Local removal company Bournes is celebrating an incredible milestone this year – one hundred and fifty years in business – and is marking the occasion by giving back to the communities that have supported it for generations.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Bournes has launched a special monthly Facebook competition throughout 2025, inviting communities to nominate and vote for local charities and not-for-profit organisations in the areas their branches serve. Each month the winning group receives a £150 donation to support their valuable work – a small way of saying thank you to those who make a big difference locally.
In February and March, two Rye area organisations that support the next generation have been the lucky recipients.
February’s winner – 1st Rye Scouts
The Rye Scouts received a £150 donation just before setting off on an evening adventure at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. This is just one of the many activities led by dedicated volunteers to help young people learn new skills, explore the outdoors, and build confidence. Bournes also made a special gesture by matching the donation with a further £150 for Rye Girlguiding, which had narrowly missed out on the win in January. Both groups were recognised for their incredible efforts in offering children and young people aged four to eighteen the chance to take part in enriching experiences – all thanks to the time, care, and enthusiasm of their volunteers.
“We were amazed to see over six hundred votes cast for these two groups combined,” said Kirsty Parsons of Bournes. “It’s clear just how valued they are in the community, and we’re really happy to be able to support the work they do.”
March’s winner – Playden School Association (PSA)
This parent-and staff-led group works tirelessly to support St Michael’s Church of England School. With school budgets increasingly stretched, many things like school trips, enrichment activities, and vital resources that enhance children’s education and wellbeing simply would not happen without organisations like this.
Tom Bourne, representing the fifth-generation owners of the family business, visited the PSA arranged Easter fun event after school to hand over the donation to head of school, Fay Churchill, and the children. The visit was particularly special as Tom himself is a former student of St Michael’s, and he was able to present the cheque to current students Thomas and Isobel, who are also descendants of the company’s founder, Thomas Bourne. “Being back at my old school and seeing the continued dedication of the staff and volunteers and the fun the children are having at an event like this really brings home how important community support is – and how proud we are to be able to support that in a small way”, he said.
How to Get Involved
If you know a charity, club, or community group that deserves recognition, keep an eye on Bournes’ official Facebook page: facebook.com/BournesRemovals. Each month, residents can nominate their favourite organisation and vote on the final shortlist to help decide who will receive the next £150 donation.
Bournes hopes to support a wide variety of organisations throughout the year, celebrating not only their own heritage, but the tireless work of volunteers, educators, and changemakers across our towns and villages. Kirsty added: “After one hundred and fifty years, supporting our community and investing in future generations remains just as important to us as ever. We’re proud of our heritage, but our eyes are firmly on the future – and we hope to be serving and celebrating with our local communities for another 150 years to come.”
Image Credits: Rye 1st Scouts .