Whipton Community Jumble Trail

By Jemima Moore (Whipton Community Builder)

The idea for the Jumble Trail grew out of conversations at the Little Library launch at Barberry Close. People were chatting about ways to bring neighbours together, and someone suggested a trail where people could sell or give away items from their front gardens.

The Community Champions took on the idea and made a plan and date during one of their meetings. One resident did lots of leafleting, going out around the area to make sure everyone knew about it. Another created a beautiful hand-drawn map of the trail, and everyone helped spread the word among their neighbours. It was a lovely example of what can happen when people use their skills and energy to make something happen.

In my role as Community Builder, I spent time door-knocking to connect with residents who might not have heard yet and shared the news online to help link everyone together.

The day felt like a great success, with lots of households taking part — some selling, some giving things away — and a good turnout of people walking the trail. Many people said how enjoyable it had been and that they’d love to do it again, while some who had missed out said they hoped there’d be another chance to get involved.

Here are a couple of the lovely comments shared by those who attended:

“I’m well impressed with today – I got some great things and spoke to neighbours who I’ve never spoken to before.”

“When I talk to my friends, I don’t hear of any other streets like this where so much is happening for people to get together with neighbours and a WhatsApp group. I feel so happy and proud for being part of the Community Champions. Thank you!”

The Jumble Trail showed the connections that can grow from a small idea and a few local people sharing their creativity, enthusiasm and neighbourliness. It was a simple idea that brought people together in a really lovely way.