Woodley Town Council has proudly raised the Armed Forces Day flag in recognition of the service and sacrifice of the UK’s Armed Forces.
The flag-raising took place on Friday [27 June] at the Town Council offices, ahead of Armed Forces Day 2025, which falls on Saturday [28 June]. This year’s event also commemorates the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.
Each June, Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for communities across the UK to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community from currently serving troops to service families, veterans, reservists and cadets.
“Armed Forces Day is an important occasion for us to publicly recognise the courage, dedication and service of the Armed Forces. By raising the flag here in Woodley, we reaffirm our respect and gratitude for those who serve and have served. It’s a small but meaningful gesture of our community’s enduring support,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk.
Flags are flown nationwide each year in the lead-up to Armed Forces Day to demonstrate unity and appreciation.
Woodley Town Council will host a VJ Day commemoration on 15 August. Further details will be shared soon on our website and social media channels.
Woodley Town Council was pleased to see strong community interest at the recent Woodley Carnival, where many residents visited the joint MyJourney and Woodley Town Council Cycling & Walking Stall. The stall provided an opportunity to share plans to promote ‘active travel’ encouraging more walking and cycling to help reduce car journeys in and around the town.
The stall proved highly popular, with 214 residents taking part in the ‘spin the wheel’ game and many more stopping by to discuss local safer cycling routes and events. A number of enthusiastic cyclists volunteered to ‘test drive’ new draft safer cycling routes being developed as part of Woodley’s local cycling network.
“It was great to see Woodley folk engaging with active travel, and I was pleased (and surprised!) that a number of cyclists have taken our draft local cycle routes to test drive and provide feedback,” said Cllr June Taylor, a member of the Council’s Cycling & Walking Sub-Committee.
Testing the Routes
The Council has asked volunteers to cycle their chosen route and provide feedback on:
Whether the instructions are clear and easy to follow
Any hazards encountered, such as potholes, broken signs, tricky junctions, or flooded off-road paths
The duration of the route from end to end
Any improvements or alternative suggestions for the route.
Important Feedback
In addition, the Council is encouraging wider community input on how to make Woodley more bike-friendly. Residents are invited to share their ideas on:
The availability and location of cycle racks, secure stores, repair stands, and pumps
Signage for both cyclists and walkers
Safety considerations such as lighting, road speed limits, and cycling education
Barriers to owning a bike, and challenges for children cycling
Any other suggestions related to cycling infrastructure or experience.
A spokesperson for MyJourney said: “We had a great day. We loved speaking with people who are genuinely interested in active travel. Many residents also spoke to us about the various local events MyJourney organises for the community.”
Get on Your Bike
We were encouraged by the level of engagement and are keen to involve even more local people as this work continues.
Whether you’re a regular cyclist or just thinking about getting back on your bike, we’d love to hear from you. Help us shape a more cycle-friendly Woodley by testing a route or sending us your ideas.
Please contact Cllr June Taylor for more information: [email protected]
Hosted by Waingels, young gardeners from Woodley’s primary schools came together last week for the annual Year 1 School Tray Garden Competition. This year’s event had a “Kindness” theme, which inspired budding horticulturists from Highwood, Rivermead, and Beechwood Primary School to get creative and work as a team to make a themed garden that represented friendship and working together.
Organised by Jackie Andrews as part of the Woodley Cluster Project and Amrit Virdee from Waingels, and with plants kindly donated by Winnersh Garden Centre, the competition saw pupils from different schools pairing up in teams of four to design and build their tray gardens in an event hosted by Waingels. The focus was on imagination and teamwork, with each group putting their own spin on the “Kindness” element.
The children’s trays featured fantastic storytelling and playful additions like Stickman figures, bridges, treehouses, and swings, adding fun and imagination to their miniature gardens. Ponds, shell areas, and gravel paths brought the soil and connected the spaces, showcasing movement and fun, echoing the joy of outdoor play.
