Brit.news https://brit.news/ Independent British News Thu, 06 Feb 2025 23:27:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://brit.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/favicon.ico Brit.news https://brit.news/ 32 32 Young Artists Get Chance to Exhibit at Prestigious Motor Museum Exhibition https://brit.news/2025/02/06/young-artists-get-chance-to-exhibit-at-prestigious-motor-museum-exhibition/ https://brit.news/2025/02/06/young-artists-get-chance-to-exhibit-at-prestigious-motor-museum-exhibition/#respond Thu, 06 Feb 2025 23:27:31 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=955 A groundbreaking competition is offering young automotive artists the chance to exhibit alongside industry professionals at one of Britain’s leading motor museums. The British Motor Museum’s Young Artists Competition, launched today, invites entries exploring ‘the car and the environment’ across three age categories, with winners earning a spot in the upcoming Gallery 2025 exhibition. The […]

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A groundbreaking competition is offering young automotive artists the chance to exhibit alongside industry professionals at one of Britain’s leading motor museums. The British Motor Museum’s Young Artists Competition, launched today, invites entries exploring ‘the car and the environment’ across three age categories, with winners earning a spot in the upcoming Gallery 2025 exhibition.

The initiative marks a significant shift in how automotive art is being presented to younger generations, combining environmental awareness with motor heritage. Winners in each category – under 11s, 12-16 years, and 17-20 years – will receive not just exhibition space, but also career-building opportunities including one-on-one workshops with established artists.

“We’re seeing a growing interest in automotive art among younger people, particularly when it intersects with environmental themes,” explains Stephen Laing, Head of Collections & Engagement at the British Motor Museum. “This competition creates a platform for emerging talents to explore these ideas alongside professional artists.”

The Gallery 2025, opening April 4, will showcase works from leading automotive artists including John Ketchell and Emma Capener, with live art demonstrations planned throughout the exhibition. The addition of young artists’ work from May 29 will bring fresh perspectives to the traditionally adult-dominated field.

The competition’s prizes, sponsored by British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Patron Peter Mitchell and LifewithArt, include £50 art vouchers for each category winner. However, the real value lies in the mentorship opportunity, giving winners insights into both artistic technique and career development in the field.

Historic Car Art owner Rupert Whyte, who will help judge the competition, sees this as a natural evolution for automotive art: “Each year we introduce new artists to the exhibition, and 2025 will be particularly special with these young voices joining the conversation.”

The competition’s theme reflects growing concerns about environmental sustainability in the automotive industry, challenging young artists to engage with one of today’s most pressing issues. Entries open February 6 and close April 28, with the winning works exhibited until June 27.

For young artists interested in participating, the Museum has timed the competition to coincide with school holidays, giving participants ample time to develop their ideas during February half-term and Easter break. The exhibition itself will be accessible with standard Museum admission, with family tickets starting at £46 when booked in advance.

This initiative represents a significant step in bridging the gap between traditional automotive heritage and contemporary environmental concerns, while nurturing the next generation of automotive artists.

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Hospitality Group Makes Strategic Hires to Drive Digital and Sales Growth https://brit.news/2025/02/06/hospitality-group-makes-strategic-hires-to-drive-digital-and-sales-growth/ https://brit.news/2025/02/06/hospitality-group-makes-strategic-hires-to-drive-digital-and-sales-growth/#respond Thu, 06 Feb 2025 23:25:45 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=951 A Midlands-based hotel management company is strengthening its market position with two key appointments, signaling a renewed focus on both traditional and digital sales channels. Castlebridge Hospitality, which manages a portfolio of prestigious hotels including four Hotel Indigo properties across the UK, has appointed Rebecca Bozeat-Moanzi as Head of Sales and Zachary Lovelle as Social […]

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A Midlands-based hotel management company is strengthening its market position with two key appointments, signaling a renewed focus on both traditional and digital sales channels.

Castlebridge Hospitality, which manages a portfolio of prestigious hotels including four Hotel Indigo properties across the UK, has appointed Rebecca Bozeat-Moanzi as Head of Sales and Zachary Lovelle as Social Media Manager. These appointments reflect the company’s commitment to adapting to changing consumer behaviors in the hospitality sector.

