11/09/2026
Glorious Sunshine and Global Flavours Crown Cotswold Grange Garden Fête a Huge Success
The grounds of Cotswold Grange were bathed in glorious sunshine on Saturday, 5th September, as the community came together for a highly successful garden fête hosted by Stroud Mencap & Stroud and District Homes Foundation. The vibrant event drew an impressive crowd and raised vital funds to host a spectacular Christmas party for the home's service users.
Attendees including local MP Simon Opher were treated to a spectacular culinary spread that blended traditional fête classics with an exciting array of international cuisine. Beside the ever-popular burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream, visitors lined up to sample freshly made wood-fired pizza, rich Jollof rice, sweet fried plantain, and savoury noodles. A spectacular array of homemade cakes, baked and donated by supporters and staff, also proved to be a massive hit, selling out fast before the afternoon drew to a close.
Entertainment was in high demand across the lawns. Children and families enjoyed an array of lively games, vibrant face painting, and temporary glitter tattoos. The craft stalls showcased remarkable creations from Gill Gyde, Pat Blake & Stroud Homes own ‘sentiments’, cards and sticker fun, while the heavily stocked tombola stalls kept excitement levels high, with hundreds of prizes handed out throughout the day. A grand raffle also drew massive crowds, with visitors eagerly buying tickets to win a fantastic selection of prizes generously donated by the community.
Organisers expressed their deepest gratitude to the volunteers, local businesses, and visitors who contributed to the day's triumphant atmosphere. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the community, planning can now officially begin to give the service users a truly magical and memorable Christmas party this December.
Special thanks to: Gill, Gyde, Annette Blake, Puzzlewood, Lobby’s tackle, Stroud Bowl, Graham Collins, John Kerry & Sons, Thai 2 Go, Caitlyn Brown, Dean Forest Railway, Café Max, The old Crown, Terry Bray, Kibou Restaurant, Nick Holywell and staff, friends & Trustees.
