Author Archive: Carmen Harper
New pedestrian crossing installed on Dawley Road
The new pedestrian crossing on Dawley Road
Residents across the parish are benefiting from improved road safety following the installation of a new pedestrian crossing on Dawley Road.
The new crossing represents an important investment in making the area safer and more accessible for pedestrians and road users alike.
Councillor Emma Holding said: “As a Parish Councillor and resident of Lawley Village, I’m really pleased to see this improved pedestrian crossing now in place on Dawley Road.
“This is a busy main road and a well-used pedestrian route, so having a safer, more accessible crossing will make a real difference for residents, families, schoolchildren and everyone travelling through the village.
“It’s a significant step forward for road safety, giving people greater confidence to cross safely and making our community a safer and more accessible place for everyone.
“I’d like to thank everyone who helped make this important improvement happen.”
The Parish Council would like to thank Telford & Wrekin Council for installing the crossing and helping to deliver this important improvement for the community.
PSA screening event sees 260 men prioritise their health
Councillor Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, completing his test
Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, in partnership with the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, hosted a successful PSA screening event on Monday 15 June 2026, with 260 men from across the county attending for a potentially life-saving blood test.
The event highlighted the importance of early detection, with attendees taking a simple PSA blood test that can help identify potential prostate health concerns at an early stage.
Lawley and Overdale Parish Council and the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group would like to thank everyone who attended and took this important step for their health.
Councillor Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, said: “It was incredible to see so many men come together to take a simple but important blood test.
“As someone who has a personal connection to this cause, I also joined members of the community in taking the test. It was great sitting in the waiting area, recognising so many familiar faces and seeing people chatting and supporting one another.
“This event also helped raise awareness of a disease that affects thousands of families every year.
“Events like this show the power of our community, working together to break down stigma and encourage open conversations about health.
“I would like to thank everyone who attended, as well as the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, volunteers and phlebotomists, for making such a positive impact.”
Dennis Briggs, a member of the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, said: “We would like to thank Lawley and Overdale Parish Council for their support in helping us organise and host this screening event. The turnout was fantastic and it was encouraging to see so many men taking the opportunity to have a test that could make a real difference to their lives.
“As a registered charity, we rely heavily on the generosity of local people, volunteers and our partners to continue providing awareness campaigns, screening events and support for those affected by prostate cancer. We were grateful that more than £1,000 was donated on the night and every contribution will help us continue this important work across Shropshire.
“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in the UK and early detection is crucial. Events like this not only help identify potential health concerns but also encourage conversations about prostate cancer and break down barriers that may stop people from seeking advice or getting tested.
“We are thankful to everyone who attended, donated or volunteered. Together, we are helping to raise awareness, save lives and ensure more men have access to the information and support they need.”
For those who were unable to attend, there are still opportunities to access PSA screening. Individuals can find information about upcoming PSA screening events or order a home testing kit to complete the process from the comfort of their own home. Find more information here: PSA Testing Events @ My PSA Tests
Anyone experiencing symptoms, concerns or changes to their health is encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional for advice and support.
Local people encouraged to volunteer and make a difference in their community
As Volunteers’ Week celebrates the people who give their time to support communities across the UK, Lawley and Overdale Parish Council is encouraging people to get involved in local projects and activities across the parish.
The Parish Council is seeking volunteers of all ages and backgrounds to support a range of initiatives, including community events, environmental projects, community initiatives and other activities that help make the parish great.
Councillor Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, said: “Volunteers’ Week is an opportunity to recognise the difference people can make when they give their time, skills and enthusiasm to causes they care about.
“I would like to thank everyone who has volunteered with the Parish Council in the past, as well as those who continue to support us today. Without our volunteers, many of the activities, events and community projects we deliver would not be possible.
“We are always looking to welcome new volunteers. Whether you can spare a few hours each year or would like to get involved more regularly, there are plenty of opportunities to make a difference.”
Volunteering offers a range of benefits, from meeting new people and developing new skills to helping shape local initiatives and improving the area for everyone.
The Parish Council hopes that Volunteers’ Week will inspire more people to explore ways of supporting projects across the area. They are particularly looking for volunteers to support the programme of community events throughout the year, with roles including assisting activities, helping with traffic management, litter picking and supporting event teams.
Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities with the Parish Council is encouraged to contact enquiries@lawleyoverdale.org.uk or call 01952 507865.
Residents invited to free prostate health screening this June
Picture: Councillor Mark Boylan completing his PSA test at a previous event
Men aged 40 and over in the Lawley and Overdale Parish Council area are being encouraged to attend a free prostate health screening event this June to support early detection and help save lives.
A free PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing evening will take place on Monday 15 June 2026, from 6pm to 9pm at Lawley Community Centre.
The event is being hosted by Lawley and Overdale Parish Council in partnership with Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group.
Appointments must be booked in advance via timed slots, and no walk-in appointments will be available. Appointments are expected to fill quickly so eligible men are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out.
A PSA test is a simple blood test that can help identify potential prostate issues early, including prostate cancer, often before any symptoms appear. Detecting problems early can make a significant difference to treatment options and outcomes.
Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in men in the UK, with around 1 in 8 men diagnosed during their lifetime. In many cases, there are no early symptoms, meaning men may feel completely well while still having the disease.
Councillor Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, said: “I’m proud that the parish council is supporting this vital service. I have had the test myself and can confirm it is a simple procedure that takes only a few minutes but could save your life.
If you are a man aged 40 and over, please consider booking an appointment and making PSA testing part of your regular health checks especially if you have a family history of prostate cancer, are of Black ethnicity (a higher risk group), or have any concerns about your prostate health.
Even if you feel completely well, it is still worth checking. A PSA test takes minutes but can make a life changing difference.”
Dennis Briggs, a member of Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, said: “We are pleased to be working with Lawley and Overdale Parish Council to deliver this important service.
Prostate cancer is highly treatable when found early and bringing testing into the community helps remove barriers and encourages more men to get checked. We strongly recommend eligible men to take up this opportunity, even if they have no symptoms.”
The event is free to attend, with donations welcomed in support of the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, which provides non-medical support to men and families affected by prostate cancer and helps raise awareness of the importance of early testing.
Booking is essential and must be made in advance via: PSA Testing Events @ My PSA Tests
Alternatively, you can order a home kit via the website: PSA Testing @ SPCSG – Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group
Details about the PSA test and more information about Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, can be found on their website: PSA Testing @ SPCSG – Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group