Community spirit recognised as village secures Second Place in prestigious county competition…
There was cause for celebration this week as Good Easter was awarded Second Place in the Essex Village of the Year 2026 competition, with judges praising the village’s exceptional community spirit, thriving volunteer network and ambitious plans for the future.
The award was presented at the Rural Community Council of Essex (RCCE) Annual General Meeting, where Parish Council Chairman Cllr Graham Seeley proudly received the certificate on behalf of the village.
The judges were impressed by the breadth of community activity taking place in Good Easter, highlighting the Good Easter Sports Field Association for its much-loved Pop-Up Pubs, annual Village Fete and Dog Show, as well as praising the work of the Good Easter Garden and Nature Group in enhancing the local environment. They also commended the quality of the village newsletter and the Parish Council’s ambitious plans to create a new community building for future generations.
Adding a smile to the occasion, the judges also recognised one of Good Easter’s most unique claims to fame – the village still proudly holds the Guinness World Record for creating the world’s longest daisy chain, a remarkable achievement that continues to be celebrated through the village’s Daisy Circle social group.
Speaking after receiving the award, Parish Council Chairman Cllr Graham Seeley said:
“I’m absolutely delighted with this award. It belongs to everyone in Good Easter. The judges recognised so many different aspects of village life – from our volunteers and community events to our environmental projects and our plans for the future. To receive this recognition in a village of around 350 people shows just how much can be achieved when everyone pulls together. We should all be immensely proud.”
Although one of Essex’s smaller villages, Good Easter continues to demonstrate that community success is measured not by size, but by the willingness of local people to become involved. Throughout the year, volunteers organise events, care for public spaces, renovate community facilities, support local organisations and create opportunities for neighbours to come together.
Parish Clerk, Lucy White said preparing the competition entry had highlighted just how much the village has to offer.
“Putting together the submission really brought home just how much happens in Good Easter. Every page reminded us of another event, another group or another team of volunteers quietly making a difference to village life. This award is a tribute to everyone who gives their time so generously, whether through the Parish Council, the Sports Field Association, St Andrew’s Church, the Village Hall, the Garden and Nature Group or the many other organisations and individuals who help make Good Easter such a wonderful place to live. I am delighted that the judges recognised what makes this community so special.”
The award reflects the combined efforts of countless volunteers who give their time throughout the year, from organising popular community events and maintaining village facilities to supporting environmental initiatives and helping neighbours. Their commitment continues to strengthen the close-knit community that makes Good Easter such a special place.
While celebrating this wonderful achievement, the Parish Council and local organisations are already looking ahead. Plans continue to progress for a new combined community building that will bring together the village hall and sports facilities, ensuring that Good Easter’s strong community spirit continues to flourish for generations to come.
The Parish Council would like to thank every resident, volunteer and community organisation whose dedication has helped Good Easter achieve this well-deserved recognition. This award belongs to the whole village.