On Saturday 15th April, Orpington celebrated Easter with a spectacular Easter egg hunt! Accompanied with a petting zoo, both the children and parents thoroughly enjoyed the day and were reluctant to leave once it had finished. The event lasted from 10am to 3pm and it was located in The Walnuts Centre.

Many children were excited to meet the baby rabbits, pygmy goats, chicks and donkeys which were situated in the petting zoo. They had the opportunity to stroke the animals and countless pictures were taken. One seven-year-old girl who attended the event explained that ‘it was amazing, I loved it so much!’

Furthermore, a treasure map was provided to these young adventurers in which the locations of hidden Easter eggs could be found. However, it was not only the children but their parents who were seen to be enjoying the day as well! In fact, many were gladly participating in the events of the day. Once the treasure hunt was completed, a small prize was received, and, needless to say, an abundance of chocolate was eaten.

The event has been praised by the local community for being completely free. Everything, including the treasure hunt, petting zoo and balloons were free of charge. A local mum explained that ‘this is extremely beneficial for the community, especially to those who may not be in the best place financially. The Easter egg hunt has allowed some of their stress to be put at ease with a fun family day out.’ This view has been commonly shared throughout the community, especially with the significant amount of advertising which was undertaken in the lead up to the event.

Although Easter may be over, the people of Orpington continue to be truly committed to their community. Further events are currently being organised and methods in which they can be beneficial for everyone are in progress.

By Peheli Lekamwattage, Newstead Wood School for Girls