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The Walford Village Hall Committee is celebrating after being awarded £20,000 of National Lottery funding for urgent roof repairs. The grant, from The National Lottery Community Fund, will allow the hall to replace its ageing flat roofs, ensuring the building remains safe, welcoming, and fit for purpose for years to come.

Walford Village Hall, officially named the Robert Pashley Memorial Hall, has been at the heart of community life in Walford, near Ross-on-Wye, since its opening in 1969. Over the decades it has continued to evolve, with extensions in the 1990s, the addition of a children’s play area in 2017, and recent refurbishments including new toilets and redecorated spaces.

Today the hall provides a fully equipped main hall and meeting room, internet access, kitchen facilities and parking, making it a flexible and much-loved venue for a wide range of events. From parish council meetings and exercise classes to summer and Christmas fairs and tea mornings, it plays a vital role as a hub where residents come together to celebrate, learn and connect.

Anthony Jones, Trustee, said:
“We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our need to future-proof the hall. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can now press ahead with essential roof repairs, safeguarding this space for future generations of our community.”

Tim Pople, Chair of the Committee, added:
“Walford Village Hall has been at the heart of our community for more than 50 years, and this funding means we can keep it that way. The hall is where friendships are made, skills are shared and memories are created. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can ensure that our hall continues to be a safe and welcoming space for everyone, from the youngest children to our oldest residents.”

National Lottery players raise over £30 million each week for good causes across the UK. Last year alone, The National Lottery Community Fund awarded over £686 million to more than 13,700 projects, helping communities like Walford to thrive.

To find out more, visit: www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk

Photo: Ross Gazette

Glorious late summer sunshine and a fun-filled programme of activities set the scene for Walford Village Hall’s much-loved annual Fun Day, which drew hundreds of families from across the community on bank holiday Monday 25^th August.

A highlight of the day was the ever-popular dog show, which attracted dozens of four-legged competitors much to the delight of the crowd. Children and parents also enjoyed traditional games such as splat the rat, hook-a-duck, sack races, and the egg-and-spoon race, while the on-site play area proved a hit with the youngest visitors.

Alongside the games, guests browsed a wide range of stalls featuring handmade jewellery, crochet, crafts, jams, jellies, and sweet treats. Food was plentiful, with fresh pizza, burgers, fries, cakes, and bakes provided by the local WI. Face painting added a splash of colour, ensuring fun for all ages.

Anthony Jones, Trustee of Walford Village Hall, said:
“We were thrilled to welcome so many people to this year’s Fun Day. It was wonderful to see families enjoying themselves in the sunshine and supporting our village hall. The hall is at the heart of the community, hosting everything from clubs and groups to parties and celebrations.”

Thank you to Ross Photo Club for the great collection of photographs from the day below. Click the images to enlarge.

Get ready for a fantastic evening of trivia, laughter, and community spirit at the Walford Quiz Night! Taking place on Friday, 3rd October at 7:30 PM in the Walford Village Hall, this event promises to be a great night out for friends, families, and quiz lovers alike.

Entry is just £5 per person, and you’re welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks. Teams can have up to 6 people, so gather your crew and put your knowledge to the test! There will also be a raffle with great prizes to be won.

All proceeds from the night will go to Muscular Dystrophy UK, supporting vital research and those living with muscle-wasting conditions.

Spaces are limited, so book now by calling 07796 585255 or emailing martinwhitehouse586@btinternet.com.

Come along, have fun, and support a great cause!

Looking to reset your nervous system, connect inward, and enjoy an afternoon of deep rest and nourishment? Join Helen for a beautifully curated 3-hour Yin Yoga and Sound Healing Workshop designed to help you unwind and restore.

The session begins with 75 minutes of Yin Yoga, combined with a Shavasana massage to release tension and ground the body. This gentle practice invites stillness and opens the space for deeper healing. After a short break and a chance to set your intention, Helen guides you through a calming 10-minute meditation, enhanced by the soothing tones of singing bowls.

From there, the experience deepens into a 50-minute Sound Bath, where you’ll be immersed in the healing vibrations of crystal bowls, chimes, and other instruments. This soundscape helps clear energetic blockages, ease stress, and promote emotional balance.

To close the session, enjoy vegan cake and Yogi Tea in a relaxed space. There’s an opportunity to reflect or share what came up during your experience—but only if you feel comfortable doing so.

This unique event is £30 for 3 hours, with limited spaces to maintain an intimate and nurturing atmosphere. Bookings are final upon payment, so early reservation is recommended.

Helen’s approach combines years of experience in yoga, meditation, and sound healing to create a safe, welcoming environment for all. Whether you’re new to these practices or a seasoned yogi, this afternoon offers a powerful reset for body, mind, and spirit.

🌿 Learn more about sound healing and book your place here:
https://www.energyogawithhelen.com/sound-healing