Judges Cassie King, PR Officer from British Garden Centres, who owns the Winnersh store, Woodley Town Mayor Cllr David Bragg, and Brenda Milton from Woodley Flower Club had the tough job of picking the winners, looking for originality, storytelling and how well the children worked together. Parents were invited to join the presentation and applaud the young gardeners at a special awards ceremony led by Louise Quinell, Head of Beechwood Primary School.
Winning Gardens
The results were:
1st Place: “The Happy Garden” (Beechwood and Rivermead)
2nd Place: “The Features Garden” (Beechwood and Highwood)
Teamwork Award: “The Beautiful Adventure Park Garden” (Beechwood and Rivermead)
Every child who took part went home with a certificate packet of seeds to sow at home, courtesy of British Garden Centres, to help them keep growing their love of gardening. The top three teams also took home plants to grow in their own outdoor spaces. All of the tray gardens went on to be displayed at the Woodley Carnival, alongside entries from the experienced members of the Woodley Flower Club.
Judges impressed by creativity
Cllr David Bragg, Woodley Town Mayor,was impressed with the children’s efforts, commenting: “It was a real pleasure to see the incredible creativity and teamwork from our young gardeners. Each tray garden told a unique story of kindness and friendship, which made judging both a joy and a real challenge. The passion and imagination displayed by Highwood, Rivermead, and Beechwood children were truly inspiring.”
Cassie King, PR Officer at British Garden Centres, said, “It is always such a joy to watch the children’s ideas take shape in their tray gardens. Their creativity shone through in every detail, and it’s lovely seeing how much fun they had working together, sharing ideas, and getting their hands dirty. I hope these children will carry that enthusiasm with them, whether it’s in their own gardens at home or in future projects at school.”
Jackie Andrews of the Woodley Cluster Project said, “The children did so well again this year, creating really beautiful gardens. They all enjoyed thinking about what they do in their gardens and how you can use gardens to help you feel happy. Everyone worked with enthusiasm, and the atmosphere for the whole day was one of joy! I would like to thank everyone involved in the day – our judges, Waingels for hosting the day and running the workshops, the Year 1 teachers for making the arrangements so that their pupils could take part and Winnersh Garden Centre for donating all the plants, compost and prizes, without which we simply would not be able to run this project.”
A rising star in the world of kayaking is making waves this year, thanks in part to a grant from Woodley Town Council.
Ruth Shephard, a dedicated young athlete from Woodley, has already had a standout season in 2025, competing in both sprint and marathon disciplines across the UK and Europe. With the support of the Council’s grant, she has been able to upgrade her equipment, attend specialist training camps, and compete internationally, all of which have contributed to her rapid progression in the sport.
“This season started with two new boats, one for sprint and one for marathon, which has been a game changer. The two disciplines have different demands, and having the right equipment has made my training and racing so much more effective,” said Ruth.
In February, she attended an intensive training camp at the Montebello Resort in Portugal. “That experience helped me improve not just my technique on the water, but also my communication and overall approach to the sport.”
A major highlight came at the German Marathon Nationals, where she earned a podium finish, coming third in the Under 16 long course (18km) and sixth in the Under 18 short course (3.5km). “Thank you for awarding me this grant to help get me to this event,” she said. “It was such an important step in my development as an athlete.”
April saw her racing in the season’s first sprint regatta, where she clinched first place in the Girls B 1000m K1 event, winning by a commanding 10 seconds. She continued her momentum in June, coming third in the 500m event in the Girls A-B combined category.
Looking ahead, she has her sights set on the national championships this July. “I’m training hard with the aim of competing in both Under 14 and Under 16 categories, and I’m in talks with my coach about the potential for international selection,” added Ruth.
Grants
For more information about the Council’s grants and how they support local individuals and groups, please visit the Grants page on our website.
