This summer, the teams at MAKE Art and Community revamped the Top Tots Nursery garden at the John Pounds Centre, creating a more inviting space for children to learn and grow. With garden time a key part of their routine, the little ones can now enjoy biking, planting, and exploring nature.

Top Tots requested a redesign to enhance learning, and our community group jumped right in. Emma Lennox led the team to clear overgrown areas while our Art group brought the wooden features to life with a fresh coat of paint. A local men's group, Men Shed, has also worked closely with us to create a new, more effective mud kitchen, which the nursery is ecstatic about and can't wait to use.

Suzie Forsyth, Area Manager of Top Tots Nursery, said, "The team has made amazing improvements and worked hard! We look forward to the final project and appreciate all your support!"

Thanks to strong teamwork and the community pulling together, the garden is becoming a vibrant environment for children to thrive. When asked how it felt to participate, Mark, who MAKE supports, said, "It's good fun working as a team. It makes me happy and feel good."

Special thanks to Film Crew 4u for documenting our journey. The Portsmouth-based video production company has been raising awareness of community-based projects. We're really grateful for their support.

Follow us on Instagram (@makealdingbourne) and Facebook (MAKE at Aldingbourne Enterprise) to see more of our journey and the garden's transformation. 

Written by Alice Mitas & Lizzie Senn. For any media inquiries, please get in touch with [email protected]​

We were thrilled to welcome couples to our first-ever Wedding Fayre at the Aldingbourne Country Centre. Our stunning venue on the edge of the South Downs offers the perfect backdrop, but together with a fantastic selection of local suppliers, we got to help inspire couples in planning their big day.

There were plenty of options, from talented photographers and cake makers to bridal boutiques and honeymoon planners. Custom suits to stylish wedding cars and even learning a special dance for their first moment on the floor as newlyweds. 

Lyn from Crafty Cakes said, "It was a great experience. All the staff were friendly, the couples were lovely, and it was great seeing a range of fab suppliers."

Couples explored the myriad ways they could personalise their wedding. And for those looking for a more traditional twist, there was even the option to hire a maypole!

Aldingbourne's Conference Sales Co-ordinator Kate Kerley shared, "It was such a wonderful afternoon with a great atmosphere. I enjoyed meeting and working alongside all of our amazing exhibitors, as well as greeting all the lovely brides-to-be and newly engaged couples. Thank you to everyone for the support with this event."

Planning your wedding? We’re excited to offer a unique venue for wedding receptions and celebrant-led ceremonies. To find out more or to enquire about how we can help you celebrate your special day, click here: www.aldingbournetrust.org/weddings.html

A big thank you to everyone who joined us. We can't wait to help more couples create unforgettable memories at Aldingbourne Country Centre.

Written by Lizzie Senn. For any media inquiries, please get in touch with [email protected]