Kettering Civic Society
Kettering Civic Society, formed in 1969, is an independent voluntary organisation, who are stakeholders and act as a co-ordinating body working with the local authority and likeminded voluntary organisations having aims similar to those of the Society.
The Society promotes the town, offers talks and visits. Annually a Silver Rose Bowl Award is presented to an organisation, business or individual who has either contributed to the town’s built environment or shown civic pride. It has an ever-increasing blue plaque trail around the town inviting all to explore the towns rich heritage.
Well-known for its campaign to save the 15-foot x 45-foot mosaic that was rescued when the former Kettering Grammar School which was demolished in 2007, the project took many twists and turns. The project has now reached a conclusion, Oliver Budd, the son of the original artist Kenneth, has made a new facsimile measuring a 10th of the size which is now installed in the Alfred East Art Gallery, ready for when it opens.
Enquiries from schools about the history of Kettering has inspired us to produce a series of magazines which are beautifully illustrated with cartoon characters. The facts however are intended for all ages and offer parents, grandparents and teachers a starting point for further exploration of Kettering and beyond. Ron Greenall’s ‘History of Kettering’ is the foundation source for research.
The Society continues to make Kettering station inviting to commuters through planting.
Meetings
Details can be found on the Society’s website.
Membership
£15 adults, £5 children
Talks/tours offered
‘The Lost Mosaic’ a 50-minute documentary film about the Kettering Mosaic presented by Victoria Wicks, which tells the story of well-known mosaic artists Kenneth and Oliver Budd, and Kettering’s history through the abstract images in the mosaic.
Contact us
Secretary, Monica Ozdemir
Phone
01536 723682
Email
kettcivic@gmail.com
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Kettering Civic Society