By Isle of Wight Observer
Havenstreet had every reason to be proud, as it clinched the coveted title of “the Isle of Wight’s Best Kept Village” on Wednesday, an achievement put down the hard work and the community spirit of its residents.
In the closely contested competition, 36 villages of diverse sizes were judged in various categories. The criteria included the amount of litter, the village notice board being up to date and the overall state of tidiness. The judges were unanimous in their admiration for Havenstreet, as it scored highly in all areas under scrutiny. Their visit was also marked by the discovery of a flourishing garden and a well-maintained greenhouse nestled behind the village community centre. These green spaces yielded a harvest of tomatoes, herbs, and other produce, a delicious and free resource for residents.
Veronica Hattersley, a local parish councillor and chairman of the Havenstreet Community Centre, said winning the “Best Kept Medium Village” category earlier in the evening had been “fantastic”. However, the crowning achievement of being named the overall winner left her “overwhelmed and at a loss for words – a rare occurrence for me.” She said the accolade was due to the collective dedication and hard work of many individuals, adding Havenstreet is a wonderful place to call home.
Ann Evans, chairman of the award committee, delivered a presentation at the outset of the event. She raised concerns about litter problems, particularly in larger villages, and shed light on the consequences of the ‘No Mow May’ movement, which, she said, was originally intended for domestic lawns. Its widespread adoption by public authorities had, in her view, led to many villages appearing unkempt, with overgrown paths and benches.
Another popular award of the evening was the recognition of David and Andrew Scovell, with the Village PRIDE award. They were lauded for their tireless volunteer efforts in maintaining the public toilets on Shore Road in Bonchurch, keeping them in a spotless condition. Notes of appreciation left by grateful users showed the impact of their work.
Dawn Haig-Thomas, the Island’s High Sheriff, took the opportunity to address the gathering and commend Mrs Evans for her longstanding commitment to the awards. She said it was heart-warming to learn about the exceptional work being carried out in the “very precious” villages of the Island. She recognised the impact of the efforts of a relatively small number of dedicated and selfless people working quietly around their villages, benefiting the entire community.
IW Council chairman, Cllr Claire Critchison, was also present.
Full results on page 9. See the photographs of the evening at iow.life/bkva2023 or scan the QR code with your mobile phone camera.
Here is the list of winners of the 2023 Isle of Wight Best Kept Village awards (sponsors in brackets).
Best Kept Small Village (Honnor & Jeffrey) Winner: Bonchurch – received by Chris Gorski, runners up: Brook & Hulverstone, Calbourne.
Best Kept Medium Village (Snows Garage) Winner: Havenstreet – received by Veronica Hattersley, runners up: Chale & Chale Green, Chillerton & Gatcombe.
Best Kept Large Village (Howdens) Winner: St Helens – received by Jacky Matthews, runners up: Gurnard, Seaview.
Best Kept Extra Large Village (Hose Rhodes Dickson) Winner: Totland – received by Gareth Wyre, runners up: Brading, Yarmouth.
Audrey Finlay Salver for Best Kept War Memorial Winner: Calbourne – received by Sally Chaucer.
Village PRIDE Award: Winners David and Andrew Scovell of Bonchurch
Tim Beak Trophy for Overall Winner: Havenstreet