What's Happening in Bovey Tracey
Newsletter 11 Summer 2026
Dear Community Hub members,
Dear all,
Here’s an overview of what’s happening at the Riverside Community Centre.
More info about what is going on in Bovey will follow soon.
I am always happy to receive information about events happening in the community, and if anyone is feeling creative, a write-up afterwards about something you’ve attended and enjoyed, could always be included in this newsletter.
Strengthening the RCC for the Future
This year so far, we’ve made significant improvements to the building to ensure it remains a reliable, sustainable community asset for years to come.
Solar Power Upgrades
We’ve expanded our solar battery storage, allowing us to capture and use more of our own renewable energy. This reduces running costs and keeps the centre operational even during power cuts.
We’ve also requested approval for a new solar backup system, which will allow the panels to keep generating during grid outages — a key step in strengthening Riverside’s role as a local resilience hub.
The National Grid have also been communicating with us about providing a generator should there be a major and sustained power cut in the area. Talks are on-going.
Kitchen Improvements
A new fire‑rated, sound‑insulated door is planned for the kitchen hatch area. This will improve safety and reduce noise during events, making the space more comfortable for everyone.
Community Connections Are Growing
Our volunteers have been out on the high street, building relationships with local businesses and groups. This simple, friendly outreach has transformed how people see the centre — not just as a hall for hire, but as a hub for connection.
The Bovey Tracey Hub website is now widely used as a digital notice board, helping residents discover local events, clubs, and services. If you haven’t explored it recently, take a look — there’s always something new. We are happy to create adverts and promote whatever contributes to the great experience of living in the Bovey Tracey area.
Supporting Wellbeing in Our Community
We’re proud to be offering the hall free of charge on a semi‑regular basis to small wellbeing groups hosting open coffee mornings. These sessions:
- create low‑pressure social spaces
- support groups with limited resources
- help reduce loneliness
- build a welcoming weekly rhythm of activity
The recent kitchen extension has made these gatherings even more accessible and enjoyable.
Volunteers Making a Difference
Two regular volunteers now support community engagement and website development. They’ve shaped their own roles based on their strengths and interests, and their work has made a real impact.
Their efforts have:
- strengthened communication between the RCC, Bovey Tracey Hub and the community
- increased visibility for local groups and businesses
- helped keep the website fresh, useful, and easy to navigate
If you’re interested in volunteering — even for a small, flexible role — we’d love to hear from you.
What We’ve Discovered So Far This Year
- Being visible in the community builds trust
- Small improvements can transform how spaces are used
- Accessibility benefits more people than expected
- Empowered volunteers bring creativity and confidence
- Collaboration is the key to a thriving network
- Communication using many forms can help improve community involvement, whether that be through social events or commercial opportunities.
- Looking Ahead
The RCC is continuing its journey from a traditional hire‑based venue to a relationship‑centred community hub. Over the coming months we’ll be:
- expanding wellbeing partnerships
- improving digital engagement
- strengthening the building’s sustainability
- supporting more local groups and initiatives
- working hard to develop this website to create a one-stop site for local events and small business promotion.
We’re excited about what’s ahead — and grateful for everyone who helps.
Many thanks.
Helen
ps. if you have signed up to receive the newsletter, you will receive a version of the above very soon.
