News Full-circle moments and community memories as hundreds celebrate 25 years of Maidstone River Park
Hundreds of residents and visitors gathered in Whatman Park on Saturday 18 July for a special celebration funded by Maidstone Borough Council marking 25 years of Maidstone River Park.
The free event was officially opened by the Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Brian Clark, and featured live music, dance and entertainment from Invicta Jazz Orchestra, Kent Soul Choir, Jack Harrison, Hilton Hall Dance Academy, Greenwood and Tow Rag, alongside family activities, stalls and magician Mark Wood.
In between acts the audience enjoyed expert compering from Chris Chedzey who introduced the programme of events which had been carefully put together by Kent Arts and Wellbeing.
The event celebrated the silver anniversary of Maidstone River Park, a project that has transformed the River Medway corridor into a network of parks, wildlife habitats and open spaces enjoyed by millions of visitors over the past quarter century.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, members of the public were invited to share their memories of the park through a competition to win VIP tickets and a specially prepared hamper.
Thanks to the support from media outlets, including BBC Radio Kent and Kent Messenger, the hunt for handprint holders was amplified with people far and wide sharing their connection with the park from when it was opened.
Among the VIP guests were sisters Charlotte Gilham and Alice Bright (née Gilham), who recreated a photograph taken beside their childhood handprints when the park first opened 25 years ago.
Fellow VIP ticket winner Bradley Atkinson also returned to visit his handprint and reflected on recognising many of the names etched into the plaques, not from the day the handprints were made, but from growing up alongside them in Maidstone. A reminder of how a generation of local children came of age together, with Maidstone River Park forming part of their shared story.
Representatives from the San Fairy Ann Cycling Club also attended the celebration. The club, which has sponsored a commemorative plaque in the park, shows how Maidstone River Park's impact extends beyond individuals to community groups that have embraced and supported the space over many years.
Ian Tucker, Chair of the Maidstone River Park Anniversary Committee, said: "Maidstone River Park has been shaped by the people who supported it from the very beginning, and this anniversary is about celebrating those connections.
"It was wonderful seeing people have their full-circle moment, returning after 25 years and sharing their memories of the park. Whether it was revisiting childhood handprints, reconnecting with family history or celebrating friendships and community groups, the stories we heard throughout the day were incredibly special.
"Seeing hundreds of people come together to enjoy the music, entertainment and beautiful surroundings was a fitting way to celebrate 25 years of nature, community and heritage. The anniversary has reminded us that Maidstone River Park is much more than a collection of green spaces, it is a place where memories are made and communities come together."
Councillor Stephen Thompson, Cabinet Member for Healthier, Stronger Communities, said: "It was a pleasure take part in this celebration and see so many people enjoying everything Maidstone River Park has to offer.
"The atmosphere throughout the afternoon was fantastic, with families and friends coming together to enjoy the music, activities and beautiful surroundings. Hearing the stories from those who have grown up with the park and seeing the affection people have for it was particularly moving.
"Maidstone River Park is one of the borough's greatest success stories. It has transformed our riverside, created opportunities for wildlife and recreation, and provided a space where generations of residents can make lasting memories. It was an honour to be part of marking this important milestone."
The anniversary event forms part of a wider programme celebrating 25 years of Maidstone River Park, recognising both the transformation of the river corridor and the lasting impact it has had on the people and communities who continue to enjoy and support it today.
- Find out more about Creative Maidstone’s River Park art exhibition here.
- More on the River Park sketch and cruise event here.
- Free bandstand concerts begin in Brenchley Gardens this weekend, you can find out more here.