What makes these appointments particularly interesting is the diverse experience the new hires bring to their roles. Bozeat-Moanzi’s journey to hospitality leadership took an unusual path – she began her career as a professional actress after graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. After transitioning through retail management, she built a 20-year career in hospitality, working with industry giants including Marriott, Hilton, and IHG.

The appointment of Lovelle as Social Media Manager highlights the growing importance of digital marketing in the hospitality sector. His previous success in increasing social media engagement by nearly 4,000% suggests a data-driven approach to digital marketing. His background in cognitive psychology and experiential learning brings a scientific approach to social media strategy – increasingly important as hotels compete for attention in crowded digital spaces.

“These appointments reflect the evolving nature of hotel marketing and sales,” says Scott Rankin, Group Operations Manager at Castlebridge Hospitality. “Success in today’s market requires both traditional hospitality expertise and digital innovation.”

The Leamington Spa company’s portfolio includes properties in key locations such as Birmingham Airport, Bath, Chester, and Stratford upon Avon. This geographic spread makes effective sales and marketing strategy crucial for reaching diverse market segments.

These appointments come at a time when the hospitality industry is seeing significant changes in how guests research, book, and experience hotels. The combination of traditional sales expertise and modern digital marketing capabilities suggests Castlebridge is positioning itself to meet these changing consumer behaviors head-on.

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AI Cameras Catch High-Rise Fly-Tippers in North London Estate https://brit.news/2025/02/06/ai-cameras-catch-high-rise-fly-tippers-in-north-london-estate/ https://brit.news/2025/02/06/ai-cameras-catch-high-rise-fly-tippers-in-north-london-estate/#respond Thu, 06 Feb 2025 23:22:58 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=948 Haringey Council has deployed advanced AI-powered cameras to combat the dangerous practice of residents throwing rubbish from tower block windows, with three £1,000 fines already issued since the technology’s introduction. The motion-sensitive cameras, first installed on the Broadwater Farm estate in November, have captured 11 incidents of aerial fly-tipping, with items being thrown from heights […]

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Haringey Council has deployed advanced AI-powered cameras to combat the dangerous practice of residents throwing rubbish from tower block windows, with three £1,000 fines already issued since the technology’s introduction.

The motion-sensitive cameras, first installed on the Broadwater Farm estate in November, have captured 11 incidents of aerial fly-tipping, with items being thrown from heights of up to 17 storeys. Objects discarded include gym equipment, furniture, and glass bottles, posing serious risks to pedestrians below.

“Our residents deserve safe and clean estates,” says Councillor Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning and Deputy Leader. “Littering from windows not only creates a serious nuisance but can also be extremely dangerous for others passing by.”

The technology, inspired by successful implementations in Singapore, uses sophisticated AI algorithms to differentiate between legitimate movement, such as birds, and actual instances of fly-tipping. Even small items like tissues can be detected when thrown from windows.

Addressing potential privacy concerns, the council confirms that the cameras are positioned to avoid recording into residents’ homes, focusing solely on detecting items being thrown from windows. This ensures that only those engaging in fly-tipping will be affected by the surveillance.

The installation at Broadwater Farm serves as a pilot project, with the council planning to expand the program to other estates following its initial success. This technological approach represents a significant step in the council’s efforts to maintain cleaner, safer living environments for residents while holding offenders accountable through substantial fines.

The initiative comes as part of Haringey’s broader strategy to combat anti-social behavior and maintain environmental standards across its housing estates, with the AI cameras providing a new tool in the council’s enforcement arsenal.

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Popular Board Game Bar DRAUGHTS to Open Third London Venue at Olympic Park https://brit.news/2025/02/06/popular-board-game-bar-draughts-to-open-third-london-venue-at-olympic-park/ https://brit.news/2025/02/06/popular-board-game-bar-draughts-to-open-third-london-venue-at-olympic-park/#respond Thu, 06 Feb 2025 23:20:59 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=945 London’s pioneering board game café DRAUGHTS is set to expand with a third location at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s 10-year history. The new venue, scheduled to open in Spring 2025, will be situated alongside major cultural institutions in the developing East Bank district. The expansive new location will […]

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London’s pioneering board game café DRAUGHTS is set to expand with a third location at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s 10-year history. The new venue, scheduled to open in Spring 2025, will be situated alongside major cultural institutions in the developing East Bank district.

