Exhibit 23








                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS



       As independent  auditors,  we hereby consent to the  incorporation of our
report, dated February 12, 1999, incorporated by reference in this annual report
of CFW Communications  Company on Form 10-K, into the Company's previously filed
Form S-8  Registration  Statements  File Nos.  2-65364,  33-31361,  33-45650 and
33-55745, 333-40751, 333-40753 and 333-45593 and Form S-3 Registration Statement
No. 333-17945.


                                                     /s/ McGladrey & Pullen, LLP


Richmond, Virginia
March 30, 1999