During our contacts within the village over the last 18 months much has been said about the need for facilities and activity for our younger population.

Whilst resource has been limited we have not avoided consideration of that need and continue to do so.

The important step taken so far has been to support greater activity on our playing field in the form of football – we were grateful for two dads who came forward to help in this area, They have been very committed to excellent effect – a short report from them is here :

“Since establishing Longwick Lions Youth Football Club at the start of this season in July 2026, we have now signed up 60 youth players across three age groups: U5/6s, U8s and U11s. The feedback from local residents in Longwick and the families who have joined the club has been overwhelmingly positive. Coaches are often stopped by dog walkers and local residents enjoying the green, who express their delight at seeing young people playing football there again. Due to the rapid growth in player registrations, we have been fortunate to expand our coaching team and recruit additional volunteers. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has given their time to support the club's continued development. We are also very thankful for the support provided by Longwick Parish Council and the trustees of Longwick Sports Club in helping establish and grow the club “.

COUNCIL COMMENT

We are delighted at this promising start to creating not only good activity and involvement for our Youngsters, but also for the fact that families are linked through this initiative providing both fun and social contacts which can only be good for our community.

We hope, like us, you want to see such things expand in a beneficial way, but of course that can only come about through the involvement and leadership of enthusiastic community minded people, and the creation of resource and opportunity to exploit new initiatives and ideas.

For the Parish Councils’ part we are open minded as regards proposed initiatives, and where appropriate, and possible, will offer support. We are currently exploring what may be available through County Council Youth leadership training but there is a limit in that area. On that basis we are reliant on what we can do as a community using our own resource.

YES, A PLEA !

Change can only come from involvement. We need project ideas, leaders, and facilities to be developed. All will not come together, but an action plan from community input could get us there.

On three fronts :

· can you help personally – would you set up and run an activity group or team eg. Netball

· are you or someone you know, able to provide suitable space or premises to assist organisers with venues where groups may meet for the types of activity which have possible appeal to any age group in the Parish.

· another outdoor space for sport is desirable too – If the Lions Club growth is to be maintained we will need another pitch location or a Community Sports Club re established.

If you are stirred by a social vision for your Community, then please let your Councillors hear from you so we may work together in making and keeping Longwick-Cum-Ilmer a great place to live and be part of.