Woodley Town Council is pleased to announce the installation of a new delegate microphone and audio loop system to improve accessibility and engagement at council meetings
This new system is a significant step forward in making Council meetings more inclusive and accessible to all members of our community, especially those with hearing impairments. The built-in audio loop technology allows attendees to fully participate in meetings by enhancing sound clarity. Residents can use their own hearing devices with the neck loop receiver or simply plug in standard headphones to benefit from clearer audio during the meetings.
In addition to improving in-room accessibility, the system significantly enhances the sound quality of live-streamed and recorded meetings available on our YouTube channel.
“We’re committed to making our Council meetings open and accessible to everyone in Woodley. This new system ensures that all residents, regardless of hearing ability, can now experience clearer audio of our meetings, whether attending in person or watching from home.” Said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk.
Residents can attend all Council committee meetings in person at the Oakwood Centre or watch them online. For more information about upcoming meeting dates, please visit our website.
We are saddened to announce the recent passing of former Councillor Coling Lawley, who passed away over the weekend.
Cllr Lawley was a dedicated councillor and a much-valued member of the Woodley community. He served as Deputy Town Mayor from 2008 to 2010 and went on to serve as Town Mayor from 2010 to 2012.
“I was sad to hear about the passing of Coling, someone who I had many discussions and debates on a variety of matters. Whilst we were in different political parties those discussions were always done with integrity and good humour with no hint of any animosity between us. We also shared participation many committees over the years, especially the Town Centre Management Initiative, and anyone attending them would be left in no doubt of his passion for Woodley. To me he was very much ‘old school’ as far as behaviour was concerned compared to what is happening now and was always polite even if he vehemently disagreed with you. Everything he did was focussed on Woodley. He was a credit to his party,” said Cllr Keith Baker, Woodley Town Council Leader.
Throughout his years of service, he brought dedication and a genuine passion for the town he loved.
“Coling Lawley was a well-known resident of Woodley. For many years he was the manager and pharmacist at Boots in Woodley town centre, where his help was much appreciated by residents. He joined the Liberal Democrats and was encouraged to stand as a Councillor on both Woodley Town Council and Wokingham Borough Council, following which, for a short time, he became Leader of Wokingham Borough Council before retiring from both his working and public life,” said Cllr Beth Rowland.
“Coling in his younger years was a very social person and loved to mix with residents. As he became older, he was not as active, but we were all very grateful for his friendship, wisdom and support. Rest in Peace Coling,” she added.
Most recently, Cllr Lawley joined the Council to celebrate the opening of its new History Wall and Coronation Orchard Garden. He had previously gifted historical maps of Woodley, which are on display at the Oakwood Centre.
“Coling was a kind and committed councillor who gave so much to Woodley during his time on the Council and beyond. His contributions, both as a councillor, Mayor and as a community member, will not be forgotten,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council’s Town Clerk.
Out of respect for Coling, we will be flying the Town Council flag at half-mast.
Woodley Town Council extends its heartfelt condolences to Coling’s family and friends at this difficult time.
Coling Lawley at the opening of the Council’s Coronation Orchard Garden, greeted by Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg
Woodley Town Council proudly hosted a well-attended Annual Town Meeting on 22 May at the Alan Cornish Theatre, bringing together local residents, volunteer groups, and councillors for an inspiring evening of community engagement and recognition.
With presentations from local volunteer groups, a detailed review of the Town Council’s work, and the highly anticipated Community Heroes Awards, the meeting served as a vibrant reflection of the town’s community pride and commitment to public service.
A Meeting for the People
Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg, opened the meeting with a warm welcome, emphasising that the Annual Town Meeting is unique in its purpose – it is not a council meeting, but one held specifically for local electors to engage with and question their council. It offers a rare chance for residents to hear first-hand about the work of the council and other organisations making a difference in Woodley.
Celebrating Local Volunteers
The evening spotlighted three vital volunteer organisations: Woodley Adopt A Street (WASP), Woodley Volunteer Centre (WVC), and The Link Visiting Scheme (LVS).
