In May, the Southbank Centre will host a free immersive Moomin installation on its Riverside Terrace. This event, themed ‘Moomin 80’, celebrates the 80th anniversary of Tove Jansson’s beloved book series, inviting families to explore the iconic Moominhouse and engage in creative activities.

The installation, running daily from 23 May to 1 June 2025 between 2 pm and 5 pm, focuses on themes of inclusivity and belonging. Visitors can enjoy storytime, workshops, and interactive Play, Make, Dream sessions led by Woodland Tribe, known for their child-led adventure play across the UK.

The initiative is part of the Southbank Centre’s broader spring programme, offering family-friendly events, including shows, music, and dance workshops. This springtime schedule promises fun for all ages.

For those eager for Moomin merchandise before the event, a Moomin shop exists in Covent Garden, featuring adorable products that celebrate these endearing characters.

The Moomin installation at the Southbank Centre offers a unique chance for families to engage with the beloved characters of Tove Jansson and promotes themes of inclusivity. With free entry, interactive sessions, and a vibrant schedule of spring activities, it promises to be an enchanting experience. Families can also check out Moomin merchandise in Covent Garden before the event.

Original Source: secretldn.com

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A new inclusive nightclub, Club House Hillingdon, opened its doors for the first time on February 27 at Brunel University in Uxbridge, catering specifically to young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Designed as a safe and enjoyable space, this initiative is an expansion of a successful programme launched by Orchard Hill College students in Sutton in 2023.

Tia, a 24-year-old former student of Orchard Hill College, expressed how Club House has boosted her confidence, allowing her to socialise as an adult. She noted the absence of suitable venues before this initiative, sharing that the club offers a friendly atmosphere where attendees can enjoy drinks with friends, feeling secure with the presence of staff and security.

The Club House not only facilitates social gatherings but also helps participants build skills for future jobs, with many former students getting involved in running the events. This initiative, supported by Sutton Council, has thrived since its inception, fostering a sense of community among attendees.

Kelly Phillips, Executive Principal of Orchard Hill College, emphasised the importance of providing SEND young people with opportunities similar to their neurotypical peers. She highlighted that the club is entirely managed by SEND individuals, aiming to break down barriers and celebrate diversity in a fun environment.

Club House events occur monthly, with the next event scheduled for March 27 at Brunel University’s Hamilton Centre. Tickets are available at the door or online through Eventbrite, and each ticket includes a free pass for one carer.

The launch of Club House Hillingdon marks a significant step towards inclusivity for young adults with SEND, offering them social and employment opportunities. With strong support from local educational institutions and the community, these events aim to create a safe space for connection and empowerment, demonstrating that everyone deserves a chance to enjoy nightlife and develop important life skills.

Original Source: www.mylondon.news

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A new exhibition titled ‘Archives Can Be Anything’ is being held at the Museum of Croydon, aiming to explore the borough’s rich heritage and the role of archives in shaping historical understanding. This free exhibition runs until May 10 and showcases the creative efforts of ten young individuals aged 14 to 18, known as the Young Archivists.

The Young Archivists have undertaken training in various skills, including archiving, digital techniques, research, and exhibition design over the past year. They engaged in workshops that spanned writing, illustration, design, printmaking, and collage, leading them to produce artwork, zines, films, and poetry influenced by local archival materials.

Their contributions reflect historic documents such as council redevelopment plans, newspaper archives, and photographs, capturing community stories. One notable comic references a 1998 UFO sighting in New Addington, prompting discussions on how the community integrates newcomers. Other pieces address themes of race and racism in Croydon’s archival narratives.

The exhibition, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and part of the Dynamic Collections project, aims to digitally enhance Croydon’s archives. Croydon’s Executive Mayor, Jason Perry, stated that the exhibition highlights local youth creativity and the importance of community projects in fostering opportunities for personal growth and engagement.

The initiative encourages reflection on the past while considering Croydon’s future, illustrating how archives can inspire new generations.

The ‘Archives Can Be Anything’ exhibition at the Museum of Croydon showcases young people’s creativity while highlighting the importance of local archives. Through their diverse artistic contributions, the Young Archivists have revitalised the understanding of Croydon’s heritage, promoting inclusivity and engaging community narratives. The exhibition encourages a dialogue about the past and encourages a forward-looking perspective on the borough’s development.

