🎉 Celebrating Ann’s 60th with a Party – and a Purpose! 🎂

As our beloved community farm celebrates its 45th birthday this weekend 🚜🎊, we’re delighted to share how one of our longest-standing supporters has helped mark this milestone year in the most generous way.

Long-time friend and supporter of St. Paul’s Community Trust, Ann, marked her 60th birthday in a uniquely generous way — by asking for donations to the farm at The Venture instead of presents 💝. Thanks to her kindness and the support of her guests, £600 was raised 💷 to support our much-loved community farm as it enters its 46th year.

Ann has been associated with St. Pauls since 1988, when she first joined our Community Theatre group 🎭. It was during a theatre rehearsal at The Venture that she met Mark, (who has been part of our Maintenance & Facilities team for around 40 years) who had been asked to help the group with set-making. Their shared passion for creativity, community, and storytelling sparked a connection and they have been happily married ever since 💕. Both remain involved with performances through the Balsall Heath Local History Society.

Over the years, Ann’s commitment to St. Pauls has gone far beyond the stage. From fundraising for an Edinburgh Fringe trip with a mixed youth and community group, to helping at major events like Carnival, the Festival of Light, open days, and even a 24-hour sponsored readathon involving local schools — she’s been an active part of the Trust’s story for nearly four decades, almost as long as our farm has been growing!

Her ties are truly multigenerational. Ann’s eldest son, Lucas, celebrated his first birthday at The Venture (he’s now 25!), and her younger son, Nico, regularly volunteers at events and on the farm. Ann has also worked in the office at our school, helping to digitise pupil records for the local authority.

Our CEO, Manjit reflects: “Ann’s dedication to this place is woven into its history. Her generosity, creativity and energy have inspired so many. We’re incredibly grateful for everything she continues to give to the community.”

Join Our Growing Community

Stories like Ann’s remind us why St Paul’s has been such a special place for over 45 years. As we look ahead to the future, we’re expanding our team and seeking passionate individuals to join our mission.

Our facilities are available for hire:

• Historic farm setting perfect for birthday parties, celebrations, and corporate events
• Flexible spaces that have hosted everything from theatre rehearsals to community festivals
• Experienced team to help make your event special

Interested in joining our team or hiring our facilities? Contact us to learn more about becoming part of St Paul’s next chapter.

We thank Ann for her incredible support and for choosing to make her birthday not just a celebration of her life, but a gift to others – and a perfect way to help celebrate our farm’s 45th year.