Sheila Flower of WASP described the group as “a fantastic community of people from across Woodley, of all ages,” who work tirelessly to keep the town clean. She appealed for more young volunteers and involvement from schools, adding, “I’d like to say a big thank you to all of our volunteers and the people that support us, including the Town Council for its continued support.”
From WVC, co-ordinator Karen Todd reflected on the Centre’s 43-year history, which has evolved to focus on transporting elderly and vulnerable residents to medical appointments. “It’s a service run by local people for local people who need help,” she stated, noting the urgent need for more volunteer drivers as they are now turning new clients away and they want to be able to help more people in Woodley.
Marjie Walker, CEO of LVS, shared stories illustrating the emotional impact of their work, such as the touching friendship between an elderly resident and a young volunteer. “We support 95 elderly people in Woodley to help combat loneliness and isolation,” she said, while also making a plea for volunteers to serve as companions, drivers, and cooks, especially for community meals like their annual Christmas Day dinner.
Council Updates and Forward Thinking
The Deputy Town Clerk, Matthew Filmore, presented a comprehensive overview of the council’s responsibilities, highlighting the distinctions between Woodley Town Council and Wokingham Borough Council.
While the Town Clerk, Kevin Murray, highlighted recent council achievements, including the Coronation Orchard in Woodford Park, the installation of a History Wall in the Oakwood Centre, and the hosting of events such as D-Day and VE Day commemorations. Exciting future projects include:
A new Youth Services Strategy
The Woodley Cycling Network for improved walking and cycling routes
Planned upgrades to the theatre and Woodford Park Leisure Centre
A Resident’s Consultation to shape how the local precept – currently £2.05 per week for a Band D property – is spent.
Community Q&A
Residents were invited to raise questions and concerns. Topics included:
VE Day event publicity – Cllr Bragg explained the short notice due to lack of allocated budget but thanked staff for their efforts in putting on an event at such short notice.
Leisure Centre improvements – More surveys are underway before final decisions can be made or a timeline produced.
Local issues – Lack of parking at Bulmershe Leisure Centre, misuse of public bins, antisocial behaviour, and tree root damage were noted for referral to Wokingham Borough Council.
E-scooter use in the town centre – As a nationwide concern, residents were urged by councillors to report incidents to the police to support stronger national regulation.
Cycling in the town centre – The Council is currently discussing the introduction of new signage to address concerns. However, residents were reminded that the Town Council does not have any legal or enforcement powers to stop individuals from cycling in the area. As such, any incidents should be reported directly to the police.
Cllr Bill Soane encouraged residents to check planning applications online and engage early, explaining that Town Council only makes recommendations, not final decisions.
Always Open for Engagement
Cllr Bragg concluded the session by inviting residents to attend council meetings, either in person or via the Council’s YouTube channel, and to contact their councillors directly with questions or concerns.
Community Heroes Honoured
The night culminated in the 23rd Annual Community Heroes Awards, celebrating individuals and groups who go above and beyond for Woodley:
Volunteer of the Year – Debbie Willis (SHARE Woodley) Debbie was praised for her tireless work collecting food surplus and managing operations at the food waste charity, which supports 85–100 households each week.
Neighbour of the Year – Warren White Known for his kindness and willingness to help neighbours and his work with charities like Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), Warren was honoured for embodying true community spirit.
Voluntary Group of the Year – Woodley Detachment Army Cadets Recognised for mentoring young people and supporting community initiatives like the British Legion Poppy Appeal and local food banks.
Climate Champions – Woodley Adopt A Street (WASP) Acknowledged for their environmental efforts, WASP volunteers help keep the town clean and attractive for residents.
Special Recognition Award – Kick Twist Cheerleading The 15-member Woodley team represented the UK in Florida and brought home two awards. Mayor Bragg said he would personally deliver their award.
