The Coronation Weekend!
On Sunday 7th May and Monday 8th May, Wimbledon and Putney Commons were delighted to host two events to mark the coronation of their Royal Highnesses, King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort which took place on Saturday 6th May.
The first event, on the Sunday evening, we joined in the national "Lighting up the Nation" with music, readings and the illumination of the Windmill.
The evening began with processions from two of the Commons’ War Memorials - Roehampton and Wimbledon Village - both led by a piper and drummer and joined other spectators already at the Windmill. On arrival at the Windmill everyone was given a candle to light and we were treated to an evening of music and readings from around the United Kingdom, bringing together and celebrating the four nations. To end the evening, the windmill was lit up in red, white and blue!
Details of the Order of Service can be found here.
On Monday 8 May, the Commons joined in the Big Help Out Day. As part of the celebrations, King Charles encouraged everyone to get out and help in their local community.
We were delighted to be supported by the Dons Local Action Group and the WISH Foundation along with Wandle the Womble who set off a Commons’ wide litter pick and provided some fantastic AFC Wimbledon prizes, including match tickets.
As well as showcasing our own volunteering opportunities here on the Commons, we invited other local volunteer-led organisations to join us and use the opportunity to advertise the work they do and how volunteers can help them. Details of how you can volunteers on the Commons can be found here, and of the organisations that joined us can be found here
Lighting up the Nation
A Candlelit Celebration
Held at
The Windmill, Wimbledon Common
on Sunday 7 May 2023
ORDER of SERVICE
Trumpet Voluntary
“The Prince of Denmark's March”, music by Jeremiah Clarke
Welcome Address
Diane Neil Mills, Chairman of the Conservators
First Reading - Northern Ireland
The Leveret by Michael Longley
Read by Peter Shortt, Conservator
“Danny Boy”
Choir Only
Written by Frederic Weatherly, set to the traditional Irish melody of
"Londonderry Air"
Second Reading - Wales
My Heart Belongs to Wales by Leighton Rees
Read by Angela Evans-Hill, Commons’ Staff
“Cwm Rhondda (Bread of Heaven)”
Written by William Williams, music by John Hughes. The title is taken from the Welsh name for the Rhondda Valley.
Third Reading - Scotland
Untitled – by Keilidh Ewan
Read by David Plastow, London Scottish Golf Club
“Highland Cathedral”
Written by Ulrich Roever and Michael Korb in 1982 for a
Highland games held in Germany.
Fourth Reading - England
Home Thoughts from Abroad by Robert Browning
Read by Sue Bucknall, Conservator
“Jerusalem”
Written by William Blake, a poem from the preface to Milton: A Poem
in Two Books. Music by Sir Hubert Parry
Note of Thanks
Rhys Torrington, Chairman Windmill Museum Trustees
God Save the King
The music for the service was kindly provided by:
The Choir of St Mary’s Church, Wimbledon
Robert Williams and Company, Pipes and Drums
Robert Cossins and Company, Brass
Julia White, Irish Whistle
WPCC are grateful to all those who made this evening’s event such a success including Stephen Hammond MP, Fleur Anderson MP, the Wimbledon Windmill Museum Trustees, the Conservators and staff of Wimbledon and Putney Commons, RG Jones Events, and for the support of the community, particularly Robert Holmes and Company. The music for the evening was kindly provided by the Choir of St Mary’s Church, Wimbledon; Robert Williams and Company Pipes and Drums; Robert Cossins’ Brass Quintet and Julia White for the beautiful Woodwind.
Our thanks to local photographer, Simon Joseph, for recording the evening with superb photographs.
The Big Help out Day!
VOLUNTEERING ON THE COMMONS
Volunteering has become an essential part of how WPCC are able to look after the Commons – last year, volunteers contributed over 8,000 hours over a range of activities! Every volunteering opportunity we can offer is a meaningful activity, contributing to the management and upkeep of the Commons, ensuring it remains a safe and clean environment for all our visitors.
All conservation volunteer groups and ‘hazardous’ activities such as volunteering for activities in the Beverely Brook are supervised by WPCC staff but general litter picking is a self-led activity. Volunteering is managed by our Conservation and Engagement Officer, Peter Haldane.
The range of volunteering opportunities we offer are as follows:
Sunday morning scrub bashers
The Sunday Morning Scrub-bashers are the longest running of our volunteer groups, starting back in 2015. The Scrub-bashers meet on two Sunday mornings each month, and spend two hours cutting back the invasive scrub on the Commons’ heathland. Without them, the heathland would soon disappear under the cover of woodland succession. Tools and refreshments are provided.
