Judges' general comments on the 2008 competition.
Without exception, the judges were pleased with the standard of entries in 2008 - particularly those of communities that entered for the first time. Competitors' written submissions were most thought provoking. The judges found their visits inspiring, especially since villages are actively focussed on opportunities rather than problems.
With the exception of Buckland St. Mary (overall winners are barred by the rules of the competition from applying in the following year) the judges would encourage all 2008 entrants to re-enter in 2009. There is plenty of capacity and scope for more entries and more awards in future years.
The judges were happy to find evidence that communities found that there was considerable value in simply entering - in that preparation for the competition was valuable in itself.
Some common themes emerged in the judging - problems with local housing needs, post office/shops, car parking/traffic volumes and public transport problems. Encouragement was found in villages seeking to engage a wider community to mutual advantage, increasing environmental awareness, more engagement with the business community and more flexibility in venue for community events.
The judges wish it to be known that they are available to all prospective entrants to give suggestions on how entries and presentations can be most effectively made. In the first instance contact should be made with the Somerset competition co-ordinator - Richard Dixon.
Last year's overall winner for Somerset was the Leigh on Mendip Community Activity Project. The Somerset award gave them automatic entry to the Calor Village of the Year, England, Competition. The national competition judges visited them on the 24th April and the national judges have made 38 other judging visits during the course of the year. The results of the national competition will be announced on the 2nd December and everybody involved with the Somerset competition is confidently wishing the Leigh on Mendip Community Activity Project every success in bringing away at least one award (preferably that of the Overall Winner for England!).