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SHEPHERD NEAME EXPANDS ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING POINTS AT PUBS ACROSS SOUTH EAST
Shepherd Neame , the independent family brewer and pub company , is accelerating its commitment to sustainability by installing electric car rapid charging stations at six of its pubs in the South East . Partnering with Osprey Charging , these stations , powered by 100 % renewable energy , aim to promote cleaner transport and support environmental goals .
With 15 rapid charging points already operational at sites including Singleton Barn in Ashford and The Wharf in Dartford , Shepherd Neame plans to extend the initiative to more locations including The Marine Hotel at Tankerton and The Spitfire in Kings Hill by the summer ; points have also been installed for use by team members at its Faversham Brewery .
Shepherd Neame ’ s head of professional property services , John Barnes , says : “ As a company , we are committed to doing the right thing for our environment and our investment in electric charging points across our estate is part of that strategy . They not only help promote cleaner transport but offer an additional service for our customers .
“ All of the sites chosen have big car parks perfect for the installation of the charging points and are conveniently located for drivers at key points across the country near major road systems . We have seen a great response with lots of new customers visiting our pub while they charge their car . A rapid charge typically takes around 30 minutes depending on the car , so it is the perfect opportunity to pop in for refreshments while you are waiting .”
The electric charge points are just one of a series of initiatives as part of Shepherd Neame ’ s ‘ People , Pubs , Planet ’ campaign , which has a trio of ambitious environmental goals including net zero carbon emissions and zero waste to landfill .
BLUEWATER ANNOUNCES DEBUT FOOD FESTIVAL WITH CELEBRITY CHEF LINEUP
Bluewater is gearing up for its first ever food and drink festival taking place over the late May bank holiday weekend . Teaming up with Scrumptious Food Festivals , the event , which will be around 12,000 sq ft , is set to be one of the largest in Kent , promising celebrity chef demonstrations , artisan markets and a vibrant street food scene .
Taking place from May 25 - 27 , the festival will sprawl around the marquee outside the village , offering an array of global flavours from street food vendors . With the Big Cookery Stage showcasing celebrity chefs from The Great British Bake Off and beyond , guests can expect culinary delights and cookbook signings .
James Waugh , centre director at Bluewater , says : “ Here at Bluewater , we are constantly looking for new ways to engage with our guests and enhance their experience , so we ’ re pleased to be hosting the inaugural Scrumptious Bluewater Food Festival this summer .”
Co-founder , Lotte Duncan of Scrumptious Food Festivals , adds : “ We can ’ t wait for guests to try all the delicious dishes . We ’ re still taking applications for all types of stall holders , so please get in touch .”
Stall holder applications for food vendors can be made at scrumptiousfoodfestivals . co . uk / stall-holder-application-2024 , while small businesses interested in exhibiting in the Humble Country shopping marquee can apply at www . humblecountry . co . uk .
STEP UP FOR THE SUPER 60 CHALLENGE WITH IMAGO
Imago Community , a social action charity based in Tunbridge Wells , celebrates its 60th Anniversary in 2024 with a call to action to raise much-needed funds through its Super 60 challenge .
Over the past 60 years , Imago has empowered people across Kent , Medway , East Sussex and South London , reaching over 33,000 individuals . Their services range from supporting young carers to aiding adults in increasing independence and tackling loneliness . As part of their anniversary initiative , the charity is inviting individuals , families and groups to undertake Super 60 challenges - anything related to the theme of 6 , 60 or 600 - to raise awareness and funds .
Louise Griffiths , head of development , says : “ We are appealing to individuals , families , friends , colleagues and community groups to take on a Super 60 challenge and help us to support those who need us . Choose anything to the theme of 6 , 60 or 600 – you could take on 60 press ups a day for 60 days , or bake and sell 60 cupcakes . Anything goes ! Simply pick a challenge and raise sponsorship and donations . Any funds you raise really will make a difference , supporting children , young people and adults in our community .”
Challenges , big or small , can be undertaken throughout the year . To get involved , visit www . imago . community / super60 or contact the fundraising team - supportus @ imago . community .
164 • www . insidekent . co . uk