Volunteer litter picking
We have a large “silent” army of volunteer litter-pickers who help out in their own time and pick up litter at a time that suits. Perhaps when out walking with family or exercising the dog. We can provide bags and litter sticks if needed.
Mid-week volunteer estate team
The Commons’ mid-week volunteer estate team are a truly flexible group of volunteers who could be involved in any number of activities including painting the stables, scrub bashing and litter picking. Tools and refreshments are provided.
Beverley Brook volunteer group
The Commons’ Beverley Brook volunteer group meet every three weeks on a Wednesday morning and spend up to three hours removing litter from the Wimbledon Common section of the Beverley Brook. As the brook can be quite treacherous in places with hidden objects, deep water and silt, this group is always supervised by a member of the Commons’ staff. Tools and refreshments are provided.
Wildlife Garden Volunteers
We have recently started work on the small wildlife garden in front of the Ranger’s Office. The pond has been built and planting will start soon. The garden will provide a microcosm of the Commons and will be suitable for those whose mobility may be limited, or for children for educational purposes. We are now seeking volunteers who have experience in maintaining a wildlife garden to help us both with planting and on-going regular maintenance. Is this something you could help with?
Duke of Edinburgh Award
The Commons have been involved with the DofE Award since 2015, offering opportunities for the volunteering section of the award. Most who undertake this on the Commons are usually completing the Bronze award and, as they are under 16, will generally involve litter-picking. This activity would need to be carried out under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
Events Volunteers
Throughout the year, a variety of public events are held on the Commons and we often need volunteers to help with things such as advance preparation, assistance on the day – which could be marshalling, handing out leaflets or collecting donations at events such as the Open Day, Carols at the Windmill, or some of the larger Friends events. We also need volunteers who have some expertise in identifying flora and fauna who can help on our nature walks.
Notice Board Maintenance
We have 25 large noticeboards across the Commons and these need constant attention as notices are pinned up and taken down on a regular basis, perhaps old staples removed and touching up with some paint from time to time. We are now looking for volunteers who could take responsibility for either all, or some, of the noticeboards and make sure they are kept neat and tidy, or to put up new notices as needed. This role would require a level of commitment and possibly short-notice availability, particularly for putting up new posters with a few days notice. Is this something you could help with? Necessary equipment would be provided.
Single visit volunteer groups
We can offer the opportunity for local businesses, organisations and schools to come along and spend some time volunteering with us.
This could involve any number of activities depending on the time of year but usually focuses on litter-picking or scrub-bashing.
If your interested in volunteering at the Commons, please contact Pete at peter@wpcc.org.uk or on 020 8788 7655.
Organisations that joined us for the Big Help Out!
https://www.wimbledonwindmill.org.uk/
Explore the fascinating history of Wimbledon Windmill Museum by volunteering with us! Our beloved landmark has stood on Wimbledon Common for over two centuries, and we are entirely operated by passionate volunteers who are committed to preserving the site's heritage. Volunteering with us provides an excellent opportunity to give back to the local community while indulging your passion for history and heritage. You'll have the chance to meet like-minded individuals, welcome visitors, and make their experience unforgettable. Our Museum offers something for everyone, whether they are interested in wind power, mills or the families who once called the Windmill home.
With a commitment of just three hours a month at weekends during the summer, plus social events, it's easy to get involved and make a difference. We provide full training and guidance, so no prior experience is necessary. And if you're interested in other aspects of running the Museum, such as our education programmes and children's activities, let us know, and we can involve you in those areas as well. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to volunteer with us and explore the rich social history of the Wimbledon Windmill Museum. Contact us or speak to one of our volunteers today to learn more and get started!
MEDICAL LIFE LINES UKRAINE
https://www.medicallifelines.org.uk/
Co-founded by Aliya Aralbayeva and Dan Whitehead, both Wimbledon residents, and supported by Gerry and Sally Strahan from Putney, Medical Life Lines Ukraine was created to provide a life line to Ukrainian hospitals in need.
22 aid filled, reconditioned ambulances have already been taken by volunteer drivers to war-torn areas of Ukraine and we continue to fund raise for the purchase of more ambulances, much needed generators and vital medical supplies as well as clothes and even food for the rescue dogs! And of course, we are also very grateful for donations of actual aid – a shopping list can be provided.
To ensure that everything driven out gets to the right place, we liaise with the Ukrainian Ministry of Health which supplies the appropriate destinations. Photographs of the handing over of ambulances and aid are truly heart warming – but, until the unlawful invasion by Russia comes to an end, we will continue with our endeavours.
