Welcome to the August 2026 edition of the Feering Parish Council News
In this edition, we will be bringing you dates for your diary, information on School Uniform Banks, local news and more.
Feering Parish Councillors are Pamela Carlaw (Chairman), Katherine Evans (Vice-Chairman), Ian Giles, Jane Maddison, Ed Mitchell, Jo Spencer and Nathaniel Warwick, who can all be contacted via the Parish Office on 01376 572882.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the very latest news and events.
Reporting an Issue
We appreciate feedback from residents about all aspects of village life and the reporting of issues.
With regard to the two issues of fly tipping on the Playing Field during the last week and a tree causing a hazard across the rafted path at the Coggeshall Road end, thank you for reporting to us so that we can make more people aware.
We would also encourage residents to report issues to Braintree District Council, Essex Highways and National Highways.
To find out where to report an issue, we have a dedicated page on the website with useful links to the relevant authorities: https://feeringparishcouncil.gov.uk/report-an-issue/
Huge thanks to Essex County Fire & Rescue Service
Following on from the Government’s Alert warning about the increased risk of wildfires, we wanted to remind our village of the advice that our friends at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service have given to us and how you can make a difference.
Here’s how you can help this summer and beyond:
- Avoid using fireworks, lighting bonfires, gas stoves or having barbecues on dry grass or in the countryside
- Dispose of cigarettes safely
- Take litter home, particularly glass bottles, which can increase the risk of fire
- Report fires immediately by calling 999
- Download the free what3words app to help emergency services identify your location if needed
- Stay safe in and around water, remembering “Float to Live” if you or someone else is struggling in the water
- Report any information about deliberate fires anonymously to FireStoppers
To find out more, visit the website: https://www.essex-fire.gov.uk/
Scenic Footpaths
The combination of sunshine and school holidays has given us a chance to explore the scenic footpaths that criss cross Feering and take us into neighbouring parishes.
Many of these rights of way border or cross agricultural land and we must take care not to trespass into or damage any crops. We have been asked particularly to remind everyone not to stray from Footpath 14 from the end of Worlds End Lane to the pumping station (and on to Ewell Hall Farm). On either side is managed willow plantation which is not open to the public. This also applies to Lady Meadow on our side of the Blackwater.
For any feedback or questions about our Public Rights of Way, please contact the Parish Clerk.
Children’s Art Competition
Your local museum needs a new logo – can you help by designing one for it?
The Feering and Kelvedon Local History museum needs a logo that can be used on the website and documents and they would like local children to help design it for them.
The design can be the museums name or initials and can include one of the museum exhibits.
There are three age categories: 8 and under; 9 – 11 and 12 – 18 (as on 31stAugust 2026). Children must either live within Kelvedon or Feering or attend one of the village schools.
The winning entry will then be made into a full working logo by W3 Design Company based in Kelvedon who are kindly donating their time.
There will be prizes for each category of £15 and the overall winner £25 in gift vouchers.
Closing date for submissions is 1st October 2026
For entry details and how to submit your entry, visit: https://feeringparishcouncil.gov.uk/fklhm-artcomp
Hedge and tree Cutting Reminder
A gentle reminder to residents that 31st August marks the end of the main bird nesting season.
If you have a hedge or tree bordering a pavement or footpath, please take a moment to check that it isn’t overhanging or obstructing the path. Once the nesting season has ended, please cut back any overgrown hedges where necessary to help keep our footpaths clear, safe and accessible for everyone.
Thank you for helping to keep our village looking tidy and our paths safe for all residents to enjoy.
Third Time Lucky for Braintree District Council's Dog Day!
Bring your furry friend along and enjoy a FREE fun filled day for dog lovers of all ages! Taking place on Saturday, September 26, 10 AM – 2 PM at Weavers Park, Bocking End, Braintree.
Join the family dog show and…
Take part in some fantastic free activities. Meet your local community safety partners. Discover local groups and community projects
This event is part of the Safer Streets Project bringing the community together.
