The 13th of November marked a milestone for Aldingbourne Country Centre as we proudly launched our Farm Development and Farm Educational Programme. The event, graced by the Mayor of Chichester, local businesses, farmers, and agricultural enthusiasts, was a celebration of our vision for the future.

In 2018, the Quarry Building at our Country Centre became the central hub of our site, hosting our shop, cafe, and conference facilities—all run as social enterprises. Now, with over 70,000 visitors this year, we're thrilled to announce the next phase: the development of our Open Farm.

Our plans include exciting new facilities like a Deer Park, Bird Aviary, Cherry Tree Farm, and a groundbreaking Educational Project. These additions will not only enhance our offerings but also create more opportunities for training and employment for adults with learning disabilities and autism.

We were honoured to have Robin Hobson as the keynote speaker, sharing insights into the importance of community involvement in projects like ours. John Pitts graciously welcomed guests and introduced other key figures, including Sue Livett, James, and Karen Tyrrell.

"It was brilliant to launch this new development for the Aldingbourne Country Centre. We are so grateful to everyone who came and showed such interest in supporting the project." said Abigail Rowe, Head of Fundraising at Aldingbourne Trust.

A cheque of £6,443 was presented to the Country Centre by Chets Modi on behalf of the NFU Mutual charitable trust towards education. We are immensely thankful for this donation towards our future plans.

Written by Lizzie Williams. For media inquiries, please get in touch at [email protected] 

The Friends of Aldingbourne Trust, a separate charity supporting the Aldingbourne Trust, is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a grant of £900 from The David Hunt Trust. This generous contribution is earmarked to sponsor Christmas meals for up to 30 people we support.

The awards ceremony, held at the Ham Manor Golf Club in Angmering on the 22nd of November, was a heartwarming celebration. The David Hunt Trust, founded in 2009 by businessman David Hunt, has been a consistent benefactor to local good causes and charities.

David Hunt, a former furniture business owner who relocated to East Preston over 20 years ago, has been utilising the proceeds from the sale of his business to contribute to numerous local causes. 

The Friends of Aldingbourne Trust, an independent charity established in 1995, stands steadfast in its commitment to supporting and championing the important work of the Trust. Their work promotes independence, inclusion, and the well-being of individuals with learning disabilities and autism. Find out more about Friends at www.aldingbournetrust.org/friends

Written by Lizzie Williams. For media inquiries, please get in touch at [email protected]