Silkstead Sunflowers Shine Bright for Long Covid Kids in 2025

Thanks to the generosity of festival-goers, we’re thrilled to announce Silkstead Sunflowers raised an incredible £1451.68 for Long Covid Kids.

We were honoured to be chosen as Charity of the Year by Silkstead Sunflowers, who dedicated their Sunflower Festival 2025 to supporting children and young people living with Long Covid.

These funds will directly support our mission; helping us provide peer support, reduce stigma, support research, raise awareness, and continue our advocacy.

Organised by Kayleigh and Geoff Venn, the calming festival has become a much-loved highlight of the Hampshire summer calendar. This year’s event, held across the Bank Holiday weekend, welcomed visitors to a 10-acre field filled with fun; from the sunflower maze and viewing tower to live music, alpacas, handmade stalls, glitter face painting, pony rides and delicious local food.

🌻 A heartfelt thank you to Kayleigh and Geoff, the festival team, the families who shared their stories, the media for amplifying our cause — and every single person who came, picked sunflowers, donated, and supported us.

Your kindness has made our community smile.

Sammie McFarland, Founder & CEO, Long Covid Kids said:

“From community events like the Sunflowers to national platforms such as the Covid Inquiry, raising awareness in different ways is vital to improving the experiences of children and young people. We’re so grateful to Silkstead Sunflowers for shining a light on this important cause and helping us show families they are not alone.”

Sammie joined the celebrations over Bank Holiday weekend to thank the organisers and connect with a member who came along to help raise awareness and represent the charity. Hearing their lived experiences reinforced why visibility matters.

The festival drew the attention of local media, with coverage in both the Daily Echo and the Hampshire Chronicle.

🌟 Want to Get Involved?

If you feel inspired by the Sunflower Festival, we’d love for you to consider fundraising for Long Covid Kids. Whether it’s through a community event, a personal challenge, or workplace support, every effort helps us to continue shining a light on children and young people living with Long Covid.

We’ll be with you every step of the way, offering resources, guidance, and encouragement to make your fundraising both fun and impactful.

👉 For more information please email us