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HOPE NATURE CENTRE CHANGES
H
ope Nature Centre, an Animal Park and Café set in 15 acres of Southwick Country Park just outside Trowbridge, are continuing with their investment plan following three months of closure due to COVID-19. Fairfield Farm Trust, the charity which operates Hope Nature Centre, were given the go ahead to re-open in late June, with a host of safety measures in place. Throughout the closed period, the team worked tirelessly improving the site, including the building of a brand-new Rabbit & Guinea Pig Village, alongside many improvements to animal enclosures and plenty of land management.
rave reviews from excited young adventurers. “We’ve been delighted by the support of visitors who have returned and helped support this very special project and charity” said David Gillingham, Commercial Manager for Fairfield Farm Trust.
The Centre is also celebrating being a 2020 Travellers’ Choice award-winner for visitor attractions in the UK. To find out more, and to book tickets, visit the website. • hopenaturecentre.org.uk
Lockdown provided an opportunity for lots of improvement works to be carried out at Hope Nature Centre
The ‘jewel in the crown’ of these investments is the brand new £35,000 adventure play area which opened in mid-August to
SOCIALLY DISTANCED GRADUATIONS
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airfield Farm College was able to host their 2020 Graduation, albeit slightly different from the normal experience. Delivering education in ‘bubble groups’, social distancing and plenty of hand sanitizer, students at Fairfield Farm College had to quickly adapt to a Fairfield Farm College students enjoyed a socially distanced graduation ceremony
new normal within their learning environment. Unfortunately, the schedule of summer events which normally includes a Reunion BBQ, their Summer Country Fayre and more all had to be cancelled. Staff at the college knew there was
one event that couldn’t be cancelled though, so they developed a safe way for students to celebrate all their hard work. With 12 students in attendance at the ceremony, just one member of their family was able to join them. Students and guests were treated to an inspirational presentation from wheelchair tennis player and two-time Paralympian, Louise Hunt. Students were then able to collect their certificates and framed photos of them enjoying their time at the college. Those who were not able to attend were able to watch a live stream of the event, whilst students across the college also watched in classrooms so they could clap and cheer for their peers. • ffc.ac.uk
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