Do let us know if you would like to support MLLU in any way – fundraising activities at schools, sports clubs, community events etc. And of course, we’d love to hear from potential drivers – do get in touch on any of the above by emailing ambulance2ukraine@gmail.com.
Organisations joining us here today!
WIMBLEDON SOCIETY
https://wimbledonsociety.org.uk/
Founded in 1903, and run by volunteers, the Wimbledon Society is committed to safeguard the amenities of the area, to promote an interest in local history and wildlife, and to preserve objects of historical and natural interest. We need volunteers who can help with the following:
Publications Manager: Help sell and manage our range of books and maps via our online shop, at the Museum and Fairs. Microsoft Office skills, and an interest in local history needed. Training and support will be given. Primarily working from home, a few hours per week, with occasional visits to our Museum for meetings and stock management. Contact publications@wimbledonsociety.org.uk for more information
Fundraising Manager: sought to identify grants and funding sources and submit applications for them; find new sponsors and increase our corporate membership and identify other fundraising activities such as social events and visits. Ongoing help and support will be provided. You would be working from home for a few hours per week with some local meetings. Microsoft Office skills are important and it would be an advantage to live in or near Wimbledon. Contact jane.healey@wimbledonsociety.org.uk if you would like more information and please send your CV to the same address.
Archivist/Records Manager: to organise, retain and index our key documents, and organizational records. Experience of indexing, and organising collections of documents, both paper and online. Knowledge of data protection and freedom of information legislation. Knowledge of appropriate open source software for archives/ records management. Liaison with the Board Secretary and Chairs of Committees. Contact christine.goodair@wimbledonsociety.org.uk for more information.
Wimbledon in Sporting History (WiSH)
Wimbledon in Sporting History is a heritage charity that preserves and safeguards memorabilia and the history of Wimbledon Football Club, AFC Wimbledon and other sports connected with the local area.
If you have some time, the dedication and are interested in joining our friendly and inclusive team as a Volunteer, please get in touch with Chris Hutchinson, Head of Volunteering for a chat / further information. Contact email: info@wimbledoninsportinghistory.com
Workshop 305 CIC provides arts and crafts services to adults living with complex neuro-diverse and physical support needs. We’re keen to engage volunteers who have an interest in the arts and crafts both during the workshops and across lunchtimes.
STEM4
stem4 are delighted to host the Wimbledon Wishing Trees on Wimbledon Common throughout weekends in December. We invite visitors to the common to write a message of love, hope and positivity on a tag attached to a beautiful bauble to hang on the trees in return for a donation to support the charity's work. We would love to have your help to join our volunteer team and bring festive joy to our wonderful Community. Please contact: fundraising@stem4.org.uk
WIMBLEDON GUILD
https://www.wimbledonguild.co.uk/
Volunteer with Wimbledon Guild and you'll get so much in return!
Wimbledon Guild is a community charity in Merton offering practical help and support, so no one ever has to face life’s challenges alone. Last year we supported more than 3,400 people across the borough. Our volunteers are amazing and play an important part in helping us deliver our services. We welcome volunteers of all ages, backgrounds and experiences, and we want to make sure that our volunteers reflect the unique and diverse community we support.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a hobby away from a busy lifestyle or work, learn a new skill, or stay active and improve your mental health, we’d love to hear from you.
We believe that volunteering should fit around your lifestyle, and we can help you find a volunteer role based on how often you would like to volunteer, where you’d like to spend your time and the type of role you’re interested in.
How can you get involved? We have the following volunteering opportunities:
Depending on your interests and availability, our Volunteer Programme team can recommend the right volunteer role for you. We'll be here to support you throughout your volunteer journey from induction through to regular catch ups and volunteer socials. To find out more about volunteering for Wimbledon Guild:
Email volunteer@wimbledonguild.co.uk Call 020 8946 0735 Visit www.wimbledonguild.co.uk/volunteering
Community café
Befriending
Practical Support
Community Garden
Events & Fundraising
Social Activities
Exercise Classes
Administration
Talking Therapies Counsellors and Therapists
DONS LOCAL ACTION GROUP
We are a local network of volunteers initially formed in response to the COVID-19 crisis and now permanent across Merton, Wandsworth and Kingston. We aim to help those in our local community to fight poverty and offer support. We provide food parcels, household goods, furniture and appliances. We also offer laptops through our Keep Kids Connected initiative for children who do not have access to online learning. For further information please visit donslocalaction.org
MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT
Macmillan Merton raise money for local Macmillan Cancer Support projects at our hospitals St George’s, The Royal Marsden, Epsom and St Helier and Kingston. These projects range from funding the training of Macmillan nurses and specialists to the Ambulatory Oncology Day Centre at St George’s which we funded in full. All these projects are for the direct benefit of our community. We raise money by holding Wine and Dine evenings at local restaurants, Quiz Nights, BBQs, Celebrity and Bridge lunches, individual pursuits and regular ladies clothes sample sales at The Dog and Fox.
