insideKENT Magazine Issue 46 - January 2016 | Page 14

NEWS

ORPINGTON PARA-SWIMMER
BREAKS TWO EUROPEAN RECORDS
A young swimmer from Kent and his sponsors are celebrating success after
bringing home seven Gold medals and a two European records from the
European Championships.
19-year-old Billy Birchmore, who was born with Down’s syndrome, was
watched by the world as his 50m freestyle and 100m IM races were screened
live on RAI Sport. He picked up Gold medals in both of these races and
broke the European Record in the 100m IM race.
Billy, who is also GB team captain and flag bearer, played an integral part
to Team GB’s success as they finished 2nd overall in the medal table. He
finished with a total of seven individual Golds and one Silver medal as well
as two European Records under his belt. He was overall top male on points
and he was also awarded the Achievement Award voted for by the 25
competing countries.
Back home in Kent, Billy trains with Orpington Ojays, Sharks of Mottingham
and London Disability Swimming clubs. Behind him all the way is Billy’s
sponsors, top-20 UK accountancy firm Wilkins Kennedy, who donated funds
to enable Billy and his family to travel to the competition.

HEVER CASTLE RETAINS ‘FIVE STAR GOLD’ AWARD
FOR LUXURY B&B ACCOMMODATION

Hever Castle & Gardens in Kent has retained the
prestigious VisitEngland ‘Five Star Gold’ Award
for its luxury Bed & Breakfast accommodation in
the Castle’s Astor Wing. The recently refurbished
Anne Boleyn Wing, following its first assessment
since its launch in March this year, has also
achieved this accolade. Awarded to hotels and
guest accommodation in recognition of
exceptional quality, it is the highest rating and
accolade achievable.

The historic castle, best known as the childhood
home of Anne Boleyn, also boasts the VisitEngland
‘Breakfast Award’ for offering a quality breakfast,
superior service and hospitality that exceeds the
expectations of a Five Star Gold establishment.
Sales manager, Kate Rowbottom, said: “All the
staff involved in the Bed and Breakfast are
delighted to have retained this prestigious award.
It’s a well-deserved pat on the back for their

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commitment, professionalism and level of
customer care shown to guests, as reflected in
the kind words our guests leave on review sites.
Our team of chefs are also thrilled to have been
recognised for providing an award winning
breakfast – a most important component of every
Bed and Breakfast Stay.”