Book now and receive a FREE goodie bag on the day. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dog-day-tickets-1987890663487
School Uniform Banks
In their recent news article, Love Essex has found that Department for Education reports, “parents are having to pay £442 on average to kit a child out for secondary school, and £343 for primary school, putting unnecessary financial pressure on families.” With children growing so quickly, those costs can add up fast.
The good news? Across Essex, there is an amazing community of volunteers helping to keep school uniform affordable through local uniform banks. These schemes give pre-loved uniforms a second life, providing quality clothing that is perfectly suited to the rigours of school life while helping families save money and reduce waste.
For a list of school uniform banks, visit: https://www.loveessex.org/news/2026/school-uniform-banks-essex
Braintree District Volunteer and Active Braintree Awards 2026
Braintree District Council’s Braintree District Volunteer and Active Awards are back for 2026!
The awards are for us recognise and celebrate the people who make our communities stronger, healthier, and more connected.
These awards recognise the individuals, groups and organisations making a positive difference across the district through volunteering, sport and physical activity, and health and wellbeing.
The awards are an opportunity to recognise the individuals, groups and organisations who give their time to help our communities to be better, healthier places to live, work and play.
The categories this year include awards for Long Service, Inspirational Role Model, Volunteers, Health & Wellbeing and Sports.
The presentation event will take place on Wednesday 21st October 2026 at Hedingham Castle!
The closing date for nominations is 5pm on Friday 4th September, who in the Feering community deserves recognition for their services to the community?
You can nominate them and find full details of the awards and categories at: https://forms.office.com/e/fDzJTtkmea
Help Shape the Future of Our Community – Become a Parish Councillor!
Parish Councillors are the voice of our community and make real change. Parish Councillors are the champions of our community who invest time in local projects and issues to the benefit of residents and the neighbourhood.
Now’s the chance to step up and be a driving force in shaping the future of our community.
We are currently seeking 2 new Parish Councillors to fill vacancies and contribute to the growth of our village.
Why become a Parish Councillor?
As a Parish Councillor, you will be at the forefront of decision-making that directly affects the lives of our residents. You will help to shape the future of the village and have a direct impact on decisions that impact on the future of Feering. You will be the voice of your fellow residents, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed and contribute to local initiatives that enhance the well-being of our community.
Hear from our Councillors on why they wanted to become a Parish Councillor and what they love about serving on our website: https://feeringparishcouncil.gov.uk/become-a-parish-councillor/
How can you get involved?
If you have a passion for community, a desire to make a positive impact, and a willingness to dedicate some of your time, we encourage you to become a Parish Councillor. Come along to our next Parish Council Meeting on Tuesday 28 Julyat Feering Community Centre and find out what becoming a Parish Councillor entails or speak to our Clerk, Lisa (email: clerk@feeringparishcouncil.gov.uk or tel: 01376 572882).
Let’s make a difference together.
Become a Parish Councillor and be a force for positive change in our community. Come along to our next Parish Council Meeting at Feering Community Centre and find out what becoming a Parish Councillor entails. You can apply today by emailing clerk@feeringparishcouncil.gov.uk or tel: 01376 572882 and let your voice be heard!
Manned Refuse Collection
We are delighted to confirm that the Manned Refuse service will continue for the financial year 2026/27 and the schedule of dates for the next year are below:
| Glebe Gardens | 10.00 – 11.00 | 12.09.2026 |
| Hanover Square | 11.00 – 12.00 | 12.09.2026 |
| Bottom of Feering Hill | 10.00 – 11.00 | 17.10.2026 |
| Rye Mill Lane | 11.00 – 12.00 | 17.10.2026 |
| Glebe Gardens | 10.00 – 11.00 | 12.12.2026 |
| Hanover Square | 11.00 – 12.00 | 12.12.2026 |
| Bottom of Feering Hill | 10.00 – 11.00 | 16.01.2027 |
| Rye Mill Lane | 11.00 – 12.00 | 16.01.2027 |
| Glebe Gardens | 10.00 – 11.00 | 06.03.2027 |
| Hanover Square | 11.00 – 12.00 | 06.03.2027 |