Our next event is a Coronation May Fair at Wimbledon Rugby Football Club, Barham Road, SW20 0ET on Wednesday 10th May from 10am - 2.30pm.
We would welcome willing volunteers to help at all our fund raising events. If you are interested, please contact us on macmillanmerton.com
SCOUTS
Would you like to make a real difference to young people’s lives and have a positive impact on society?
Wimbledon and Wandle Scout District is a local arm of the United Kingdom's Scout Association. We have 18 Scout Groups providing a vibrant mix of age-appropriate everyday adventure activities. Most of our groups have a full complement of Beaver, Cub & Scout sections along with Explorer Units & a Network section at district level.
Wimbledon and Wandle Scout District is in the Scout County of Greater London South West. Geographically we cover the south-western quadrant of Greater London encompassing Wimbledon, Mitcham, Morden, Merton Park, Raynes Park and Motspur Park. Our district has approximately 1800 members including 4-25 year olds and adult volunteers.
Being a leader in Scouting is hugely rewarding and is great fun. It will give you the chance to try new activities and experiences and develop your own confidence and skills such as leadership, team working and planning, which will be of value to you and employers.
No previous experience or skills are required. There is a range of roles available and any necessary training will be provided. All you need is an enthusiasm to help Scouting actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.
The 19th Wimbledon Scout Group, based in Cottenham Park Road, are here today, come and find out more about us and have a go at some Scouting activities!
WALK AND TALK MOVEMENT - LET’S WALK AND TALK TOGETHER
Free and fun weekly community walk and talks are coming to Wimbledon Common.
The Walk and Talk Movement wewalkandtalk.org is on a mission to bring communities together every Saturday at 10.30am. Walk and talks are a chance for all generations to take a stroll, chat, meet friends and neighbours, make new friends and enjoy their local area and green spaces together. From older adults to young children, from buggies to beagles – everybody can join in.
Come along to the launch of our new Wimbledon Common Walk and Talk on 13th May at 10.30am from the War Memorial on the corner of Parkside and The Causeway (SW19 5AZ), and enjoy refreshments afterwards at Cannizaro House.
No booking, no reservations, just turn up on the 13th May (or any Saturday after that) and you will get a very warm welcome. Walk and Talks are inclusive, accessible, fun and friendly. You can walk at any pace you like and we also link up with fun local activities.
The Wimbledon and Putney Commons and The Wimbledon Society and also supporting us with some great walks around Wimbledon Common and Village....and if you can help The Walk and Talk Movement by supporting a walk once a month for an hour or so please e-mail info@thewalkandtalkmovement.org ...any help is really valued...
Thousands of participants have already enjoyed Walk and Talks across their local area.
WIMBLEDON COMMON NATURE CLUB
https://wimbledoncommonnatureclub.wordpress.com/
The Wimbledon Common Nature Club are looking for volunteers to help run the club for children 6 to14 years old.
We meet on the first Sunday of each month 10am to 12 noon. A different session each month, Nature Walks, Craft Sessions, Tree ID, Mini Best Safari, Pond Dipping, examining Owl pellets, making Bird Feeders, Den Building and so many other activities.
We are looking for general help with registering families and assisting them. Also someone with presenting skills, maybe an ex-teacher to give a good start to our sessions. We are all about introducing children to nature, so that they will want to care for all life on earth . If you can help, please contact Auriel on 07837910072 or e-mail: auriel.glanville@btinternet.com
WIMBLEDON UNION OF RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATIONS
Wimbledon Union of Residents’ Associations (WURA) is a forum for about 20 Residents' Associations in Wimbledon whose membership collectively is over 6,000 households. We meet quarterly to share news and provide support and information and lobby on behalf of the group on issues of common interest.
Residents’ associations represent local neighbourhoods, they help in putting forward shared views and looking out for the interests of local people. If you don't belong to one, ask WURA and we can tell you if there is one for your area and who to contact. Clive@inlocum.co.uk