Derwen College is gearing up for a day of fun, excitement, and community spirit with its annual Fete and Dog Show. This year, the College is combining these two beloved events into a one-day event on Saturday, 14 June. Located in Gobowen, near Oswestry, Derwen College invites everyone to join in for a family fun day that promises something for everyone. From 10am to 4pm, the campus will be buzzing with activities and entertainment for all ages.
The dog show will delight attendees with categories for every pooch, whether they are the most handsome, have the waggiest tail, or are super clever. Entry for the dog show is just £3 per category, so bring along your best buddy and join the fun!
There’s a grand raffle with amazing prizes, including a two-night glamping retreat courtesy of Woodland Park Lodges in Ellesmere; shopping and experience vouchers; wine hampers; signed memorabilia; and much more. Then, the ever-popular Duck Race is back, allowing individuals and sponsoring businesses to pick their ducks and cheer them on as they race down the stream to the finish line.
New for 2025, the fete launches village show-style arts and crafts competitions, which will be held in the College’s large Reception area. Catering to all ages, children’s categories include vegetable animals and garden in a tray. Other arts and crafts competitions include themed photography, cooking, and crochet. Entry for these competitions is £2.
Visitors can explore the award-winning Marketplace, where they can shop and dine at the Garden Centre and Gift Shop, Vintage Advantage Charity Shop and Walled Garden Café. The Orangery Restaurant will be open for traditional cream teas.
Local sellers will showcase a fabulous range of goods, from artisanal delights to handcrafted ornaments. Additionally, there will be a bouncy castle, Derwen-made ice creams, a barbecue, bar picnic area, tombola, and games.
Megan Charman, Community Fundraiser and Events Coordinator at Derwen College, said: “We are thrilled to host all our popular events on one super Saturday this year. We can’t wait to launch the fun village competitions too, and hope these become part of our fete tradition as we head towards the College’s centenary year in 2027.
“The Fete and Dog Show is our biggest fundraiser of the year, with all proceeds from the event going to Derwen Charity. By joining the festivities, attendees will be contributing to the fantastic work the College does to improve the lives and education of students and clients with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). We were blown away by how many supporters attended our 10km Challenge in April, and we’d love to see even more come along to join in the fun for the Fete!”
So, mark the date in your calendars, and bring family, friends, and furry companions too, for a day of unforgettable fun at Derwen College’s Fete and Dog Show! Find out more at www.derwen.ac.uk.
