Nearly 3,000 people packed into West Malling High Street for the midsummer Malling Awareness Day (MAD) and Farmers’ Market on Sunday 27 June. 

At the event, Malling Action Partnership – whose first success was the revival of the market – was officially launched along with its new community website (www.malling.org.uk) by John Davies, the newly retired Chairman of Kent County Council. 
 
The Malling Action Partnership Launch, sponsored by Smart Film and Media, included an African drumming troupe, the ‘Best Dressed Vegetable’ competition, face painting and a MAP project information point.  Tens of people visited the partnership’s stand and took part in the interactive drumming workshops and 15 young people entered the ‘Best Dressed Vegetable’ competition; won by Abbigale Mckeown.  As well as winning this competition, Abbigale was presented with a family ticket to the Kent County Show by John Davies’ wife, Christine.
 
Thirty plus Farmers’ Market stalls, organised by Market Manager Steve Woods, were joined by a three live cookery demonstration from TV chef Richard Phillips, executive chef and co-owner of local restaurant The Hengist, and his team.
 
Local retailer, Tim Baldock, who organised the Malling Awareness Day (MAD) element of the day’s event, attracted 20 community stands run by local clubs and societies to showcase their local activities. He said: "This is to show local people what a lot there is on offer to enjoy in the area."
 
Launching the Malling Action Partnership, John Davies said: "Communities don't just happen.  It needs local people to join together and support local businesses and events like this fantastic event today. I encourage everyone to come along and join in, and if you can volunteer for whatever takes your fancy, our local community life will be better for us all."
 
Also demonstrating good taste was none other than celebrity couple, Richard and Judy, who were snapped taking a leisurely stroll around West Malling!
 
 
For more information about the Malling Action Partnership (MAP), please contact Kate Mair, MAP Project Coordinator.
Phone:             01795 478 401
Email:              This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
 

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