On Saturday September 12th Beeston Civic Society collaborated with Hong Kong Notts CIC to mutually exchange their respective cultures – to welcome Hong-Kongers into the Beeston community – further cementing community cohesion and understanding.
Welcoming over 160 guests into the event at Beeston’s Royal British Legion Club – Mervyn Brown from Beeston Civic and Christy Tang, co-founder of HK Notts – spoke in both English and Cantonese.
They urged folks to explore what the Civic Society has to offer – to discover and share our local culture – our street art, natural and built environment – through Beeston Civic’s talks and guided walks. Commending involvement in Beeston Civic as a great way of meeting fellow Beestonian’s and experience camaraderie – Proclaiming Beeston Civic as; Open, Welcoming, and importantly aiming to be, increasingly INCLUSIVE – Maybe to making new friends
Councillor Barbara Carr, Worshipful Mayor of Broxtowe Borough, and long-term friend of Beeston Civic, officially opened the event.
In a most eloquent address, Barbara emphasised the significance of building cohesive communities in Broxtowe and the influence that the event would achieve.
Attendees thoroughly enjoyed a vibrant afternoon immersed in culture; kicked off by a wonderful selection of European music performed by Beeston Civic Chair, Jeanie Barton. The atmosphere was kept lively throughout the event by live band Watercolours, performing exceptional Hong Kong music.
Beyond the fantastic soundtrack, guests indulged in authentic Hong Kong snacks and experienced rich cultural traditions firsthand – trying on traditional costumes to participating in live calligraphy and drawing sessions. The afternoon wrapped up with lively rounds of the classic board game, mahjong – making it a truly memorable celebration of community and heritage.
The organisers acknowledge and gratefully thanked County Councillor Teresa Cullen – who brokered financial support from Nottinghamshire County Council – without which the event would not have been possible. Also much appreciated was the energetic support from more than 20 volunteers, and professional sound systems provided by Tony French.
Posted on 29 September 2026
