Devon districts among the friendliest in England
The South Hams and West Devon have been named among the friendliest
The South Hams and West Devon have been named among the friendliest places in England.
The South Hams was ranked second and West Devon third, in a new index of all 296 local council areas, in the University of Oxford’s National Conversation Project, analysing social division across Britain.
It draws on government data from the Community Life Survey
The strength of community life was measured, by looking at how often people speak to their neighbours, feelings of loneliness and belonging, pride in the local area and participation in civic life.
South Hams and West Devon, which coincidentally share a council workforce, were pipped to the post, by the Isles of Scilly.
Also in the top five were the Derbyshire Dales and Richmond upon Thames, while Barking and Dagenham was named at the least friendly with Stoke-in-Trent, Ashfield, Mansfield and Ipswich also in the bottom five.
Views will inform a report later this year, by the Independent Commission, on Community and Cohesion.
The recognition highlights the strong community spirit found across South Hams and West Devon’s towns, villages, farming and rural communities, where residents, businesses and community groups work hard, to support one another and take pride in where they live.
Local business communities also play an important role in bringing people together and supporting vibrant high streets, helping to make the areas welcoming places to live, work and visit.
Leader of South Hams District Council, Dan Thomas (Lib Dem, South Brent and Yealmpton), said: “Anyone who knows the South Hams will understand why it has been recognised this way.
“Yes, we’re lucky to have beautiful coast, countryside, villages and towns, but what really makes this district special is its people.
“Across the South Hams, there are so many residents, businesses, volunteers and community groups, who quietly go out of their way to help others, welcome visitors and look after the places they care about. That kindness and community spirit is something we should never take for granted.
“To be named the second friendliest place in England is lovely recognition for the district and it is something everyone who lives and works here can feel proud of.”
Leader of West Devon Borough Council, Mandy Ewings (Ind, Tavistock South West), said: “We are delighted that West Devon has been recognised as the third friendliest place to live in the UK. It is wonderful recognition for the borough and a real credit to the people, who make West Devon such a welcoming place.
“Across the borough, residents, businesses and community groups work hard, to support one another and take pride in where they live.
“I am extremely proud of the role we play, helping create the ambiance for communities to thrive, whether that is supporting local projects, investing in community hall improvements, protecting and enhancing the landscape, as well as helping get new facilities, such as the Okehampton Interchange, built.
“It’s also a testament to our fantastic hospitality sector and local independent businesses, which give visitors such a warm welcome and helps showcase everything that makes West Devon unique.”