Regional Winners

Ashington - Regional Winner 2003

Ashington, situated north of Worthing in West Sussex, has enjoyed previous success in the Calor Village of the Year^® competition having been awarded two category prizes in 2001 for Community Life and Business. The village continues to be a vibrant, thriving and hard-working community and, although having altered dramatically over the past four years in terms of its make-up, remains fully integrated and all embracing.

Whilst changing demographics have torn apart many communities across the UK in recent years, Ashingtons growing population has merely driven the village to work harder to welcome its new residents. The population in Ashington has increased by a massive 70% in the past four years and, rather than shying away from the problems associated with such an influx of newcomers, the village has confronted them head on.

Ashington has benefited financially in recent years because of the building developments in the area. However, they have succeeded where so many others have failed by using this financial gain creatively and innovatively to the gain of the whole community.

Ashington did not sit back after the villages success in the 2001 competition. It continued to move on and improve; using the results of two village appraisals to implement both the ongoing and newly developed needs of the community. For example, a number of environmental issues have been overcome with the creation of several ponds and wildlife areas. A new community centre was also opened at the end of November, which complements the villages extensive community activity.

The village is thriving in all aspects with local businesses working alongside the community to provide sponsorship for the village carnival as well as donating prizes and equipment for a variety of events. Ashington has worked to build upon its success in the Business category in 2001, encouraging new businesses to the area.