Kempston Climate Change Group has been busy the last few weeks, restoring a plant display to its former glory, decorating a tree for the Church of the Transfiguration Christmas Tree Festival and attending the annual Kempston Lights Switch-On event with a info stall.
The plant display in question is a tiered affair outside Kempston Library, which remained stocked with mud and moss but sadly no flowers. KCCG got to work removing the compacted earth, clearing out weeds and refilling the beds with soil and fresh bulbs, several kindly donated by Central Bedfordshire Council. Our littlest helper contributed by sweeping the area of dead leaves, while other members dutifully cleared the area of rubbish.
The patch now looks much tidier and thanks have been extended to the group by library staff.
Our second event, the Christmas Tree Festival, took place over the last weekend in November. Trees are brought to the Church and decorated by theme, before being displayed to the public who vote for their favourite. The competition was tough this year, with local schools, youth groups, religious and cultural clubs all putting trees forward. As usual, the Green Man Community Garden tree impressed – having been carved and constructed out of wooden planks in an artistic display of craftsmanship.
The Lights Switch-On, on the 30th, brought together local businesses, entertainers, young musicians and caterers for the ceremonious illumination of Kempston’s town tree in Saxon Court. Children enjoyed fairground rides while adults were able to purchase Christmas gifts and keep warm with hot drinks from any one of several local cafes. KCCG, meanwhile, set an example with a rolling litter pick throughout the event, using equipment bought with donations to the group.
After a busy period in the run up to the holidays, KCCG are looking forward to enjoying a bit of a rest before next year’s agenda is set in motion. Another SWISH event is likely to be in store, as well as a conservation walk along one of the footpaths into Wootton. As always, to get involved please fill out the form here – KCCG Membership Form and send it to info@kempstonclimatechange.org.uk .