Original Source: londonnewsonline.co.uk

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James Bay is scheduled to give an intimate performance at the 100 Club in London on 5th March 2025, as part of BRITs Week. The 350-capacity venue will also host other artists including Kasabian, Soft Play, Nova Twins, and Joy Crookes. Fans have the chance to attend the soundcheck through a prize draw, which requires a £5 donation to War Child.

In summary, James Bay will be performing at the 100 Club during BRITs Week 2025, alongside notable artists. The event supports War Child, offering fans a chance to enter a prize draw by donating to aid children affected by conflict. This initiative underscores the importance of helping vulnerable children during challenging times.

Original Source: readdork.com

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An upcoming exhibition titled “Homelessness Heritage in Waterloo” will highlight the stories of London’s homeless community, particularly those in the Bullring area, also known as Cardboard City. This area housed up to 200 individuals encamped in cardboard boxes during the mid-1980s and was evicted in 1998 through a High Court order. The Exhibition features personal accounts, artworks, and photographs, aiming to shed light on the community’s history.

The project is supported by Historic England’s Everyday Heritage grant, which focuses on preserving working-class histories. Artistic director Euchar Gravina stated it is not fully comprehensive but aims to “preserve and reflect upon the memories shared by…those whose lives were shaped by it.” The exhibition will take place from 18 February to 2 March at St John’s Church in Waterloo.

Tom Foxall, Historic England’s regional director, emphasised the value of uncovering hidden histories in London, asserting the importance of community-led projects that give locals the opportunity to share their stories. The exhibition is designed to highlight resilience, love, and solidarity while also addressing the harsh realities of homelessness.

The exhibition provides a platform to honour the legacy of those who lived in Cardboard City, ensuring their stories are remembered and acknowledged in history.

The “Homelessness Heritage in Waterloo” exhibition is set to provide valuable insights into London’s homeless history, particularly the experiences of those in Cardboard City. Funded by Historic England, it aims to share personal stories, artwork, and photographs while highlighting community resilience and the impact of homelessness. Through this project, the legacy of these individuals will be preserved and their voices amplified.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

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The International Rights Center (IRC) at the London Book Fair 2025 will feature an expanded area, increasing from previous years despite facing space constraints at Olympia London due to ongoing renovations expected to last until 2027. Adam Ridgway, the new director of the fair, announced that the IRC will be entirely located on the first floor this year, covering both the National Hall and Grand Hall beneath the venue’s iconic glass ceilings.

The IRC will now accommodate 550 tables for rights professionals, marking a 10% increase in capacity. Prominent agencies such as Aitken Alexander Associates, Curtis Brown Agency, and The Wylie Agency have secured bookings at this year’s centre. This positioning is crucial as the IRC is central to rights trading, the main focus of the trade show as opposed to a regular book fair.

The London Book Fair is regarded as a significant platform for international rights trading in publishing. The IRC offers a venue for creating relationships and selling rights during a peak buying period for the industry. The centre is tailored specifically for rights professionals, providing private meeting spaces and exclusive services to maximise networking opportunities.

The London Book Fair 2025 promises an enhanced International Rights Center, with increased capacity and improved positioning to facilitate rights trading. This year’s changes reflect the fair’s commitment to meeting the needs of professionals in the publishing industry as it continues to adapt to spatial constraints. The inclusion of leading agencies underscores its prominence as a key event for rights exchange.

Original Source: publishingperspectives.com

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Deptford station, London’s oldest, recently celebrated the 200th anniversary of the modern railway during a community event. The occasion initiated a mural project at Greenwich station, documenting the railway’s history connecting London Bridge, Deptford, and Greenwich. Southeastern Managing Director Steve White and Network Rail’s Kent Route Director David Davidson welcomed local leaders and members of civic societies to commemorate this milestone.

The railway in Kent, East Sussex, and South East London has a rich 200-year history. The Deptford station marks a significant part of this history as the first railway station in London, built to serve the London & Greenwich Railway. This event is part of the broader Railway 200 initiative aimed at recognising the impact of railways on communities and their historical significance.

The 200-year celebration of London’s railway history highlights the importance of the London & Greenwich Railway and Deptford station in the region’s infrastructure. Community participation in the mural project further emphasises the connection between the railways and local identity. Events like these reinforce awareness and appreciation for the historical contributions of rail transport in London.

Original Source: news.railbusinessdaily.com

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British photographer Ian Wood has won the 2024 Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award with his image titled ‘No Access’, which captures a Eurasian badger looking at graffiti in St Leonards-on-Sea, England. The award received over 76,000 votes from wildlife enthusiasts globally, highlighting significant interest in nature photography.

