It’s hard to imagine that it’s been two whole weeks since we bid a sad farewell to our MGSE visitors from Europe. Here is a short update on what they did during their last few days in the UK: casts, cars, coasts, canvases and Canterbury!
In our last update on the UK adventures of our MGSE delegates, we told you about the trip to Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells for the start of Day 4. But that day didn’t end there, as they went on to visit BBC South East, also in Tunbridge Wells, to see the production and transmission of the local news programme South East Today. There they met presenter and reporter Chrissie Reidy and weather presenter Rachel Mackley. The behind-the-scenes look around the studios proved fascinating – green screens and all! Of course, the youngsters made sure they took a picture in the studio with the stars of the broadcast. They also got a sense of the tense excitement and challenges that producers – sitting in front of their wall of screens – face.
The following day, Day 5 (Friday), saw the participants and accompanying Rotarians off to Barretts of Canterbury. They were shown around the impressive new car preparation facility and also the facility where they recondition used cars. It has to be said that the three participants from Germany loved seeing the shiny BMWs. They were welcomed by Paul Barrett, who told them how he was the fourth generation in the company started by his great-grandfather. Barretts’ staff kindly showed them around and were happy to answer the probing questions that the delegates asked.
Next up was a trip to Thanet, starting with an enjoyable picnic on the sandy beach at Margate. Of course, they had to have a quick (and cold) splash in the North Sea while they were there – but the weather was perfect, and the view of the sea was reminiscent of Turner. Naturally, they also visited the Turner Contemporary Art Gallery. There they saw an exhibition called The Sunken Boat: A Glimpse into Past Histories by Anna Boghiguian – with a sandy beach, shells, shipwrecks, and the sounds to go with it. There was also a chance to enjoy J.M.W. Turner’s classics. From the gallery, the delegates headed to Margate’s caves, with their unique geological features and intriguing artwork. Day 5 ended with supper in the Royal Pavilion, an old concert hall on the beach in Ramsgate.
Day 6 was a day of “rest”—with the morning and afternoon free for the youngsters to browse around Canterbury, visit the Cathedral, enjoy each other’s company, and do some last-minute shopping. They had a chance to see The Point and take some pictures there. In the evening they joined Rotarians at the Kent and Canterbury Club for supper and a warm farewell. President Raj Dasan and lead organiser Martin Ward had some final words for the delegates, telling them how much we had enjoyed their company and wishing them well in their future lives and careers and hoping they have developed lifelong friendships. But the most heart-warming moment came when one of the youngsters, Jonas, gave a lovely speech:
“It’s an honour to stand here tonight and speak on behalf of all the delegates of MGSE 2025. This past week has been nothing short of extraordinary, and we are deeply grateful to every single person who made it possible. From the moment we arrived in Canterbury, we were welcomed not just as guests, but as part of your Rotary family – a feeling that has defined every moment of this week,” he began before continuing:
“Every conversation, every shared meal, every warm smile has reminded us that this exchange is not just about visiting a place, but about building connections that last a lifetime.”
He gave heartfelt thanks to host Rotarians and also to the organising team, giving each a personalised photographic memento of their trip.
“MGSE’s goal is to promote international understanding, goodwill, and peace,” said Jonas. “This week has brought that mission to life in the most powerful way. We’ve shared stories, laughter, and experiences that have connected us across borders and cultures. We’ve learned not only about this beautiful city and its community but also about each other. We leave Canterbury inspired, more open-minded, and with friendships that will last long after this week is over.”
A warm round of applause, a meal together, and then it was off for a night’s sleep before all the delegates set off for their respective homes the following morning. We hope that they will stay in touch with us and with each other, and build on the friendships and connections that have developed over the week.
Picture: A composite showing some MGSE Day 4, 5, and 6 activities. Picture credit: various MGSE participants/Rotary Club of Canterbury
