A significant donation from a national housebuilder is helping one of Widnes's oldest community groups to secure its future and connect with a new generation of residents. The Widnes Historical Society, established in 1951, has utilised funding from Redrow to promote its vital work in preserving and sharing the area's rich heritage.
Bridging Generations Through Local History
The society, which aims to share knowledge of Widnes and the surrounding area's past, received support from Redrow's £10,000 Widnes Community Fund. This fund is allocated to groups near the developer's two new local developments, Oak Brook Manor and Mill Green Meadows, which offer homes from Redrow's Heritage Collection.
Gillian Wynne-Parle, the society's treasurer, explained how the donation has been put to immediate use. "Redrow’s donation has been used to print flyers and arrange delivery of them to every home in the WA8 postcode," she said. "With lots of new people moving to the area, we want to take the opportunity to tell them all about our society and welcome them into the community they have chosen to move into."
Monthly Meetings and Social Connection
The heart of the society's activities are its monthly meetings, held at Farnworth School Hall on Pit Lane. These gatherings feature guest speakers who bring local history to life and serve as a friendly community event for people of all ages.
"As well as hosting our monthly meetings, we produce pamphlets, leaflets and books to help share and preserve the history of our area," added Gillian Wynne-Parle. "Coming along to the meetings is also really valuable socially - it gives people a chance to connect and helps reduce isolation."
A Warm Welcome for New and Existing Residents
Amanda Jones, head of sales at Redrow NW, expressed her support for the society's dual mission. "It’s wonderful to see Widnes Historical Society keeping the area’s heritage alive," she said. "It’s equally lovely that they’re reaching out to new homeowners and welcoming them into the group, giving people the chance to settle in and make new friends."
This initiative highlights a successful partnership between community heritage and new development, ensuring that as Widnes grows, its historical identity remains vibrant and accessible to all who call it home.
