How you can make your HVS subscription count

What we do

Established in 1971 the Hurst Village Society (HVS) has been a powerful voice in the local community. We work to fight major planning applications that would harm the character of the parish, and campaign for road safety measures to enable people to enjoy walking and riding along Hurst's lanes and roads.

We also run projects to improve the environment for wildlife and maintain the natural beauty and biodiversity of the entire parish. These have included planting a new hedge, running a hedge laying course and tree planting. The HVS also organises social events and activities, such as the annual dinner and dance, and the archery competition at the Horse Show.

Why we need more members

When we represent Hurst, we need to demonstrate that we speak for a large percentage of the village. At planning appeals, we are asked whom we represent and we can quote the number of paid up households. For example with the School Road appeal imminent, this is a particularly important time to have a strong membership.

How you can help

Every paid up membership counts. For just £5 a year you can help us serve the village by increasing our strength in representing your village in matters such as planning appeals, protecting the environment and above all making Hurst a village we can all be proud of.

The Committee has two new members this year, Eddie Coe and Nick Willson, and there is room for more people who are interested in taking an active role in the village. If you would like to join the Committee, please contact the Chairman, Nick Willson - or any other committee member.

Easy to pay

Just complete the standing order and send it to Eddie Coe, Membership Secretary, 4 Lodge Road, Whistley Green, Hurst, Berkshire, RG10 0EH. Alternatively if you prefer, you can fill in the form and pay by cash to your local committee member.

For the good of everyone in the village
join us and make your voice count!

After three industrious years, David Shapland has stepped down from his role as Chairman of Hurst Village Society. He remains committed to Hurst and, thankfully, has agreed to stay on the committee to keep a watchful eye on planning matters.

Following in David's footsteps, Nick Willson a resident of Hurst since 1993 has been elected Chairman. He is married to Liz and they have two young daughters. Nick writes: "I went to my first committee meeting in March and returned home as Chairman. How did that happen? Actually, I've enjoyed living in Hurst for nearly 10 years now, so I'm delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to the Society and to Hurst in general." Nick has 15 years experience in the IT industry, most recently as a commercial manager with Oracle at Thames Valley Park in Reading.

During David Shapland's tenure, the Village Society has successfully dealt with a number of issues to ensure the character of Hurst. Among many other achievements, these include campaigning against the original and expansive plans for the Dorndon House and Bonhomie Court developments, and leading the argument on the unsustainability of the Millgate Homes plans for development on School Road.

He also successfully lobbied to reduce the speed limit through the village from 40 to 30 mph, and helped to develop the Parish Design Statement, in conjunction with Hurst Parish Council.

David still has the Denis Eastwood Library in his garage, and looks forward to removing it to regain valuable space for his sports car. The Village Society Committee would like to express their appreciation of his hard work and dedication by thanking David (and his family!) for the commitment he has shown to the role.

The next edition of the Newsletter will be published early in June and will contain information about the Hurst Horse Show and Country Fayre later that month, and the Horticultural and Cottage Garden Society's Show in August. All items for publication should be sent to the editor, Wendy Tobitt before 21 May by e-mail, or call 0118 934 xxxx.

Wendy has given notice to the Committee that after three years at the keyboard for the Village Society, she will be happy to hand over the editor's role during the next 12 months. Anyone who is interested editing the Newsletter should contact Wendy.

The next HVS Committee meeting will take place on Thursday 8 May. If you have any issues which you would like the Village Society to consider at this meeting, please contact one of the committee members.