Croxley Green street joins the Big Lunch (From Watford Observer)

Croxley Green street joins the Big Lunch

5:10pm Sunday 19th July 2009 in

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A 12-year-old boy in Croxley Green organised a street party today to encourage his neighbours to meet each other.

After spotting an advert on television for the big lunch, David Anderson of Beechcroft Avenue decided it was just what his street needed.

Organiser David explained: “We had a knock on the door one day saying a cat had been found under a car. No-one knew who it belonged to. A group of us gathered in the street.

“It made me realise how little we know our neighbours. So I thought a street party would bring us all together.”

The Watford Boys School pupil immediately drafted up letters to all his neighbours outlining the idea of the big lunch – an idea of the Eden Project which aims to pull the community together.

With the help of mum Linda, dad Ian and sister Rachel, the youngster organised and chaired three planning meetings at the local Harvester.

Each resident took on a responsibility with one side of the road preparing the food, while others organised the music, children’s games and most importantly the cakes.

A month later and the unsettled weather failed to dampen spirits in Beechcroft Avenue this afternoon as residents shared food, drink and conversation.

Six barbeques, more than 40 buns, 15 sauces and tables of salad lined the Croxley Green street.

A car had even been transformed into a diary room so young and old could record their memories of the day.

A proud David said: “I’m really pleased that it’s all come together. I hope everyone will get to know each other. I hope we can do this every year.

“We’re already talking about arranging something like this for Christmas.”

Mum-of-three Katie Gilbert said: “I’ve only lived in the street since April so before today I didn’t really know anyone. This has provided the perfect opportunity to bond with my neighbours.

“David has put so much hard work into this project. I really think people will meet up after today.”