Mayor’s Outstanding Contribution Award – Tony Roper The former Town Crier of 30 years was honoured by former Mayor Cllr Juliet Anderson for his decades of service and volunteering.
“This award is truly well deserved by someone who has devoted so much of his time to helping others. Today, we celebrate the one and only Tony Roper for his remarkable 30 years as Woodley’s Town Crier. It’s a real honour to recognise Tony’s dedication and to say a heartfelt thank you on behalf of the whole community,” said Cllr Anderson.
Tony expressed his gratitude: “It’s been a real privilege to serve as Woodley’s Town Crier. Of the 52 years I’ve lived here, 30 have been spent not only as Town Crier but also volunteering in many ways. I encourage everyone – if you’re able – to get involved and support this amazing community.”
Together in Celebration
The evening ended with a drink’s reception, giving attendees a chance to connect and celebrate their shared pride in being part of the Woodley community.
For more information on council meetings, local initiatives, or how to get involved, please explore our website, get in touch with us, or contact your local councillor.
Woodley Town Council is proud to announce that, on World Bee Day, it has been honoured with a prestigious Bee Friendly Trust Award in recognition of its bee-friendly parks and ongoing commitment to supporting pollinators and biodiversity.
Launched by the Bee Friendly Trust in 2021, the Bee Friendly Trust Awards highlight and celebrate outstanding efforts by communities across the UK to protect bees and other vital pollinators. The awards commend:
Habitat-forming initiatives that create safe, diverse homes for wildlife
Collaborative efforts that expand pollinator pathways across urban and rural spaces
The individuals and teams making real change on the ground.
“The Bee Friendly Trust was established to create sustainable, nature-rich spaces in which bees and other pollinators can thrive, especially in urban environments where green corridors are disappearing. This award is a symbol of what can be achieved when local authorities, staff, and the community come together for the planet,” said a spokesperson for the Bee Friendly Trust.
Leading with Climate Commitment
Woodley’s recognition is a result of dedicated and inspiring work from our amenities team and local voluntary group Friends of Woodford Park, whose collective efforts keep our public parks pollinator-friendly spaces. The award acknowledges their efforts and the Council’s broader environmental action in response to the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the team and the Friends of Woodford Park, whose dedication and hard work keep our parks truly bee friendly. This award is a tribute to their efforts and the values we hold as a Council committed to climate action and biodiversity,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council’s Town Clerk.
“I’m absolutely delighted that the Council has received this award, especially on World Bee Day,” said Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg. “It’s a great reminder of just how important bees are to our environment and everyday lives. This award is something to celebrate, but it’s also a nudge to us all to keep doing our bit to protect pollinators and tackle the challenges of climate change.”
According to the Bee Friendly Trust, bees and other pollinators are vital to healthy ecosystems and food production, yet their populations are under serious threat. Factors such as habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change have caused significant declines across the UK and beyond. The Trust highlights the urgent need for more pollinator-friendly spaces, particularly in urban areas, to help restore biodiversity and support climate resilience at the local level, which Woodley Town Council is trying to achieve through initiatives such as wildflower planting, reduced mowing schedules, and beehives at the Reading Road allotments.
“Woodley Town Council remains firmly committed to taking meaningful climate action, and this award strengthens our resolve to create greener spaces, support biodiversity, and help build a more sustainable future for all,” adds Kevin.
Buzzing Bee Trail
We now have an exciting Bee Trail across Woodford Park. During the May Half Term, children can collect a quiz sheet from our reception to complete using the facts around the trail. Once completed, head back to our reception to claim a prize (sweets and a packet of bee/butterfly wildflower seeds).
The five-year roadmap will deliver targeted support, safe spaces and strengthen local opportunities for young people to thrive in Woodley
Woodley Town Council recently adopted a new and forward-thinking Youth Services Strategyat its Full Council meeting in May, setting out an exciting roadmap to support and empower young people in the community over the next five years.
