The first of the new annual Thornton Artisan Festival’s was held over the weekend of the 26th, 27th and 28th of June 2026 and raised £2,440.90 for the benefit of Thornton Community Centre. (More information can be found on previous posts).
The money raised will be put towards the upgrading of the heating systems in both halls which is old and failing and very expensive to run (the electricity alone is in excess of £4,000 p.a.).
Following on from this success an application has been made to the National Lottery to fund 41 solar panels on the roof of the Centre to start our journey into becoming energy efficient and carbon neutral as funds allow.
If you have any spare cash and would like to help the trustees fund a number of projects to enhance the facilities at the Centre (new heating, decked area, car park extension) for the benefit of the community for years to come then donations can be made through the following QR code.
There was a paper quiz held over the festival weekend which closed last weekend. 50 cryptic clues to find Leicestershire Place names.
The winner of the £10 prize was Sue Black with 49 correct answers. Congratulations.
This quiz is copyright of Gill Tapping – but if you would like to use it as a local fund raiser then please contact me and make a small donation to Thornton Community Centre. I have a number of this type of quiz written over recent years.
A new fund raising quiz on sweets and chocolates will be out soon. Cost £1. If you would like a copy when it is ready – email: – thorntonvillage@aol.com.
Thornton Artisan Festival will be back next June 2027 – the 25th, 26th and 27th
Thornton is preparing for a fantastic weekend of celebration, creativity and community spirit as the village launches an exciting brand-new annual event at the end of June.
From Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June, Thornton Community Centre will burst into life with three packed days of entertainment, arts, crafts, music, food, family activities and fundraising fun — all designed to support the Community Centre while bringing the whole village together.
The festivities begin on Friday evening with the welcome return of the hugely popular Celtic band Govannen. Famous for their energetic performances and infectious atmosphere, the band promises an unforgettable evening of lively music, dancing and great fun.
Dancing may not be compulsory — but organisers warn it’s very difficult to resist!
A licensed bar will also be available throughout the evening, making it the perfect start to an exciting community weekend.
On Saturday and Sunday, the Community Centre transforms into the vibrant Thornton Artisan Festival, running from midday until 5pm on both days.
Visitors can explore a wonderful gallery of local artists, photographers and talented craft makers showcasing unique handmade creations and inspiring artwork. There will also be plenty to entertain younger visitors with children’s crafts, activities and interactive fun throughout the weekend.
One of the festival highlights will be a fascinating astronomy talk from BBC Sky at Night presenter Pete Lawrence, alongside the magical world of Sarah’s paper and toy theatre.
Live music, quizzes, raffles, delicious food and drink, plus a packed programme of entertainment ensure there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Entry to the festival is completely FREE, although donations to support the Community Centre will be warmly welcomed.
To make visiting easier, organisers are also providing a convenient Park & Ride service from South Charnwood High School directly to the Community Centre.
Organisers have also thanked Pallex for sponsoring the event and helping make the festival possible.
With music, creativity, entertainment and community spirit at its heart, the inaugural Thornton Festival Weekend looks set to become one of the village’s most anticipated annual events.
Make sure it’s in your diary — Thornton is ready to celebrate!
Thornton, transitions from spring to summer with plenty of excitement this year. Several events are scheduled at the Community Centre beginning at the end of May and continuing through June, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
On Friday 29th May the Community centre will host 2 performances by Sarah’s Paper theatre, of the Golden Goose , a light hearted adventure with a happy ending, suitable for all ages. Entry for adults £5 and £2 for children.
A brief respite before the Markfield and Thornton theatre group presents a stage adaptation of the Vicar of Dibley, by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter based on the original tv series written by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew. Produced by Tiger Aspect Productions. A beloved British comedy; the plot centres around Geraldine Granger, a lively and unconventional vicar who surprises the sleepy village of Dibley by taking over—despite the parish council expecting a male vicar. Much of the comedy stems from Geraldine’s encounters with the eccentric locals and the humorous clash between her progressive views and their traditional ways. The play runs from Wednesday 10th to the 13th June. Tickets £8.
Sunday the 21st June sees the return of the beloved biennial Open Gardens. A number of gardens will be open between 1pm and 6pm. There will be refreshments, stalls and other attractions around the village, a plant sale, and cream teas available at the Community Centre. Admission is by programme, available at various locations around the village. Programme £5. Organised by Friends of St Peter as a fund raiser for the maintenance of the church.
