Felsted has won the title of RCCE Village Of The Year.

The award was presented at the Rural Communities Council of Essex (RCCE) AGM and awards night, by David Boyle JP DL, President of RCCE. The announcement of the winner was said to be the “climax of the evening”.

All who presented to the judges when they visited the Parish two weeks ago were invited to the awards evening. However, due to existing commitments, some of the presenters were unavailable to attend. Cllr John Moore and Cllr Anna McNicoll therefore joined two of the presenters, Cllr Andy Bennett and Diane Smith, our Parish Clerk, to hear the results and receive the award on behalf of the Parish.

Alongside a certificate and a cheque for £500, a new shield was presented in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the award. We shall forever be first on this prestigious award.

The award was described as being won by only the best villages, demonstrating that they are vibrant, energetic and caring.

Pictured above are Graham Harvey, Chair of Felsted Parish Council, celebrating the news with members of the Council and residents of Felsted.

The award belongs to all those in the Parish, both individuals and groups, often acting in a voluntary capacity, who work so hard and do so much to make the Parish a lovely place to live. Congratulations to everyone.

We will be marking the award through signs in the village, but would like to hear your ideas for how we should spend the £500 prize.

You can read more coverage from the event in the local press here.