Three days of fund-raising in aid of the Community Centre.

Thornton’s first artisan festival placed a strong emphasis on community involvement.

The weekend started with a packed house at the Community Centre on a scorcher of an evening with the temperature in the 30’s, but that didn’t stop the audience dancing away to the sounds of Govannen, one of the UK’s foremost folk & Ceilidh bands.

A quick turnaround on the Saturday morning, saw the very small team of volunteers set up the Centre ready to receive the artists and crafters, before the doors opened at midday.

Our local Primary School children and Thornton playgroup took part, displaying some beautiful artwork, the Primary school’s interpretation of Van Gogh’s sunflowers was much admired. Local vendors proudly showcased their art and handmade creations, with some spectacular glassware and other beautiful craftwork. Not forgetting the fabulous cake stall and home crafted beer on Sunday…

A highlight was the free puppetry workshop and performances by Sarah, based in Thornton. Sarah is a celebrated British puppeteer and maker specialising in the historical art of Paper theatre. Sarah is one of a small number keeping this traditional form of miniature, Victorian-style storytelling alive in the UK. She both inspired and engaged the children (and adults) with her shows over the weekend.

Another key attraction was a series of talks by local resident, the BBC’s Sky at Night presenter, Pete Lawrence, which drew in people of all ages and encouraged them to take an interest in the upcoming sky events during July and August, the eclipse and the possible sighting of the rare noctilucent clouds. Which, as luck would have it I actually saw and photographed from my bedroom window in Thornton that very same night.

For the ‘older’ visitors (the retired and semi retired and those approaching retirement) our local Glenfield U3A showcased two of their over 40 activity and interest groups – the Ukulele group played a 40 minute set on stage and the very popular photography group showcased some of their beautiful work. A wonderful organisation – u3a is one of the largest membership organisations in the UK. Our members come together to learn for fun in retirement. Through u3a, members make friends and find community.

The festival atmosphere was enhanced by wonderful weather and easy-listening live music and a couple of routines by comedians.

In support of the Community Centre, McSmith Events provided and fully staffed the licensed bar throughout the event, with proceeds from the bar contributing to the Community Centre.

In addition, we arranged and liaised with all of the entertainment acts and provided the PA system for the entire weekend free of charge.

We were delighted to support the event and help make the weekend a success for the benefit of the Community Centre.

Visitors enjoyed simple pleasures like pizza and chips, or ice creams in the sunshine, along with free garden games available throughout the weekend.

Even the two local white ponies popped along to see what was happening and enjoyed refreshments from the dog bowl, to the consternation of the dogs in the queue for water.

What made the event even more special was that it was entirely organised by a small team of dedicated volunteers who freely gave their time and effort throughout the year to make this successful and bring back fun for all ages to Thornton. One of the team, resident, Alexia Claire, a wildlife illustrator, gave up many hours to design some stunning artwork for the posters, programmes and childrens puzzles, giving the festival a very professional look; and Coral from the local playgroup was there throughout to help with the childrens’ paintings and activities. Some residents were so inspired by the local ‘buzz’ and teamwork on show that they have asked to join the team next year.

Whilst hoping to raise much needed funds for the Community centre it was more about bringing the local community together and showcasing the facilities available at the Centre, which was clearly achieved.

The team would like to thank Pallex and Tithe Green Natural Burial, who sponsored the event, and advertisers Thornton Playgroup, Thornton Nurseries and Coffee shop, Showtime Circus, Dave Goodburn (painter and decorator), Thornton Corner Shop, Alexia Claire (wildlife illustrator), Hillmarco farm, Markfield and Thornton theatre group, DJ garden maintenance, Sarah’s Paper theatre and TLB Construction Services Ltd.

They would also like to thank those that donated raffle prizes, especially the generous £50 travel voucher from Roberts Travel Group. and a £35 voucher from the Fieldhead Hotel.

Raffle winners are:

Air fryer – pink 146 – Pat.
Cheese – pink 381 – Victoria Hill.
Bottega bottle – yellow 46 – Sue Pope.
Bottega Bottle – yellow 26 – Maureen Shaw.
Wine – pink 211 – Angela B.
Keyring – yellow 306 – Martin.
Farmyard set – green 81 – Tom.
Beer set – yellow 396 – Gibbs.
Balance Bike – bright pink 196  – Eamonn.
Reservoir print – green 1 – Hazel.
Painting – bright pink 206- Steph.
Jewellery set – yellow 121 – Kerry.
Paint by numbers – yellow – Tony.
Stationary set – pink 391 – Sophie.
Greeneking voucher – blue 1 – Stephen Homes.
Greeneking voucher – Pink 101 – Lucy
Greeneking voucher – Bright pink 376 – Marie c/o Mary Gibson.
Robert’s £50 travel voucher – pink 246 – Becky.

The festival will be back next year – we know some mistakes were made and some things could have been done better. We’ve learnt from those mistakes, so watch this space ..

We welcome any positive feedback and suggestions for the future and if you would like to be involved please contact us through thorntonvillage@aol.com