NEWS insideSTORY
ST . EDMUND ’ S FESTIVAL ON THE HILL RETURNS FOR 2024
The stage is set for an exciting week-long celebration of music , art , drama and sports at the St Edmund ’ s Festival on the Hill , as the much-loved festival returns from 26 June - 2 July 2024 . This year holds special significance as St . Edmund ’ s School celebrates its 275th anniversary . Visitors can expect to experience a musical extravaganza highlighted by the talents of global sensation Curtis Stigers and the timeless melodies of the Pasadena Roof Orchestra , while the school ’ s talented students will take centre stage with world-class performances all week .
From a captivating art exhibition to thrilling sporting events and wellness workshops , there is something for everyone , with the festival , supported by festival partners Paul Roberts Canterbury and The Canterbury Auction Galleries , promising to be a unique blend of drama , creative arts and sporting spectacles with a touch of nostalgia , embodying the spirit of 275 years of excellence .
RUXLEY MANOR GARDEN CENTRE TRIUMPHS AT GCA AWARDS
Sidcup-based Ruxley Manor Garden Centre stole the spotlight at the prestigious Garden Centre Association ( GCA ) Awards for 2023 , clinching multiple accolades and solidifying their status as a horticultural haven . The celebration began as the team secured first place for Catering Excellence , boasting the Best Destination Garden Centre Restaurant in the UK . Adding to the triumph , they claimed second place for the Best Food Hall / Farm Shop and the Barton Grange Trophy for Commercial Innovation and Creativity , before also proudly clinching third place in the Outdoor Living , and the Environment & Community categories .
In a resounding testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence , Ruxley Manor retained their Garden Centre of Excellence title , rising from 10th to an impressive third place in the Best Garden Centre in the UK 2023 rankings , firmly establishing themselves as a beacon of gardening greatness .
PUDDLE DUCKS MAKE A SPLASH FOR A GREAT CAUSE !
Children from Puddle Ducks East Kent , North Kent and South East London recently dove into their swimming lessons wearing pyjamas to support The Oliver Steeper Foundation .
Founded by Puddle Ducks ’ swim teacher Zoe Steeper in memory of her son Oliver , who sadly passed away following a choking accident at nursery , the swim school was keen to get involved to raise vital funds for the foundation which aims to provide LifeVac anti-choking devices to early years Ofsted registered childcare settings .
During the thrilling Pyjama Week , the swim school raised an impressive £ 1,555.37 , with one dedicated swimmer , Orla , going the extra mile by swimming in a different pool every day .
Commenting on the initiative , owner of Puddle Ducks East Kent , North Kent and South East London , Victoria Rowley , said : “ Practising survival techniques in and around water is such an important skill for all children and so to combine that with being able to fundraise for a foundation so close to our hearts was really rewarding . I ’ m really proud of the amazing amount we raised that I know will go towards the supply of such an important piece of equipment in early years settings .”
Zoe added : “ I ’ m so grateful for everyone ’ s efforts during PJ week , it ’ s true testament to the wonderful families and team here at Puddle Ducks . The support they have shown towards me , my family and The Oliver Steeper Foundation has been truly overwhelming ”.
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