On the following Friday evening, the 26th June, Govannen, one of the UK’s leading folk groups, return to Thornton for another magical evening of Celtic music at its best. There will be a licensed bar provided by McSmith Events. Tickets £20. Raising funds for a new heating system at Thornton Community centre.
The month concludes with the first of what is hoped to become an annual two day artisan festival at the Community centre. The centre is open from midday to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday 27th and the 28th June, The main hall will feature artwork and photography, whilst the sports hall features crafters and makers, and childrens’ crafts. Outdoors there will be food stalls, a bar, and live music. Donations welcome. Raising funds for a new heating system at the Centre.
A Celebration of Community, Creativity, and Local Talent
Residents and visitors alike have two fantastic weekends to anticipate in June 2026, as Thornton gears up for a pair of remarkable community occasions.
Open Gardens Returns
On Sunday 21st June, the much-loved biennial Open Gardens event will make its return. This cherished community gathering offers a unique chance to explore some of Thornton’s most beautiful gardens and celebrate the area’s horticultural talent.
Introducing the Thornton Artisan Festival
The following weekend, from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June, Thornton will host the inaugural Thornton Artisan Festival. This new annual event aims to highlight and celebrate local creativity and the vibrant community spirit that defines the area.
Thornton Artisan Festival 2026: Celebrating Local Creativity and Community Spirit
Festival Overview
Set to take place at the Thornton Community Centre and Grounds on Main Street, the Thornton Artisan Festival 2026 is poised to become a highlight of the summer calendar. Organised by the Community Events Committee and supported by local artists, crafters, and residents McSmith Events, the festival is designed to bring the community together for a three-day celebration of art, craft, food, and entertainment.
Festival Goals
The festival’s primary objectives are to showcase local talent and independent businesses, foster a sense of community pride, attract visitors to the area, and provide support for small creative enterprises and local food producers.
All profits generated will go towards funding a new central heating system for the Community Centre, an essential upgrade requiring £24,000 to replace the existing, failing 53-year-old installation.
What to Expect
Festival organisers promise a lively and inclusive atmosphere. The Community Centre and its grounds will be transformed into a hub of creativity, featuring:
Featured Artists Gallery: The Main Hall will host a curated exhibition of local art, photography, and sculpture.
Craft & Makers Market: The Sports Hall will showcase handmade goods from talented artisans and independent creators.
Artisan Food & Drink Zone: Outdoors, local producers will offer quality food and refreshments.
Children’s Zone: Activities and entertainment tailored for younger visitors.
Community Gallery Wall: A space for residents to display their creative works.
Live Music: Performances throughout the weekend to enhance the festivities.
Festival Opening and Entry Details
The festival will commence on Friday evening with a special ticketed performance by renowned Celtic music band Govannen. Tickets are priced at £20 and must be booked in advance via thorntonvillage@aol.com. Tickets are selling fast – don’t delay in booking yours!
Daytime entry on Saturday and Sunday will be free. Funds will be raised through stallholder fees, sponsorship, advertising, programme (£1) and a community raffle. Organisers are actively seeking prize donations and sponsorship from local businesses, which offer valuable promotional opportunities and directly contribute to the Community Centre’s improvement.
Get Involved
Artists, crafters, entertainers, food vendors, and sponsors are encouraged to participate in this exciting new community venture. Those interested in booking a stall, donating raffle prizes, or becoming a sponsor can request further details and a booking form by contacting thorntonartisan@gmail.com.
The village’s spacious community centre and sports hall stand as a testament to the commitment and hard work of residents and fundraisers from the late 1960s and early 1970s. At that time, the village was experiencing growth yet lacked suitable venues for communal activities. Doctors, clubs, and other groups were forced to meet in private homes and public houses, highlighting the need for a dedicated gathering space.
In 1969, with the opportunity to access new land and the backing of the Parish Council, Reverend John Seymour and a committee initiated fundraising efforts and began planning for a community facility. Their dedication culminated in the construction of the main hall in 1973, built on leased land—a practice that continues to this day.
Further fundraising made it possible to add a separate sports hall, which was officially opened in September 1988.
