| There's always some form of entertainment for adults and families with young
children in South Woodham Ferrers. It's the teens and young singles who have aren't
really catered for. Teenagers, do what they always do when there is nowhere to go - they
hang about the town centre in groups. The pedestrianised precinct is ideal for
skateboards and the area around the Holy Trinity Church, Library and bandstand offers
places to sit. Inevitably there are complaints of rowdiness, litter and minor damage but
these are insignificant problems compared to many in other parts of the UK. Young people just have to
travel to Chelmsford, Basildon or Southend in search of large clubs and busy
nightlife. Own transport is essential since the bus service is infrequent, taxis
expensive, and nearby towns to get to by train because they're on branch or other train
lines.
However, if you're
satisfied with a quiz night, a game of bridge, a night out at the pub, the cinema, an
occasional performance from the local drama group or choirs then you'll be a happy
person.
For those with
their own cars, there is a huge variety of entertainment on offer in the surrounding
towns, all within about half an hours drive. London, with all its attractions
is only about an hour or so away by train and very easy to get to if you are able to drive
to Wickford on the main London - Southend line with more frequent trains.
The
Flix cinema in Market Square, South Woodham used to be a great place
to go to see movies. It initially closed and then the
land used to build retirement flats that have replaced the open
spaces in the centre of South Woodham Ferrers with high density
developments.
The
nearest cinema is now the UCI multiplex at Basildon Festival Leisure
Park (free parking), Tel: 0870 010 2030 and the Odeon in Chelmsford,
Telephone 0870 505 0007. Parking is available in a multistory
car park close by, but free parking is difficult to find in Chelmsford.
The Village Hall
has quite a lot on offer. In addition to its family entertainment evenings, bar and
numerous clubs, there are performances by tribute bands, dances and a variety of other
events. The large hall and rooms may be hired for all kinds of purposes, so there's
always something happening from craft exhibitions to performances by the local amateur
dramatics society. Tickets for various functions may be obtained from the Village Hall
Bar, Tel: 01245 324643
The South Woodham Ferrers Community Association
(S.W.F.C.A)
Located on the 1st Floor of the William de Ferrers Sports Centre in SWF town centre. Telephone (01245) 322882,
holds regular family discos in the William de Ferrers
centre. There's also Sky TV, pool, darts and function rooms for hire.
The CA bar is open to members from Monday to Saturday (and some Sundays). The Annual Membership Fee is £2 for adults and 50p for children. We have committee meetings once a month to discuss the CA activities and services and which organisations it should support. Currently we are looking at holding a members Halloween Party social event. All bar proceeds are donated to charities or to local associations. You are welcome to visit us at the bar and even attend a meeting if you have any ideas!
Other events are
organised from time to time by the town's clubs which extend an open invitation to
the general public. These events are usually advertised on posters around the town or in
the Focus or Informer.
The
residents of South Woodham Ferrers are a friendly bunch. Get
to know them.
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