodies to tackle issues of concern and is currently involved in the formulation of a Village Plan.

Oakley last carried out a village appraisal in 1981, so residents are looking forward to comparing the results of the current village plan to the previous ones. The plan will be used to ensure that the amenities available in the village, such as the mobile library and a police information bus, continue and other services are enhanced. A youth liaison group has already been formed as a result of the village plan activity in order to involve younger villagers in realising their ideas.

The two churches in Oakley work closely together providing a network that brings all ages and groups together. The church ministers also offer pastoral care to people outside of the village, for example to the asylum seekers being held at the nearby Yarlswood Detention Centre. Such commitment to the welfare of others is indicative of the community spirit present in Oakley, which is driving the village forward and which makes it the great place it is to live in.