Events and Initiatives
MAY FESTIVAL
The Festival is usually held on the third weekend in May (either Saturday or Sunday).
For more details view the May Festival Page.
NEW DRINKING FOUNTAIN
A drinking fountain was installed on the Common in the 1890s by public request. It was in use until the mid 1970s when during drought it was turned off, and then vandalized. The plinth where it stood and the water supply still remained for some time, right in the centre of the Common.
In autumn 2005, WSCUG commissioned a local sculptor, John Fortnum, to do sketch designs for a new drinking fountain –one that could be used by adults, children and dogs. John’s designs have since been exhibited for comments at WSCUG meetings, at the May Festival and at St John of Jerusalem Church.
The Finished FountainIn autumn 2006, Hackney Parks agreed to fund the new fountain with money received from the lottery.
The new fountain was unveiled on May 16th 2010 at the annual May Festival.
The design is a creative sculptural solution, a column based on the shape of a falling water droplet hitting a surface, captured by high speed photograph. It is made of cast iron and cast concrete, set in a paved circle, and is surrounded for protection by a ring of small bollards shaped like animals. The water spouts on pressure of a button, and collects at ground level for dogs to drink. There is also a concealed tap nearby for use filling containers to water young trees on the Common.
Related Document: http://www.hackney.gov.uk/well-street-common-management-plan-2010-2015.pdf
OTHER INITIATIVES
WSCUG also organises Carol Singing during December and raises funds for initiatives and projects which can benefit the common and it's users.