Management of the Community Centre
The community centre is overseen by a dedicated team of unpaid volunteer trustees. These individuals play a pivotal role in maintaining and managing the facility, ensuring it continues to serve as a valuable asset for the village. New members are warmly encouraged to join the trustees, helping to safeguard this wonderful resource for the benefit of future generations. To facilitate the centre’s smooth operation, the trustees convene one evening every six weeks, addressing any issues and planning for ongoing improvements.
Revenue and Funding
Recent Improvements and Expenditure
In the aftermath of the Covid pandemic, the community centre has undergone a significant transformation, with numerous enhancements made to modernise the 53-year-old building. Essential works included the installation of a new drainage system and a new ceiling in the sports hall, the addition of extra toilets and a second kitchen, and the upgrade of lighting to energy-efficient LED fixtures and more. These improvements were crucial to ensure the centre remains functional and fit for purpose. Over £98,000 was invested to carry out these necessary works, with the drainage and ceiling repairs emerging as urgent priorities that were not part of the original plans but became essential to keep the centre open.
Future Projects and Urgent Needs
Planning permission was successfully obtained for the creation of a decked area at the rear of the centre and the extension of the car park. Although efforts are underway to secure funds to complete these projects, the centre is currently facing a more urgent requirement: replacement of the heating system in the main hall. This system, now 53 years old, has developed multiple leaks beneath the wooden floor in recent months, making its renewal a pressing priority for the remaining funds.
Sources of Revenue
The community centre depends almost entirely on payments and donations from regular user groups, fees from hiring the centre for parties and events, a modest annual precept from the parish council, and occasional small grants from local businesses. These sources form the backbone of the centre’s income and are vital for ongoing maintenance and improvements.
Appeal for Community Support
With fuel bills continuing to rise, the centre urgently needs support from the community in the form of donations to help sustain and further enhance its facilities. Every contribution, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated and will help ensure the centre remains open and accessible for all.
How to Donate
If you are able to contribute, please consider donating to the Thornton Community Centre fund. Donations can be made to the following account: Please use the reference ‘donation’.
By popular demand Govannen are back in Thornton in June 2026.
They will be playing at Thornton Community Centre on Friday 26th June as part of a big fund-raising weekend for the Centre.
Space is limited at the Centre, so to avoid disappointment – email thorntonvillage@aol.com to reserve your tickets now.
Looking for the perfect Christmas present? Why not treat your loved ones to tickets and give them something to look forward to in the summer.
Thanks to local residents – McSmith Events – we are now able to offer a licensed bar for Centre events.
Who are Govannen?
Govannen – are one of the best Celtic music bands in the UK, blending jigs & reels with traditional & contemporary Irish songs. They celebrated 30 years together in 2024.
Concerts – a Govannen concert is a special mix of traditional & contemporary music & songs, delivered with good humour.
Ceilidhs & Barn Dances – Govannen are the perfect choice for ceilidhs and barn dances for weddings, functions and parties, where the emphasis is on fun.
Albums – Ranging from atmospheric Celtic chill-out music to live pub recordings, Govannen have sold over 10,000 albums worldwide. Two of their albums have won awards in the USA. “Govannen play with passion, artistry and an easy going good humour, each in good measure for a night to remember” – Time Out
Govannen – Dan Britton – vocals, guitar, bodhran Adele McMahon – violin, vocals Chris Conway – keyboards, Irish whistles, vocals Roger Wilson – violin, vocals Neil Rabjohn – percussion, vocals. + Ray Jane – dance caller, flute, tin whistle
This will be their fourth visit to Thornton – the band loves playing here, and always receive a very warm welcome. They are delighted to be instrumental in helping to raise much needed funds for the centre.
The next major works is the replacement of the 52 year old central heating system in the Main Hall, the old pipework has begun to spring leaks under the main hall wooden floor – big money required!
Thornton Artisan Festival – Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June 2026
Preparations are being made to follow the Friday evening event with the first Thornton Artisan Festival, hopefully to become an annual event to replace the old Thornton Carnival.
The Thornton Artisan Festival 2026 will be a two-day community celebration (12 midday to 5pm) showcasing the best of local creativity across art, photography, sculpture, craft, and food; with a strong emphasis on local artists, crafters and food producers; interspersed with entertainment for all.
