26/05/2026
The Harwell Feast has been a valued part of village life for generations. What many people see as a single day of celebration is, in reality, the result of months of planning, several days of preparation, and the dedication of volunteers who give up their own time freely for the benefit of the community.
This year’s Feast was once again a fantastic success, enjoyed by thousands of people from Harwell and beyond. It brought families together, created lasting memories for children, supported local causes, and celebrated the community spirit that has always been at the heart of the village.
A key part of the Feast is the parade. For many children and families, it is the highlight of the entire event. Behind every float, costume, and performance are many hours of hard work, creativity, and enthusiasm from people who simply want to contribute something positive to the community.
We would like to thank the overwhelming majority of residents and visitors who supported the event, respected the temporary arrangements, and helped make the day such a success.
However, it is deeply disappointing that, once again, some of our volunteers were subjected to hostility, verbal abuse, and aggressive behaviour from a small number of drivers attempting to bypass the temporary road closures put in place for the parade.
The road closure is not arranged casually or without oversight. Permission must be formally applied for well in advance, with safety plans reviewed and approved by the relevant authorities before any closure is permitted. These measures exist to protect children, participants, spectators, volunteers, and drivers alike.
What is most upsetting is that this behaviour is directed at volunteers — ordinary members of the community who are giving up their personal time to organise an event for everyone else to enjoy. These are not paid staff. They are neighbours, parents, friends, and local residents who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep a long-standing village tradition alive.
To argue with, insult, or intimidate volunteers simply because they are enforcing an approved road closure designed to keep people safe is completely unacceptable. In several cases, this behaviour took place in front of children and families taking part in the parade, which makes it all the more disappointing and embarrassing for those involved.
A short delay or diversion is a small inconvenience compared to the time, effort, and goodwill required to organise an event of this scale for the benefit of the whole community.
The reality is simple: events like the Harwell Feast only continue because volunteers are willing to give their time and energy. If volunteers continue to be treated in this manner, there will inevitably come a point where people decide it is no longer worth putting themselves forward. Should that happen, we may have no option but to reconsider the future of the parade, and potentially the Feast itself.
We sincerely hope that the community will continue to support the event in the spirit it is intended — one of kindness, patience, pride, and community spirit.
