VOLUNTEERS have stepped forward to help save the Friends of Lees Hill group from closure.
The Friends, who have been running community events in the park in Kingswood for the past three years, faced an uncertain future after their chair and secretary announced in July that they were leaving.
But after an appeal on social media and an open meeting, more people have offered to help, although the two committee roles have yet to be filled.
The chair, Emily Bright, who is moving away, said she was hopeful that the group, which has about 40 members, would be able to continue. The treasurer, who has been in post from the start, is continuing.
Emily said: “Our motto is ‘Bringing our local community together’. We want the sense of community around Lees Hill to grow by offering accessible events for all. We also work with the local football club, which leases the playing fields, and councillors to improve the area.”
Since 2021, the group has been hosting events ranging from litter picking and bingo nights to quiz nights and Christmas lights trails in the Lees Hill area. Two are coming up: Guy Fawkes Gathering on November 8 from 5.30pm and a Christmas Lights Trail on December 8 from 4.30pm.
Lees Hill Playing Fields are leased from South Glos Council by Hanham Abbotonians Football Club. Facilities include several football pitches on the field and a clubhouse with a bar, which can be used by the community. There is also a basketball court, a tennis court, a children’s play park and a dedicated car park. Accessibility is good for prams and wheelchairs, and the field has a flat concrete path all around.
In March 2024, the group was awarded a £1,000 grant from South Gloucestershire Council, which enabled them to run more community events. One event that was particularly successful was Picnic in the Park, which took place in July and featured performances from Bristol Concert Wind Band, Bristol East and Kingswood Brass Band, 344 Dance School and Page Park Ukulele Club.
Emily said: “The annual Picnic in the Park event has grown over the past three years, and this year’s event was spectacular! We had a huge turnout, and lots of families stayed for the whole day. There were familiar faces and new residents, football club attendees and local businesses.”
To find out more about volunteering or joining the committee, you can get in touch by email friendsofleeshill@gmail.com or via Facebook.