This year, Bradeley Village proudly celebrates a remarkable milestone, 30 years since the late Queen Elizabeth II visited the community to commemorate its opening as one of the first purpose-built villages of its kind in the country.
To honour the anniversary, residents came together to host a special celebration event, welcoming local councillors, the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, and residents who still remember meeting Her Majesty during her visit three decades ago.
The day was filled with celebration, including afternoon tea, a buffet, and a ceremonial cake cutting led by the Lord Mayor, who also delivered a speech marking both the village’s anniversary and the city’s centenary year.
The event was organised by residents and volunteers Wendy and Val. Wendy said, “It’s great to get everyone together to celebrate. The Queen’s visit was such an important moment in our history, so we wanted to honour the milestone, remember the day, and celebrate everything the village has achieved since.”
Val added, “We worked hard to make this happen. We spoke to the team about putting on a buffet and invited our local councillor, Gurmeet Singh Kallar, and the Lord Mayor, Steve Watkins.”
Reflecting on life at Bradeley Village, Val said: “I’ve been a resident for 14 years, and I love it. The best part is feeling safe and the strong sense of community. We always look out for one another. It’s lovely to see so many residents celebrating together today, remembering the Queen’s visit and everything that’s happened since.”
Several residents who were present on the day Queen Elizabeth II visited were treated to a VIP table, complete with the village’s finest china, a nod to the area’s pottery heritage. Among them were Doreen, Beryl and another Doreen, who fondly recalled the excitement of the visit.
Doreen shared her memories: “The Queen came because Bradeley Village was the first of its kind when it opened. We were introduced to her and she was so lovely, so petite, with beautiful eyes.”
“They rolled out the red carpet. The whole place was in tight lockdown with police and dogs searching the grounds. It even snowed! The gardening team had to clear the paths and car park early that morning to make sure it was safe for her arrival.”
“She toured the whole village, including the shop, restaurant, hair salon and bar, and made such an effort to speak to everyone. It really was a historical moment for the area.”
(Pictured: photos of what Bradeley looked like before the village was built)
Doreen also reflected on life before Bradeley Village existed: “Before the village was built, it was just ordinary streets with houses. When work began, we watched it develop from the ground up. I still have photos from the building process! When it was finished, moving in felt wonderful. We’ve been here over 30 years now, and it’s been lovely to be surrounded by incredible people.”
Resident Carol, who has lived at the village for nine years, said the event captured everything special about the community: “It’s been lovely celebrating together. I’m local, so it means a lot to mark such an important milestone. The community here is wonderful, and nothing is ever too much trouble. You feel so safe, and everything you need is right on your doorstep.”
(Pictured: Residents Carol and Florence)
Carol also spoke fondly of the friendships made since moving in with her husband: “We were worried at first because we didn’t know what to expect, but everyone made us so welcome. My husband joined the gardening club, and it brought him out of his shell. We’ve never looked back.”
Resident Linda, who lived and worked at the village before becoming a resident herself, shared her own story: “I worked here as a cleaner for over 20 years. After having a stroke, I moved in, and I love it. I even met my fiancé here. He moved from Cardiff to be nearer family, and after getting to know each other, the rest is history.”
“I’ve also volunteered in the bar, bistro and shop. This community has given me so much, and I wanted to give back.”
The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent praised the village during his visit: “It’s wonderful to be here during the city’s centenary year and to celebrate such an important 30-year milestone for this community.”
“I’ve met so many lovely residents and staff, and it’s clear how thriving and supportive this village is. It really is a testament to the people who live here. With such a strong community for people over 55, I can see why this is such a special place.”
(Pictured: Honeycomb Group Executive Director of Operations Mary Walker, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent Steve Watkins, Neighbourhood Manager Julie Sisk, and Councillor Gurmeet Singh Kallar)
Mary Walker, Executive Director of Operations at Honeycomb Group, attended: “It was great to celebrate alongside our residents today. The Queen’s visit was a national milestone, recognising Bradeley Village as one of the first of its kind.”
“Since then, we’ve never stopped working to provide a community where residents can thrive, both in their own homes and in our shared spaces. It was wonderful to see so many people, including the Lord Mayor and local councillors, joining in today’s celebrations.”
As we celebrate 30 years of community, why not see it for yourself? Discover Bradeley Village today at: www.staffshousing.org.uk/bradeleyvillage
