Floral village is thriving

SONNING COMMON entered the national Britain in Bloom competition for the first time this year.

The Village Gardeners, a group of volunteers, has transformed what was a scruffy village centre into a riot of colour. Grass verges, flowerbeds and even an old telephone box have all been given a floral makeover.

The group, which was launched in 2009 and now has 25 members, is one of many community groups in the village.

Nottakwire, a singing group run by Margaret Moola and Elaine Williams, holds regular concerts and raises thousands of pounds for local charities. It has more than 65 members.

The village also has its own help service, which has been running for 35 years.