The River Festival 2019

Picture copyright Pershore Times – Issue 44 – October 2019

It seems like ages ago but the River Festival really did bring a Beach Party to the town in July. This year’s Festival was a great success, thanks to a great deal of work by the committee members and support from the Avon Navigation Trust. We are grateful to be the beneficiaries of this event and that local people recognise the importance of the Centre as a focus for young people. Youth group sessions take place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, plus ongoing tailored support, life- skill sessions, career advice and counselling.


On the river, South Worcestershire Life Saving Club, Avon Navigation Trust, Pershore Greyhound Dragon Boats and the Maritime Volunteer Service provided demonstrations, boat trips and a chance to have a go; coordinated by Alex and Kim from Bonkers.

King George’s Field offered stalls, pony rides, a funfair, bouncy castle, exotic animals, circus skills, duelling and dance! After all that excitement the food stalls and beer tent provided much-needed refreshment, with musical accompaniment. The Centre itself was a haven of calm with people enjoying teas on our outdoor terrace, overlooking Punch and Judy, magic and zorbing. Due to the generosity of the donors, the Luxury Raffle was very popular, raising more than £1000.

In August we hosted a quiz night to raise funds for Sunday Club. £140 was raised, which will be used to provide more activities for children and families who enjoy coming to the club as part of Worcestershire County Council’s Short Breaks Service. This was an evening full of fun and laughter.

The Centre is dependent on such fundraising events, donations and income from room bookings and parties in order to continue to provide vital local support for young people. To support our work, please sign up to Easy Fundraising
https://www.easyfundraising.org. uk/panel/ nominating Pershore Riverside Centre as your chosen cause. Then, when you shop online the retailer will send us money – at absolutely no cost to you! Help us to benefit from the profits of Amazon, John Lewis, Boots and hundreds more. Trustees and the young people who use the Centre have a simple request: ”Come back in 2020!”

Anyone interested in taking part next year come to the open meeting of the River Festival to find out more – on 16th October at 7.30pm at the Town Hall.

Article published in the Pershore Times – Issue 44 – October 2019