Power of the community in Wanstead is second to none

It was fantastic to see a bench recently vandalised on Christchurch Green repaired, so that people in our community can once again enjoy resting there.

The repair resulted from the intervention of a local lady, who spoke to some builders working nearby. They generously fixed the bench without charge. A real case of community action and putting something back.

It is this type of community spirit that is so important in our often anonymous and sometimes seemingly uncaring society. This action was Wanstead at its best.

There are so many people that quietely contribute to the common good of life in Wanstead. The guerrilla gardeners who tend and create flower beds. The new Wild Wanstead initiative, which has planted tree pits in so many of our roads. The sea of colour expected is beginning to emerge, though slightly delayed due to the dry weather.

There are those helping out neighbours by picking up some shopping for them.

Much voluntary work goes on in Wanstead Park. There is a relative army of litter pickers who go around the park ensuring that rubbish is removed.

Members of the Wren group do other restoration work in the park.

Litter picking extends well beyond the park, with activities taking place on Christchurch Green, George Green and around the Tarzy Wood area.

These are all actions taken by individuals coming together in community to make our area a better place.

There is more that can be done though, especially on litter. It never fails to amaze me, how human beings will just drop rubbish around them and move off. I am not sure there is any other creature in the animal kingdom that behaves in such a way. Dirtying once own pitch as it were?

If those who drop rubbish in Wanstead Park, Christchurch and George Green, Tarzy Wood and elsewhere just took the stuff home and disposed of it through the correct channels, a lot of effort would be saved. It is really just a case of taking responsibility for ourselves and community.

But enough of the negative. The voluntary efforts of so many people in Wanstead should be recognised and applauded because it is they who make this such a lovely place to live.

*published - 19/7/2018 - Wanstead & Woodford Guardian - "Power of the community in Wanstead is second to none"