The expansive new location will span 4,110 square feet across two floors, including a 570-square-foot covered terrace offering views of the London Stadium and Waterworks River. The space will accommodate over 150 guests indoors and an additional 40 on the terrace, making it the brand’s largest venue to date.

DRAUGHTS founder Nick Curci sees the Olympic Park location as strategic for the company’s growth. “Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park was the standout location for our latest venue, offering both bustling neighbourhood trade and high visitor numbers as part of its destination status,” he said. The presence of the London Stadium and the developing East Bank cultural district were key factors in the decision.

The board game bar will join an impressive roster of institutions at East Bank, including the BBC, London College of Fashion (UAL), Sadler’s Wells, UCL East, and the V&A East. Mark Camley, Director of Stratford Waterfront Retail Management Company, welcomed the addition: “Draughts will be the first retail tenant at Stratford Waterfront. Their unique board game restaurant and bar offer will be a compelling draw complementing the five other high-quality food and beverage outlets opening soon.”

Since its launch in 2014, DRAUGHTS has established itself as a pioneer in London’s competitive socializing scene, with each venue housing an extensive library of over 1,000 board games. The concept has proved popular among diverse groups, from serious gamers to casual players and families.

The new Olympic Park location represents a significant expansion for DRAUGHTS, which currently operates two successful venues in London. The announcement comes as part of a broader growth strategy, with the company hinting at further expansion plans over the next three years.

When it opens next spring, visitors can expect the same combination of board games, food, and drinks that has made DRAUGHTS a London favorite, now in a prime location within one of the city’s most exciting new cultural districts.

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Behind the Scenes: Winter Conservation Work Begins at Yorkshire’s Unique WWII Museum https://brit.news/2025/02/06/behind-the-scenes-winter-conservation-work-begins-at-yorkshires-unique-wwii-museum/ https://brit.news/2025/02/06/behind-the-scenes-winter-conservation-work-begins-at-yorkshires-unique-wwii-museum/#respond Thu, 06 Feb 2025 23:16:13 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=941 A fascinating preservation project is currently underway at one of Britain’s most unique historical sites. Eden Camp Modern History Museum, housed in the nation’s last surviving prisoner of war camp, has begun its annual winter conservation program to protect thousands of wartime artifacts that help tell the story of life in 1940s Britain. Located in […]

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A fascinating preservation project is currently underway at one of Britain’s most unique historical sites. Eden Camp Modern History Museum, housed in the nation’s last surviving prisoner of war camp, has begun its annual winter conservation program to protect thousands of wartime artifacts that help tell the story of life in 1940s Britain.

Located in Malton, North Yorkshire, the museum’s distinctive setting across 22 original POW huts provides both opportunities and challenges for conservation. Each hut, dating back to 1942, contains carefully curated displays that require specialized maintenance to combat the effects of time and the elements.

“Conservation is at the heart of what we do,” says Summer O’Brien, Collections & Engagement Manager. “Every artifact, from military uniforms to historic documents, needs specific care to ensure it continues to tell its story effectively. Our team uses specialized techniques and materials to protect these irreplaceable pieces of history.”

One of the more unusual conservation projects currently underway involves the maintenance of display horses in the museum’s ‘Save It Street’ exhibition. These pieces require careful leather treatment to prevent deterioration – just one example of the diverse preservation skills needed at such a unique heritage site.

The museum’s significance extends beyond its physical collection. Having welcomed more than 100,000 visitors in 2023, including 25,000 schoolchildren on educational visits, Eden Camp plays a crucial role in keeping wartime history accessible to new generations. This educational impact has been recognized with the site winning Best Educational Day Out at the SME Northern Enterprise Awards for three consecutive years.

Recent investment has helped secure the site’s future, with £224,000 in funding from North Yorkshire Council supporting the restoration of original structures. This includes improvements to the museum’s immersive Blitz experience, allowing visitors to better understand the realities of wartime Britain.

The museum’s archive, containing over 103,000 documents, artifacts, and photographs, represents one of the most comprehensive collections of World War II social history in the country. This winter’s conservation work ensures these materials remain available for researchers and visitors alike.

As museums increasingly turn to digital experiences, Eden Camp’s commitment to preserving physical artifacts and maintaining authentic historical spaces offers visitors something increasingly rare – the chance to step directly into a preserved piece of wartime Britain. The current conservation work, though largely hidden from public view, is essential to maintaining this unique historical experience for future generations.

