Kent Equality Cohesion Council was proud to work in partnership to deliver the Wrotham Festival of Light which took place on Friday 15th October. The event returned after a 2 year absence. The festival brought exciting outdoor culturally diverse art to a rural, community setting, connecting communities both young and old alike.

n the build-up pupils at Saint George’s Primary School created lanterns around the themes of friendship, local heroes, community and tolerance working with Same Sky.

The first half of the festival saw attendees come together outside Saint George’s Church to enjoy performances by culturally diverse artists. Then followed the Lantern Parade led by special guests including Deputy Lord Lieutenant Nadrah Ahmed OBE and Deputy Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Sue Bell. The parade went through the village which was decorated by wonderful natured themed light installations. The festivities climaxed at the Cricket Ground where the crowds were dazzled by a spectacular fireworks display by Phoenix Fireworks.

Gurvinder Sandher the CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented “It was so great to see so many people out supporting the Wrotham Festival of Light. Before Covid the festival had become really popular and if anything, we had even more people join us today which is a real positive. Events like this bring communities together and promote a sense of community and belonging and I am proud of what we have achieved.”