The New Pavillion

On Saturday July 22nd The Alice Pavilion at Wat Bang Pleung was officially opened by Mr David Fall, the British Ambassador to Thailand.

 

 

The Pavilion was decorated with flags and colourful streamers and looked a wonderful sight, with Alice's photograph displayed on the stage. The Vice Governor of Ayutthaya was there, along with the local MP and many other dignatories. Before the formal procedures commenced we all held a minutes silence in memory of Alice. Then came the speeches, a Buddhist ceremony and the formal opening. As the curtains opened to reveal the Alice plaque an explosion of confetti burst out from the plaque, much to everyone's surprise and amusement!

 

 

We were then entertained by some of the girls who performed Thai dancing, which was a delight, especially some of the youngest girls, who looked adorable in their traditional Thai costumes.

 

 

After the formalities, The Foundation paid for all the children to have a wonderful lunch. Tom and Lissy were volunteered to help with the preparations, whilst Malcolm dished up. It was a lovely occasion which the children obviously enjoyed.

 

 

The project, The Alice Pavilion and two new toilet and shower blocks cost The Foundation £40,000. We have also provided, with a donation from Tewkesbury Rotary, games kits for all the children.

 

We returned to Wat Bang Pleung a week later to see four teams of boys playing in a very competitive football match, cheered on by all the other children. It was lovely to see The Pavilion in full use, and so much appreciated.

 

 

Our thanks must go again the the Pansomboon family, who have overseen the project for us in Thailand, and organised the opening ceremony. Without them, our task would have been virtually impossible.