The museum remains open to visitors throughout the conservation period, offering a rare chance to glimpse some of this vital preservation work in action. Those interested in visiting can find more information and book tickets through the museum’s website.

[This version takes a different angle, focusing more on the unique nature of the site and the importance of physical preservation in an increasingly digital world, while maintaining the core facts from the press release.]

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First Look: Mrs President Brings Mary Lincoln’s Untold Story to the London Stage https://brit.news/2025/02/05/first-look-mrs-president-brings-mary-lincolns-untold-story-to-the-london-stage/ https://brit.news/2025/02/05/first-look-mrs-president-brings-mary-lincolns-untold-story-to-the-london-stage/#respond Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:45:20 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=923 The Charing Cross Theatre is currently hosting one of the most intriguing historical dramas of the season: Mrs President, a gripping new production that sheds light on the controversial and misunderstood legacy of Mary Lincoln. Directed by Bronagh Lagan (Cruise, Flowers for Mrs Harris), the play runs until 16 March 2025 and stars Miriam Grace […]

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The Charing Cross Theatre is currently hosting one of the most intriguing historical dramas of the season: Mrs President, a gripping new production that sheds light on the controversial and misunderstood legacy of Mary Lincoln. Directed by Bronagh Lagan (Cruise, Flowers for Mrs Harris), the play runs until 16 March 2025 and stars Miriam Grace Edwards (One of the Boys, Romeo & Juliet) as Mary Lincoln, alongside Sam Jenkins-Shaw (The King and I, Twelfth Night) as pioneering photographer Matthew Brady.

As the first production images are released, audiences are getting a glimpse of this visually striking and politically charged drama.

The Story: A First Lady at War

Written by John Ransom Phillips, Mrs President explores the emotional and political turmoil Mary Lincoln faced after her husband’s assassination. Vilified by Washington’s elite, accused of treason, and battling personal grief, she seeks to rebuild her reputation with the help of celebrated Civil War photographer Matthew Brady—the man whose portraits helped shape Abraham Lincoln’s public image. But as the two clash over creative control, the play questions who has the right to tell history’s stories.

The production delves into themes of power, female agency, and public perception, painting an intimate and multifaceted portrait of one of America’s most misunderstood First Ladies.

A Stunning Period Production

The first released production images, shot by Pamela Raith, capture the tense dynamics between Mary Lincoln and Matthew Brady, set against a richly detailed 19th-century backdrop. The atmospheric staging is brought to life by an award-winning creative team, including:

Set & Costume Design: Gregor Donnelly

Lighting Design: Derek Anderson

Sound Design: Sonum Batra

Video Design: Matt Powell

General Management: Katy Lipson & Kristie Winsen for ARIA Entertainment

Produced by: Art Pond Foundation

A Must-See for History and Theatre Fans

Described as “evocative” and “deeply compelling”, Mrs President has already made an impression with its unique historical perspective and powerhouse performances. Its timely themes of gender, media influence, and political power make it as relevant today as it was in the 19th century.

How to See Mrs President

📅 Running until 16 March 2025 at Charing Cross Theatre

🎭 Press Night: Tuesday, 4 February 2025, at 7 PM

🎟 Tickets available at: Charing Cross Theatre Box Office

For theatre lovers and history enthusiasts alike, Mrs President offers a rare chance to see Mary Lincoln’s untold story brought to life. Don’t miss this riveting, thought-provoking production in the heart of London’s theatre scene!

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British Motor Museum to Host Two Exclusive After-Hours Events for Car Enthusiasts https://brit.news/2025/02/05/british-motor-museum-to-host-two-exclusive-after-hours-events-for-car-enthusiasts/ https://brit.news/2025/02/05/british-motor-museum-to-host-two-exclusive-after-hours-events-for-car-enthusiasts/#respond Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:36:48 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=920 The British Motor Museum is offering two rare opportunities for visitors to explore the world of automotive design and history with its upcoming Museum Late events. Taking place on 11 February and 11 March, these after-hours experiences will provide exclusive access to the Museum’s collections, expert-led talks, and a behind-the-scenes look at Britain’s rich motoring […]

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The British Motor Museum is offering two rare opportunities for visitors to explore the world of automotive design and history with its upcoming Museum Late events. Taking place on 11 February and 11 March, these after-hours experiences will provide exclusive access to the Museum’s collections, expert-led talks, and a behind-the-scenes look at Britain’s rich motoring heritage.

