NEWS
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY CELEBRATES 100 YEARS WITH SUCCESSFUL KENT COUNTY SHOW
The 92nd Kent County Show , taking place in the centenary year of Kent County Agricultural Society ( KCAS ) – the charity which organises the annual event – has been hailed a success by organisers .
Building on the success of the 2022 event , and retaining its focus on agriculture , animals and education , visitors benefited from an increased number of livestock entries , a greater number of equine competitors and more trade stands , heritage vehicles and floral displays to explore . As part of the centenary celebrations the event hosted His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent , a longstanding patron of the Kent County Agricultural Society .
As part of its commitment to supporting new businesses and start-ups , new for 2023 was the inclusion of a dedicated area entitled New Kent Road where visitors could discover handmade and bespoke products , crafts and gifts .
Commenting on the success of the show , Julian Barnes , chairman of the Kent County Agricultural Society said : “ It has been a great honour to lead the society into its 100th birthday , as we continue to showcase everything that the rural sector has to offer to the county ’ s economy . In planning the event , we were determined to keep to our rural heritage , whilst providing an affordable family day out that was both fun and informative . On all of these points I feel we have succeeded . As always , the event would not happen without the support of our army of volunteers , all of whom give up their time so selflessly , the generosity of our sponsors and the dedication of our operational team .”
The dates for the next Kent County Show are Friday 5 , Saturday 6 , and Sunday 7 July 2024 .
NOBODY DOES IT BETTER – BOND THEMED LEEDS CASTLE CONCERT A CAPTIVATING SUCCESS
Showcasing phenomenal soloists , the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra , a captivating Spitfire flyover and fireworks displays to the castle backdrop , this year ’ s Leeds Castle Concert was a sight to behold .
Commencing with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra opening the tribute to the iconic 007 brand , enthralling the crowd with the unmistakable James Bond theme , the castle was surrounded by iconic Aston Martins while Ann Jane Casey ’ s powerful rendition of ‘ Goldfinger ’ mesmerised the audience , followed by a captivating duet with Tim Howar performing ‘ Live and Let Die ’ accompanied by an awe-inspiring field gun displays . The spectacular lineup also included acclaimed soprano Heagee Lee and esteemed tenor Nicky Spence OBE .
Reflecting on the event , John Rigby remarked : “ It was truly amazing to be back at Leeds Castle for an enchanting summer evening of musical splendour ! This year ’ s concert showcased an unprecedented breadth of musical styles , ensuring there was something for everyone in attendance . I eagerly look forward to next year ’ s event – it truly is an extraordinary experience !”
Early bird discounted tickets for next year ’ s concert on Saturday 13 July 2024 are on sale now .
BLUEWATER LAUNCHES BABY FEEDING COLLABORATION WITH FRAUPOW TO ENHANCE FAMILY FACILITIES
Bluewater has partnered with leading baby feeding experts , Fraupow , to upgrade its baby feeding spaces at the shopping centre as part of a new programme to improve the experience for shopping parents and provide the ultimate family day out .
The collaboration will create more functional , family-friendly areas for parents to relax while feeding and spending time with their young children with new amenities such as complimentary access to ecofriendly reusable breast pads , electric bottle warmers , supportive feeding cushions and signage with free access to virtual midwife support for pregnancy and postpartum advice .
James Waugh , centre director at Bluewater , said : “ We ’ re consistently looking at new ways to surprise our guests , attract new visitors and go above and beyond what people expect from a day out at a shopping centre .
“ Families make up such a big part of our visitors , and we know from our guest research that they need practical and comfortable spaces to support their day out . This new collaboration with Fraupow will ensure our spaces are helpful , welcoming and enjoyable for the whole family to have a great experience , every time they visit .”
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