Category: Community Events

By the tenant involvement team

On Saturday 31^st May 2025 at the Manor Fields in Maltby was the Maltby Community Festival. The focus of the event was to showcase the fantastic community groups and facilities there are in Maltby and showcase support and opportunities that Rotherham offers. The local ward councillors partnered with Flux Rotherham, Children’s Capital of Culture and Rotherham United Community Trust to provide exciting activities to encourage attendance.

Over 1100 people attended from the local area, plus Rotherham’s Mayor, MP Jake Richards and local ward councillors, to see The Great Bullzini and tight wire dancer Ronja Breuk recreate the story of the Alzana Family from Maltby https://www.facebook.com/Rotherham.FLUX/videos/706169079032732

Debra and Karen attended and had a stall that promoted all the Rotherfed projects and services. A shopping hamper was provided by the Money project, which contained typical family shop items purchased from Aldi. People could guess the price of the total shopping, with the closest person winning the shopping. The actual price of the shopping was £28.16 and two people both guessed £28, luckily, they were friends, so both decided to share the items between them.

By the tenant involvement team

The 80th anniversary of VE Day presented a significant opportunity for communities across the UK to come together in remembrance and celebration. In Swinton, Rotherham, the Swinton Community Focus group took the initiative to lead the local commemorations, aiming to create a memorable and inclusive event for residents. 

In preparation for the event day the group undertook a thorough cleaning of the precinct, ensuring a welcoming and tidy environment for attendees. The area was adorned with traditional red, white, and blue bunting and flags, instantly setting a celebratory tone. Local shops actively participated by decorating their windows, further enhancing the festive atmosphere. 

A wide array of stalls and activities were organised, offering something for everyone and encouraging active participation from all age groups. Crucially, the event benefited from the strong involvement of key partners, including Rotherham United Community Trust, Early Help, Elected council members, and Fitzwilliam Estate TARA as well as many others. 

A diverse program of entertainment was available on the day. This included the Kilnhurst Choir (joined by local schoolchildren), local singer Chantelle performing period hits, the Thorpe Hesley Brass Band, and the Wath Children’s Morris Dancers. There was specific activity created to engage young people that included a fancy dress competition, face painting, and activity sheets. 

One of the many highlights was the historical re-enactment through a table-top game that was delivered by a group of locals from a gaming group. This activity gave a unique perspective and insight into how an attack on a coastal town may have looked. 

The VE Day 80th Anniversary celebration in Swinton was a resounding success, serving as a powerful example of community spirit and collective remembrance. Approximately 1,500 people attended the event throughout the day, far exceeding initial expectations and demonstrating the strong desire within the community to commemorate this historic occasion. 

“Well done Swinton Community Focus Group and for the people of Swinton and surrounding areas for putting Swinton back on the MAP.” 

“It’s been fantastic, so good to see the place buzzing.” 

“It was fantastic day the children were terrific xxx.”