From Sketch to Street – 11 February

On 11 February, the Museum will spotlight the art of car design with its From Sketch to Street event, inspired by its current exhibition of the same name. Visitors will explore the creative process behind vehicle design, learning how concept sketches evolve into full-scale production models. The evening will include a special talk, “Ciao Inghilterra! How British Cars Got Italian Style,” which examines the influence of Italian design on British automotive history.

This event provides a rare chance to engage with the Museum’s Collections Team, discuss car design ideas with other enthusiasts, and enjoy an exclusive after-hours viewing of the exhibition.

Backstage Tours – 11 March

On 11 March, the Backstage Tours event will take visitors beyond the Museum’s public displays, offering a guided tour of its private collections and archives. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore:

Historical documents, photographs, and film archives, with insight from the Archive Team.

The Museum’s extensive artefact stores, where rare motoring memorabilia and vintage toys are preserved.

The process of creating Heritage Certificates, which document the histories of classic British cars.

Visitors will also have the chance to chat with the Curatorial Team, who will provide expert commentary on the Museum’s rare and unseen artefacts.

An Unmissable Experience for Automotive Fans

Stephen Laing, Head of Collections & Engagement at the British Motor Museum, emphasized the unique nature of these events:

“We’re thrilled to offer visitors these two exclusive Museum Lates. The 11 February event will highlight the fascinating journey of car design, while the 11 March tour will provide behind-the-scenes access to some of our most treasured collections. Whether you’re passionate about design or history, these events offer a unique way to experience the Museum.”

Ticket Information & Booking Details

From Sketch to Street (11 February): £20 per person

Backstage Tours (11 March): £25 per person

Both events include a drink and a two-course meal

Discounted tickets available for Museum Members

As these are after-hours events, Annual Passes will not be valid, and limited tickets are available, so early booking is advised.

📅 Book now:

🔗 From Sketch to Street

🔗 Backstage Tours

📞 For more information, call: 01926 895300

For car enthusiasts, design lovers, and history buffs, these Museum Lates promise an unforgettable evening inside one of Britain’s most celebrated motoring museums.

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Warwickshire Adventure Park Launches Wizard School for Half-Term Magic https://brit.news/2025/02/05/warwickshire-adventure-park-launches-wizard-school-for-half-term-magic/ https://brit.news/2025/02/05/warwickshire-adventure-park-launches-wizard-school-for-half-term-magic/#respond Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:34:17 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=917 A Midlands family attraction is conjuring up an enchanting February half-term with the launch of Professor Zoobee’s Magic Academy, while taking steps to make family days out more affordable during the cost-of-living crisis. Hatton Adventure World’s new magical experience, running February 15-23, will see young visitors crafting their own wands, learning spells, and enjoying family […]

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A Midlands family attraction is conjuring up an enchanting February half-term with the launch of Professor Zoobee’s Magic Academy, while taking steps to make family days out more affordable during the cost-of-living crisis.

Hatton Adventure World’s new magical experience, running February 15-23, will see young visitors crafting their own wands, learning spells, and enjoying family magic shows. The venue has introduced a new pricing structure starting from £11.50 per person when booked online, aiming to make premium family entertainment accessible to more people.

“Creating magical memories shouldn’t break the bank,” explains Johnnie Arkwright, the venue’s owner. “Our new pricing ensures families can enjoy a premium day out without premium prices.”

The 100-acre countryside site offers protection from winter weather with extensive indoor attractions, including one of the region’s largest soft play centers. Animal enthusiasts can meet newborn lambs and piglets in the covered farmyard, handle guinea pigs in their dedicated village, and get up close with reptiles in the Scales & Tails area.

Outdoor adventures continue regardless of weather, with falconry displays, fairground rides, and a towering helter-skelter providing traditional family entertainment. The adjacent shopping village, featuring 20 independent units, completes the day out experience.

The initiative comes as many family attractions face the challenge of maintaining visitor numbers while households tighten their entertainment budgets. Hatton’s response suggests a growing trend toward more flexible pricing in the leisure sector.

