Special Events
Grand Launch
The sun came out on the 14th of July to shine over a day of fun which celebrated the launch of the Thomley Activity Centre. The day marked the culmination of over half a million pounds and 15 months of hard work setting up the project.
The site was officially opened by actor Jeremy Irons who was eager to speak to parents and children (and sign some autographs!). Over 400 people were in attendance including children, parents, teachers and other proffesionals from Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. Children enjoyed the bouncy castle, barbeque, fire engine, juggler, face painting, music and clown.
Halloween
At the end of October, we welcomed over 50 children to join our Halloween celebrations. The Centre was decorated with pumpkins, cobwebs, witches and ghosts and everyone participated in apple bobbing, fancy dress, art and craft, slime making and pumpkin carving.
As darkness fell over the site, over 20 young adults joined us for our Halloween disco in the listed barn.
Birthday Party
In November we opened our doors to our very first birthday party. More than 40 children explored the site, bounced on the bouncy castle and filled the canteen with sandwiches, cake and the loudest rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’!
Barn Dance
Thomley Activity Centre also played host to the annual K.E.E.N. Barn Dance. Over 50 children and their volunteers took part in farmyard art and craft activities, dancing and traditional country music from the live band.
Parents Plus Fun Day
Towards the end of November, the rain dried out in time for the arrival of 90 children and their families for the Parents Plus Fun Day! Everyone bounced away on two bouncy castles, tested their balance on the gladiator joust, took part in interactive story telling and transformed our art and craft room into a gallery of bright and colourful paintings.
Sponsored Sleep Over
On the evening of the 29th November staff and trustees braved the abandoned 18th Century Manor house which lies on top of Thomley Hill. Without heating, water or electricity their only comforts were their sleeping bags and the knowledge of a hearty breakfast the next morning. The flashing lights and creaking doors experienced that evening would appear to confirm local folklore that the Manor house is haunted by the ghost of the mysterious Lady in Grey. In recognition of their couragous efforts, sponsorship was collected.
Christmas Party
Christmas time at Thomley was filled with lots of festive fun – Santa and his little helpers guided our visitors through his grotto, art and craft activities, calendar making, tree decorating and a canteen filled with mince pies and mulled wine!
Pantomime Mania
Spring Half term saw over 40 children taking part in a whole range of pantomime themed activities including dressing up, interactive story telling, making a finger puppet theatre, drama workshop and a performance of "Puss In Boots" by the Thomley Staff!
Copyright 2003 Thomley Hall Centre Ltd
