NEWS
Please see information and updates below that we feel are of interest to our members and local community.
OCTOBER 2026
AGM TO BE HELD AT BROCKENHURST COLLEGE
Join Friends of Brockenhurst for our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 18th November at Brockenhurst College. Enjoy drinks and nibbles from 7.00pm before the meeting begins at 7.30pm.
We’re delighted to welcome guest speaker Helen Odhams, Principal and Chief Executive, alongside college staff and students, who will share insights into “Brockenhurst College: Past, Present & Future”.
SEPTEMBER 2026
FOB & PTA TO HOST CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL...
The Friends of Brockenhurst and Brockenhurst Primary School PTA are delighted to announce the return of the Brockenhurst Christmas Tree Festival, taking place at St Saviour’s Church from Friday 4th to Sunday 6th December 2026.
This much-loved community event will transform the church into a glittering winter wonderland, showcasing around 35 beautifully decorated Christmas trees sponsored and designed by local businesses, organisations, and community groups. Each tree will reflect its creator’s unique style and festive spirit, offering visitors a joyful start to the Christmas season.
Funds raised from the festival will go to local community groups and charities, including Brockenhurst Primary School PTA and Oakhaven Hospice, helping to support vital community projects and services.
AUGUST 2026
BROCKIVAL - GALA IN THE GARDEN...
Great to be involved with Brockival - Brockenhurst Carnival & Gala in the Garden. A fantastic community event and we were delighted to be selling donuts (kindly supplied by the wonderful Bakehouse) on our FOB stall!
MAY 2026
A WONDERFUL SPRING MEETING ...
A huge thank you to our wonderful hosts for the Friends of Brockenhurst Spring Meeting at the Balmer Lawn Hotel.
We were delighted to spend the evening at the hotel and would like to extend our sincere thanks to both Alison and Chris for their warm hospitality. The setting was perfect, and it was especially lovely to enjoy drinks outside in the sunshine before the meeting.
The presentation gave a fascinating insight into the trials and tribulations of running such an iconic hotel, and members thoroughly enjoyed hearing the stories, history, and future plans. We have received lots of very positive feedback from attendees and greatly appreciate the time and enthusiasm shared with us.
APRIL 2026
CHARLES GODWIN ADDED TO WAR MEMORIAL ...
A small group have gathered to mark the addition of Charles Godwin, a Brockenhurst resident and colonial Police chief who was murdered in Malaya by terrorists, to our village war memorial.
The reason his name was omitted in 1954 is a mystery, but having identified the gap, the Friends of Brockenhurst have lobbied (and paid for) his name to be added. Rev. Alan Graham said a few prayers in a short ceremony attended by Mark, Charles’ son, who lives in Stockbridge. Others who attended were FoB President Rachel Smith, and Chair of the Parish Council Russell Horne, as well as David Bennett who did the historical research.
MARCH 2026
BIG BROCK QUIZ - SAVE THE DATE - 16TH APRIL
Come along and test your knowledge of Brockenhurst in a fun and friendly quiz all about our wonderful village.
Whether you have lived here for years or are new to the area, this promises to be a great evening filled with laughter, local stories and a few surprises along the way.
It’s a chance to enjoy a relaxed night out with friends and neighbours, learn some fascinating facts about where you live, and see just how much you really know about Brockenhurst.
Gather your team, bring your village knowledge, and join us for what promises to be a fantastic evening for the whole community.
MARCH 2026
CITIZEN OF BROCKENHURST AWARDS 2026
Do you know someone who has gone the extra mile for the village, a neighbour, a friend, or a good cause?
The Parish Council are seeking nominations for their Citizen Awards, celebrating the people in Brockenhurst whose kindness, dedication, and efforts make a real difference to individuals and the community.
Please visit the Parish Council website to download a nomination form:
FEBRUARY 2026
WAR MEMORIAL UPDATED...
Charles Godwin was the Police Commissioner in Penang, Malaysia. He was murdered by terrorists in 1954. His family home in Britain was in North Wiers, and he left a wife, son, and daughter. For reasons unknown his name was not added to the War Memorial at the time, though others killed post-war are recorded.
The Friends of Brockenhurst, having spotted the omission, have now paid for Charles' name to be added, and it's hoped his son and daughter will visit to see their father's name. We will remember Charles, his service, and his sacrifice.
FEBRUARY 2026
ANNUAL PANCAKE RACES...
The Friends of Brockenhurst were delighted to once again sponsor the annual pancake races in Brockenhurst and provide medals for the winners. The medals, crafted from wood, offered a more sustainable option while still looking fantastic.
Working closely with the Brockenhurst Parish Council Events Committee, the races proved to be a great success, attracting a strong turnout and plenty of community spirit.
JANUARY 2026
BROCKENHURST CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL SUCCESS...
Congratulations to Brockenhurst Primary School for winning the "People's Tree 2025" as voted for by the general public.
Second place: Chemotherapy Headwear
Third place: Brockenhurst Cricket Club
The festival was a great success raising £1,400 which has been donated to the following local charities:
Brockenhurst Primary School PTA
Brockenhurst Mothers' Union
Oakhaven Hospice