Early booking is recommended through the venue’s website, with additional savings available for advance tickets and group bookings.

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Code Your Own Car Game: Museum’s Half-Term Tech Adventure https://brit.news/2025/02/05/code-your-own-car-game-museums-half-term-tech-adventure/ https://brit.news/2025/02/05/code-your-own-car-game-museums-half-term-tech-adventure/#respond Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:31:11 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=914 From designing digital race cars to building art-making robots, the British Motor Museum is putting a modern spin on motoring history this February half-term. The museum’s innovative program aims to inspire the next generation of automotive engineers and designers through hands-on technology experiences. Young visitors will have the unique opportunity to try their hand at […]

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From designing digital race cars to building art-making robots, the British Motor Museum is putting a modern spin on motoring history this February half-term. The museum’s innovative program aims to inspire the next generation of automotive engineers and designers through hands-on technology experiences.

Young visitors will have the unique opportunity to try their hand at game development through a new partnership with FUZE, using Nintendo Switch® consoles to create customizable racing games. “Children can let their imagination run wild,” says Emma Rawlinson from the museum. “They can transform vehicles into anything from dinosaurs to flying cakes while learning basic coding principles.”

The museum’s traditional exhibits will take on a new dimension with the Tourmaline and the Museum of Marvels Trail, turning the venue into a treasure hunt for magical objects. Meanwhile, the popular science performers Professor Pickle and Dr. Pumpkin will demonstrate the physics and chemistry behind modern motoring through their “Double Trouble” show.

For budding engineers, the museum’s ‘ArtBot’ workshop offers the chance to build a motorized drawing machine, combining principles of mechanics with creative expression. Weekend visitors can also join specialist-led ‘Techie’ Family Tours exploring the technology behind Britain’s automotive heritage.

Running from February 15-23, the program costs from £43 for a family ticket when booked in advance, with all activities included in the entry price. Tickets can be converted to annual passes at no extra cost, making it an economical choice for families looking for repeat visits throughout the year.

The initiative represents an innovative approach to engaging young people with Britain’s rich automotive history, proving that even classic cars can teach modern tech skills.

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Mighty Leaf-Cutter Ants Make Grand Return to Stratford Butterfly Farm https://brit.news/2025/02/05/mighty-leaf-cutter-ants-make-grand-return-to-stratford-butterfly-farm/ https://brit.news/2025/02/05/mighty-leaf-cutter-ants-make-grand-return-to-stratford-butterfly-farm/#respond Wed, 05 Feb 2025 03:26:44 +0000 https://brit.news/?p=911 Visitors to Stratford Butterfly Farm will have the chance to witness one of nature’s most impressive displays this February half-term, as its colony of Leaf-Cutter ants returns to public view along a specially constructed 25-meter aerial walkway. The Atta Cephalotes colony, which arrived at the farm last August, has been settling into their new environment […]

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Visitors to Stratford Butterfly Farm will have the chance to witness one of nature’s most impressive displays this February half-term, as its colony of Leaf-Cutter ants returns to public view along a specially constructed 25-meter aerial walkway.

The Atta Cephalotes colony, which arrived at the farm last August, has been settling into their new environment in the Minibeast Metropolis exhibition. These remarkable insects, originally from Southern Mexico to Bolivia, can carry loads ten times their body weight and form colonies of up to ten million workers under a single queen.

“Visitors can watch these amazing ants march high above on their rope walkway as they carry leaves back to their colony,” says Jane Kendrick, Marketing Manager at the Butterfly Farm. The farm’s team has spent weeks preparing the ants’ new home, creating overhead ropework and laying trails of honeysuckle and privet to guide them.

The half-term attractions also include a new addition to the Minibeast Metropolis – the exotic Orchid Mantis from Southeast Asia. These remarkable creatures camouflage themselves on orchid flowers to ambush nectar-seeking insects, though visitors might be startled to learn that females sometimes eat their male counterparts during mating!

Daily Mini-Beast handling and Butterfly Life-cycle demonstrations will run at 11:00am throughout the half-term week (February 15-23). The farm is open daily from 10am to 5pm, offering visitors the chance to see hundreds of tropical butterflies, insects, reptiles, and spiders in a lush, climate-controlled environment.

The facility suggests booking in advance through their website, particularly during the busy half-term period, and reminds visitors that last entry is at 4pm daily.

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