In the summer of 1944, as the end of the war approached, the residents of Uley and Owlpen began collecting funds for returning service personnel. By the conclusion of the war, a substantial amount had been raised. After considerable village discussion, the returning service men and women were given the option to choose between receiving a monetary sum, attending a celebratory meal or party, or establishing a village playing field. At that time, cricket was played in the field above the Walled Garden and football was played at Newbrook Farm. Unselfishly the service men and women opted for the creation of a village playing field. Consequently, land in Shadwell was acquired for the benefit of the entire village, and a small pavilion was constructed shortly thereafter. Following additional fundraising efforts, the current pavilion was inaugurated in 2013

The field was named the ‘Memorial Playing Field’ in honour of those villagers who had died. In 1990 13 trees were planted around the field in memory of the 13 local servicemen who were killed during the War. A Service of Commemoration was held at the time. Unfortunately, over the years, the original plaques bearing the names of the servicemen have suffered from the weather or gone missing and two of the trees have died.

The Uley Memorial Playing Field and Pavilion is a wonderful village asset, but the costs of the upkeep and maintenance have grown (currently £8.5K pa). The volunteer management committee strives to raise enough money through fund raising events, the 100 Club, Pavilion and Playing field hire and some local grants. Other money is sourced through subscription fees from the Uley Cricket and Football players at a time when they are often struggling to find players.

The goal of the Appeal is to raise funds for the upkeep of the Pavilion and Playing Field, and to ensure there are 13 healthy memorial trees with name plaques of a more enduring quality that are properly positioned and maintained. Additionally, we hope that the Appeal will increase awareness of the Uley Memorial Playing Field and promote its use as a valuable village amenity. Uley Parish Council has already approved a donation to fund the replacement of the memorial plaques for which we are grateful. But we need more.

This is a ‘once-only’ Appeal to coincide with the 80th Anniversary of VE Day to pay for much needed work on the Memorial trees, Playing Field and Pavilion building. Our target for this appeal is £5,000

We would be most grateful for your support and we urge you to give generously.

Thanking you in advance for anything you can give to help our cause .

The Uley Memorial Playing Field Committee