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A unique event was held over the weekend of 13 to 15 October in the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel in commemoration of both the 100^th Anniversary of Pangbourne College and the 35^th Anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands.  

The Flower Festival, entitled ‘Century of Change’, not only encompassed the floral artistry of over 12 flower clubs and more than 65 individuals from around the South East, but also provided an excellent platform to showcase inspiring pieces by Sixth Form artists. College artefacts, both old and new, were skilfully integrated into the displays.

Ms Emma Rennie, parent of two Old Pangbournians, visited the event and said, “Flower Festival doesn’t do it justice – the hard work put into the displays was stunning. It was spiritual, artistic, creative and the overall impression breath-taking.”

Much of the Festival was accompanied by live music from the Steinway grand piano. The repertoire included Chopin, Schubert, Schumann, Salad Days, and music from the 1920s, including ‘Tiptoe through the Tulips’, and some Noel Coward.

A tea room run by the Pangbourne Parents’ Association was another key element of the weekend. Led by PPA Chairman, Mrs Paula Read, and with delicious food, the location was a perfect distance from the Chapel and provided an ideal space to reflect and discuss the spectacular exhibits on display.

Chairman of the Flower Festival Committee and also a parent of two Old Pangbournians, Mrs Sadie Clare, thanked everyone who participated in making the weekend such a great success. She gave a special mention too to the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire (BB&O) area of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS), who played a key role in helping to promote the event.

“The atmosphere over the weekend was tremendous,” said Mrs Alex Garnier, current parent and Festival Committee member. “More than 1,200 people visited the Festival and were able to learn more about the Chapel and the school.  The neutral colours of the Chapel lend themselves well to an exhibition.  The presence of so many flowers presented so beautifully captured well the essence of this very special ‘living’ memorial and many found the experience very moving."