If you have any ideas or would like to be involved please contact us on … thorntonartisan@gmail.com
Thornton Community Centre Comedy Night– 11th October
Four local residents have approached the trustees at the Centre with exciting plans to bring regular comedy nights to Thornton.
The first Comedy Night will be on Saturday 11th October 2025 with four stand up comedians, Philip Simon, James Ellis, Charmian Hughes and Gavin Webster.
Comedy Hotspot only bring the very best comedians to their shows, and our show at Thornton Community Centre is no exception. A line up of varied styles, who are all hilarious in their own right. Add a wonderful audience to that and it only means one thing, a superb night of live comedy. We will run the evening like a professional comedy club, ensuring we have the best possible atmosphere and conditions for live comedy. We cannot wait to welcome you to what is going to be a great Comedy Hotspot Comedy Event.
There will be a licensed bar at the centre. A raffle – prizes include a £60 voucher for the Coach and Horses Inn, Markfield, table for 10 at Bistro Live and a hamper from Everards Beer Hall.
A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to the Centre towards the maintenance of the Centre
Unreserved Seating – Late comers will have to sit in the empty seats remaining, irrespective of their location. All audience members will be required to sit in the designated seating area. You are buying a ticket for the show, and not to see a specific act. Refunds are not given because of line up changes.
For more information on the acts please see the links below.
It’s the first Sunday of the month, 6th July and so, as usual, it is the …. C𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗳𝗮𝘀𝘁 –
𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲.
Breakfast, (full English, Continental or both) is served from 9 to 10 am, with activities for everyone.
This is followed by our breakfast church service from 10.15.
Everyone is welcome.
There is no charge for the breakfast, though donations are welcome.
This week’s service will look at St Peter, to whom our church in Thornton is dedicated, and whose ‘feast day’ was at the end of June. The service is being led by Pauline.
We have a couple of other notifications for you:
The funeral of our dear friend, Phil Reader, will be held in St Peter’s at 2.30pm on Thursday 24th July.
This will be a celebration of Phil’s life and the family have asked that people dress accordingly – in colourful, rather than sombre, clothes.
A forward notice, too, for Sunday 13th July – we have visiting preacher Jacob Hussain joining us on for our J22 service!!
Exciting! Spread the Word!
Back to this weekend and we do hope you are able to join us this Sunday at the Community Centre!
I’d like to start by looking at our achievements throughout the year.
Achievements:
Sports Hall Kitchen and Toilets Upgrade:
The work was contracted to TLB Construction Ltd and what an excellent job they’ve done. In addition to the existing disabled toilet, we now have two unisex toilets complete with wash hand basins and dryers, and a modern fully fitted and functional kitchen. These added facilities will hopefully make the premises more attractive to potential hirers and feedback from users and members of the public is very positive.
Sports Hall Replacement Acoustic Panels and Re-decoration:
The existing acoustic panels in the Sports Hall have been replaced by up-to-date panels installed by Sound Reduction Systems.
TLB Construction did an excellent job of taking down the existing roof and wall soundproofing and re-installing a flat ceiling prior to the new panels being fitted.
An excellent job also by Dave Goodburn, our local painter and decorator who finished the project by painting the hall throughout.
Our thanks go to Gill Tapping who project managed the whole process and kept everything running smoothly.
Main Entrance Front Door Replacement:
After many years we finally said ‘Goodbye’ to the old doors which had become shabby, slightly damaged and had a problem with the locking mechanism. Again, Gill project managed this in conjunction with TLB Construction Limited who organised the work through a qualified double glazing company.
Future Projects:
To provide decking at the rear of the hall – although plans were submitted to Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council Planning Department in 2023 this is currently on hold due to insufficient funds at this time.
To extend the existing car parking – plans have been submitted for this too but, as the estimated cost is prohibited given our funds, will not go ahead for the foreseeable future
To replace existing chairs and trolleys in the main store room.
Challenges:
Currently, as we don’t have funds to take on the above and/or any other projects, our focus need to be on applying for available grants, promoting the Centre as a multi-purpose venue, e.g. wedding, parties, business use etc. so we all need to work towards those ends.