Dr Douglas Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum, praised Wood’s photo for showcasing the relationship between urban environments and wildlife. He emphasised that the image exemplifies how local nature can captivate and inspire people, triggering a greater awareness of urban wildlife.

Wood’s photo emerged after he observed badgers foraging for food scraps left by locals. He set up a hide at night to capture the moment, illuminated only by lampposts. Wood expressed gratitude for the reception of his photograph and aimed to raise awareness regarding the ongoing badger cull in the UK, which threatens badger populations.

Alongside Wood’s winning image, four others received ‘Highly Commended’ status: Francisco Negroni’s ‘Earth and Sky’, Jess Findlay’s ‘Edge of Night’, Michel d’Oultremont’s ‘Whiteout’, and David Northall’s ‘Spiked’. These images were chosen from a shortlist of 25 nominated photos out of nearly 60,000 entries.

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, founded in 1965 and organised by the Natural History Museum, celebrates the artistic and emotional impact of wildlife photography. The People’s Choice Award is a key highlight, allowing the public to vote for their favourite images, thereby increasing engagement with wildlife and nature conservation issues. This year, the competition has attracted a record number of votes, underlining its popularity and relevance. Urban wildlife, especially in relation to human interaction, is a crucial theme in contemporary nature photography. The ongoing badger cull in the UK has drawn significant public concern, making the need for awareness through visual storytelling particularly urgent. The selected images reflect the diverse conditions and species photographed within their natural habitats.

Ian Wood’s ‘No Access’ reflects the importance of understanding wildlife in urban settings, showcasing the often-overlooked interactions between nature and human influences. The People’s Choice Award not only highlights exceptional photography but also aims to inspire change regarding urban wildlife conservation. The wider success of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year continues to engage audiences worldwide, fostering a greater appreciation for nature and the challenges it faces due to human activity.

Original Source: www.nhm.ac.uk

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The vibrant No Trousers Tube Ride event returned to the London Underground, where participants donned various styles of underwear instead of trousers. Enthusiastic crowds assembled at Newport Place in Chinatown before taking to the Tube. Notable sights included groups of women joyfully kicking their legs in colourful knickers and individuals striking poses while showcasing their outfits. Some attendees added to their looks with creative accessories, while others kept it simple, adhering to the event’s light-hearted spirit. According to a Facebook post, participants were encouraged to make it seem as if they merely forgot to wear pants, underscoring the event’s fun, carefree objective.

The No Trousers Tube Ride is an annual event that encourages participants to venture onto London’s public transport system wearing only their underwear. This event promotes a sense of camaraderie and fun among strangers, embracing spontaneity and humour. Participants typically gather in designated meeting points before boarding trains, leading to a whimsical atmosphere that attracts attention from both riders and passersby alike. The initiative is part of a global phenomenon, with similar events taking place in various cities worldwide.

The No Trousers Tube Ride provided an amusing and vibrant spectacle on the London Underground, highlighting the joy of collective silliness. With participants embracing their fun side in a variety of colourful underwear styles, the event reaffirmed its reputation as a light-hearted celebration of spontaneity. The simple premise of forgetting one’s trousers brought people together, fostered smiles, and created a memorable experience for all involved.

Original Source: www.northwalespioneer.co.uk

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The Lumineers have announced a charity concert at Hoxton Hall on January 17, benefitting War Child, which supports children affected by conflict. This performance marks their return to London since Wireless Festival 2023. Tickets are available through a prize draw, with entries requiring donations starting at £10. Fans have until 11:59pm on January 14 to enter for a chance to attend the intimate show. Successful attendees will be notified on January 15. War Child expressed gratitude for The Lumineers’ contribution towards emergency aid and support for children in war zones. This concert precedes their upcoming UK tour in May and the release of their new album “Automatic” on February 14.

The concert is a significant event as it not only brings The Lumineers back to London but also serves a humanitarian cause. War Child plays a crucial role in providing aid, education, and psychological support to children in areas affected by war. The choice of a small venue like Hoxton Hall allows for an intimate performance, creating a unique experience for fans while raising money for an important cause. The band’s active involvement in charity shows highlights their commitment to social issues, making this event particularly meaningful.

The Lumineers’ intimate charity concert at Hoxton Hall aims to support War Child’s efforts to assist children in conflict zones. Fans can enter the ticket draw through donations, which also ensures their contributions help those in need. This concert takes place ahead of their UK tour and new album release, making it a highly anticipated event for fans and supporters alike.

Original Source: secretldn.com

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