Southern Culture
Did You Know?
Rowing
The Leander Club at Henley-on-Thames is the world's oldest and most renowed rowing club. Founded in 1818, the club moved from London to Henley later in the 19th century because of the importance of the annual Henley Regatta. The Leander Club colour is pink.
Outreach at the Vyne, Hampshire
Thrive is a national charity, founded in 1978, that makes use of gardening to change the lives of disabled people. About three years ago, Thrive started working with the National Trust at The Vyne in Hampshire, sending two volunteers, Karen and Ryan, to work in the garden to gain experience for their NVQ Level 1 in Horticulture. After completing their course, Karen and Ryan have now moved on. Stephen and Colin are now volunteering in their place. However, it is a testament to the success of the scheme that Karen continues to work at The Vyne as a volunteer in her own right. The volunteers from Thrive gain confidence and social skills whilst at The Vyne. They are able to use their time there as a stepping-stone to employment and greater participation in community life. The gardening team at The Vyne also benefit. They were given training by Thrive and feel a sense of achievement that they have given something back to the community by helping the volunteers to increase their life skills.