Finances:
Our finances have been excellently managed throughout the year by our Treasurer, Tadeusz Dobrowolski, allowing us to continue to maintain the fabric of the building and to make purchases to improve facilities for its users. Despite the financial support given by grant from the Parish Council for 2025 remaining at the same allowance as the previous year this will continue to reduce by £1,000 per year so we need to be self-sufficient and financially supported by 2030. Our thanks go to Andy for his diligence in questioning our energy contracts and sourcing the most financially beneficial deals.
Bookings
Our on-line Hallmaster booking system is regularly used by hirers and administered by Kate Sketchley who continues to do a fantastic job following up bookings and addressing queries, plus organising Trustees for opening and closing the Centre for hirers (including taking many of these on herself).
Our local websites – Thorntonvillage.com and Facebook – are managed and regularly updated by Gill Tapping and Amy Bakewell thus providing us with new opportunities to advertise the Centre’s facilities and events.
Our thanks go to all three mentioned for their commitment, help and enthusiasm in promoting the Centre.
Health and Safety
Weekly checks continue to be done on fire alarm points and monthly checks on emergency exits and lighting.
Annual PAT testing on all relevant electrical appliances has been completed.
Annual gas safety testing has been completed throughout the Centre.
In conclusion:
Finally, I would also like to thank the following:
all the trustees for their continued support;
Gill Tapping – project management and applying for and obtaining a number of grants throughout the year;
Alex Docherty of Sound Reduction Systems – Sports Hall sound proofing;
Dave Goodburn, Painter and Decorator;
Tim TLB Construction Ltd.;
Jon Loseby of Losby Lectrics – statutory and ad hoc electrical testing;
Tom Orme of Charnwood Heating Services – statutory gas testing, plumbing tests, plus ad hoc repairs.
Mary Gibson,
Chair of Trustees.
22nd May 2025
New Chairperson and Vice ChairThornton Community Centre
At the AGM, Mary Gibson stood down as ‘Chair’ after a 5 year term of office.
The trustees thanked her profusely for presiding over the many improvements at the Centre especially post Covid and for all her hard work in overseeing the day to day running of the Centre.
At the AGM Dan Smith was elected as the new Chair, and Delia Geary the Vice Chair, of the Community Centre Trustees – we wish them well in continuing to oversee all the improvements, renovations and repair work and day to day running at the centre.
Although most of the work has been completed there is still more to be done.
Urgently required are fund raising ideas for the centre – we need to replenish our depleted reserves to get the decking and car park extension built, the kitchen/toilet flooring replaced and new tables and chairs and trolleys purchased. COULD YOU HELP TO SECURE THE FUTURE OF THIS WONDERFUL VILLAGE RESOURCE? – Then please contact the trustees – thorntonvillage@aol.com
Tuesday 22nd JulyVILLAGE WALK ***meet on The Green (opposite the Methodist Church) from 7.15PM for a 7.30PM start ***
Join us for a walk of discovery, looking at the history of Markfield. This will again be part of the Festival of Archaeology.
We will explore part of the old village, encompassing the lower and upper Green, lower Main Steet, Forest Road and Queen Street. Providing a glimpse into village life in times past, we will pick out notable older buildings, together with more recent changes and the expansion of housing over the years.
There is no charge for the walk which will last for approx. 1 hour – all are very welcome.
Tuesday 16th September MAINTAINING AND REPAIRING BRITAIN’S HISTORIC BUILDINGS DAVID SLEIGHT
Find out how Britain’s historic buildings and monuments are protected and repaired as part of our heritage, to protect them for future generations to enjoy and cherish.
David worked for English Heritage for many years and now has his own building conservation business.
Tuesday 18th NovHISTORY OF MARKFIELD QUARRIES COLIN SHARPE
Granite has been quarried locally at least as far back as Roman times and has shaped the landscape. Commercial quarrying started at Hill Hole in the 1850s and at Cliffe Hill in the 1870s, employing many people. Some innovations made the national and international news.
Colin is a member of our history group and will tell us about the history of the quarries in Markfield and the surrounding area.
Annual membership is currently £8 for individuals and £14 for couples/ families. This includes all the talks during the year, so no extra to pay. Non-members are asked to pay £3 on the door at each talk. Please note these fees are subject to change at the AGM in January.
All meetings are at Markfield Methodist Church, Main Street (Opposite The Green) at 7.30 unless otherwise stated.
Thornton 