This responsive and youth-focused strategy, which runs from 2025 to 2030, replaces the previous Strategy for Youth Services 2022–2027 and reflects a renewed commitment to the holistic development of children and young people across Woodley.
A Fresh Start for Young People in Woodley
Cllr Darren Smith
After a period of consideration and extensive consultation with local young people, youth service providers, Wokingham Borough Council, Thames Valley Police, and other partners, a dedicated working group, which had been established in September 2023, submitted a new set of recommendations. These were approved by the Leisure Services Committee in November 2024 and now form the basis of the updated strategy.
“Young people in Woodley deserve services that listen to their needs, respond to their changing interests, and offer safe, inclusive spaces to grow, learn, and have fun. This new strategy ensures we are doing exactly that – together with our partners and the community,” said Cllr Darren Smith, Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee.
Strategic Priorities
The strategy sets out clear aims, including:
Improving mental health, wellbeing, and reducing isolation
Giving young people a stronger voice in local decision-making
Expanding the range of fun, inclusive, and safe activities
Supporting those at risk of becoming vulnerable
Offering opportunities during school holidays, select evenings, and key national events
Provide safe spaces and opportunities to meet
Exploring cost-effective delivery within the budget and funding opportunities
Ensuring youth services stay responsive and relevant year after year.
How It Will Be Delivered
Woodley Town Council will work with a range of external partners to deliver:
Regular sessionssuch as sports, music, arts, training, and workshops
One-off events and structured activities, including competitions and trips
Mobile venues such as converted vans or trailers to bring services directly to Woodley
Use of community venues where appropriate.
Who It’s For
Services will primarily support young people aged 9 to 21 in Woodley, with a special focus on those who may be vulnerable or currently underrepresented in local youth provision.
Looking Ahead
The strategy will be reviewed annually to ensure it continues to reflect the needs and interests of young people in Woodley. The Council is now actively seeking to establish options through partners to help bring these plans to life.The new Youth Strategy can be viewed on our website.
Local charities and organisations receive funding to benefit the lives of Woodley residents
At its April Strategy & Resources Committee Meeting, Woodley Town Council awarded a series of Community Grants to local organisations whose work supports the wellbeing, health, and culture of Woodley residents. These grants, each up to £350, are part of the Council’s ongoing effort to support community life in Woodley.
Empowering Young Minds: Life Education Wessex & Thames Valley
A £310 grant was awarded to Life Education Wessex & Thames Valley (LEW&TV) to deliver vital health and drug prevention workshops to nearly 500 children at Highwood Primary School. The charity, which has been active since 1998, brings early intervention education into schools across the Thames Valley and beyond.
“We would like to thank Woodley Town Council for their grant. This support from Woodley Town Council helps us provide children with the knowledge and confidence to make healthy choices, equipping them for life’s challenges,” said a LEW&TV spokesperson. “The workshops aim to tackle issues like obesity, mental health, and substance misuse – helping build safer, healthier communities.”
Driven By Kindness: Woodley Volunteer Centre
A £350 grant was awarded to Woodley Volunteer Centre to help recruit more volunteer drivers through local advertising. Since 1982, the centre has provided essential transport services for elderly and disabled residents needing to attend medical appointments.
“With around 120 trips per month and a growing client base, we’re always in need of more drivers,” said the centre’s co-ordinator, Karen Todd. “The funding allows us to reach new volunteers – some of whom we’ve already welcomed thanks to these ads.”
The charity also provides one-to-one support, accompanying clients to hospital departments and waiting with them through appointments. The team will be available to talk to prospective volunteers at the Council’s Annual Town Meeting on 23 May, 7pm at the Oakwood Centre.
Upgrading Member Facilities: Woodley Bowling Club
Woodley Bowling Club received a £350 grant to improve its clubhouse insulation and fit an insulated water tank jacket. The club, founded in 1964 and entirely self-funded, serves as a year-round hub for local bowlers and social gatherings.
