Our Own Royal Garden Party

On Thursday 10^th July, we hosted the 50^thAnniversary of Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation.

The celebration brought together supporters, grant recipients, partners, and volunteers to recognise five decades of community impact across Wiltshire and Swindon. It was a proud moment for the foundation and an opportunity to reflect on the work they have done and to look ahead with renewed purpose.

Over the past 50 years,  they have played a vital role as a connector —bringing together people who care with causes that matter. Whether by linking donors and partners with grassroots organisations, connecting groups with each other, or opening up new opportunities through shared knowledge and collaboration, we help to strengthen communities across the county. Our role continues to be one of connection, collaboration and long-term commitment.

As part of this milestone, we are honour to have welcomed Her Majesty The Queen to Wellington Barn!

During the event, Her Majesty met a wide range of our supporters and donors, as well as individuals and groups who have received funding from the Foundation. She took time to hear their stories, unveiled a commemorative plaque crafted and mounted by Tidworth and Ludgershall Men’s Shed, and cut a specially commissioned anniversary cake, made by SWEF grant recipient Lily Shergold of Bake with Lil.

Her Majesty also met Joanna Weaver, founder of Joanna’s Gelato, who received a SWEF grant to support her artisan gelato business in Salisbury — and was delighted to enjoy one of Joanna’s ice creams on the day. Her Majesty enjoyed a Passionfruit Sorbet before leaving the site.

Other groups she spoke to included Growbaby Swindon,which provides baby essentials and support for families in need; All Yours Period Box, which tackles period poverty and delivers educational workshops; and Changing Suits CIC, a Swindon-based organisation supporting South Asian communities to overcome cultural barriers and access services.
She also met Manor Farms own Sam Gardner, founder of Smart Mushrooms.
Her Majesty The Queen, took away two Mushroom grow kits away with her!

The event also included a performance by the Downton Brass Band, a charitable music group with a 150-year legacy, whose playing throughout the afternoon added a wonderful sense of occasion to the celebration.

In the last five decades, Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation have awarded more than £26.8 million in grants, supporting hundreds of thousands of people. Our funding has addressed a wide range of local issues — from poverty and rural isolation to mental health, education, and domestic abuse. We also help young people access higher education and training, and launch their own businesses, through dedicated grant programmes.

This impact has been made possible by the generosity of individuals, businesses, trusts and partners across Wiltshire and Swindon. In2024/25 alone, we awarded over £2.5 million in grants, reaching more than 83,000 people. Supported by a growing endowment fund, we continue to provide a sustainable, long-term source of funding for local causes.

The Team at Wellington Barn were absolutely delighted to have been part of such a special event being able to host Her Majesty.

The sun was shining on our beautiful patio. It really was our own Royal Garden Party!

Our very own King and Queen of Calstone, Pat & Sandy joined the special celebration.

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Photo Credit – Will Scammell Photographer

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