“This grant helps us save on energy bills and opens up the clubhouse for more winter use,” said Hon Treasurer Stephen Treeves. “Our members, 90% of whom live in Woodley, benefit directly from these improvements. We’re always happy to welcome new members – our next Open Day is on 10 May, from 2–5pm at Woodford Park.”
Celebrating Youth Talent: Woodley Festival of Music & Arts
A further £350 was awarded to the Woodley Festival of Music & Arts, which celebrated its 55th year in March. The festival welcomed nearly 2,000 young performers across five categories: Choral, Vocal, Instrumental, Pianoforte, and Speech & Drama.
“The council’s grant helps us hire professional adjudicators, pianos, and venues, giving young people an incredible opportunity to perform publicly and grow in confidence,” said Co-Chair Fiona Fisher. “We were also thrilled to welcome the Town Mayor and Deputy Mayor this year to see our talented participants in action.”
Continued Support for Woodley’s Community
These grants are just one way in which Woodley Town Council supports Woodley’s thriving community. Grants of up to £350 are available to Woodley-based groups that provide services, events, or facilities benefiting local residents. Applications are open for one-off costs including equipment, building improvements, or youth group participation in regional or national events.
For more information about how to apply, please visit the Grants Section on our website.
Woodley came together on Wednesday 8 May to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, honouring the end of the Second World War in Europe and paying tribute to those who served and sacrificed for our freedom
The commemorative event, held at the War Memorial in Woodford Park, saw members of the community gather in remembrance and reflection, culminating in the nationwide lighting of beacons at 9.30pm. We extend our thanks to everyone who attended and supported the evening’s proceedings.
Proclamation
Special thanks go to Town Crier Tony Roper, whose powerful and moving reading of the VE Day 80 Proclamation began the evening’s commemorations. His contribution helped set a respectful and solemn tone as we remembered a pivotal moment in our nation’s history.
Woodley Town Mayor
We were also honoured to have Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg, participate in his first public engagement since his recent appointment. Cllr Bragg laid the first wreath on behalf of Woodley in memory of all those who gave so much. He later joined communities across the UK in lighting the official beacon at 9.30pm, symbolising peace and unity across the nation.
“It was an honour to lay the first wreath on behalf of the people of Woodley and to light the beacon in unity with communities across the country. VE Day is a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom. Let us also not forget those on military service who remained in the uncertain field of conflict, in the far east and those with peace-keeping duties across Europe and at sea. Indeed, my own father was on board ship in the North Atlantic escorting a convoy of ships to Gibraltar when UBoat U541 surfaced to surrender to his vessel on 12th May, four days after peace was announced.As we mark 80 years since the end of the war in Europe, we reflect with gratitude and commit to preserving the peace they gave us,” said Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr Bragg.
VE Day
VE Day marks the moment in 1945 when Allied forces formally accepted the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany, bringing an end to nearly six years of war in Europe. It was a day of immense relief and celebration, but also reflection, as the country remembered the lives lost and the courage of those who stood up in the face of tyranny.
On this 80th anniversary, we pause to give thanks to all who fought for our freedom, both at home and overseas. Their bravery and sacrifice gave us the liberties we enjoy today. We will never forget their service or take for granted the peace they secured.
Woodley Community
Once again, thank you to everyone who took part in making the Woodley VE Day 80 event a meaningful and respectful commemoration.
At the Annual Meeting on 6 May, Woodley Town Council formally elected Cllr David Bragg as Town Mayor and Cllr Darren Smith as Deputy Mayor for the year ahead.
Mayor’s charity
Mayor Bragg has selected Promise Inclusion as his charity of the year, supporting individuals with learning disabilities and their families.
Invite the Mayor
If you’d like to invite the Mayor or Deputy Mayor to your event, please complete the request form on our website.
Cllr David BRAGG (Town Mayor 2025/26)Cllr Darren SMITH (Deputy Town Mayor 2025/26)
