City Council Millennium Egg recognises outstanding work of Wonderseekers
Winchester City Council (WCC) has presented the Millennium Egg to Wonderseekers, the charity behind Winchester Science Centre, at this year’s Winchester Business Excellence Awards.
The Egg, which is awarded annually, recognises individuals and organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to the economy of the district. It was presented to Wonderseekers by WCC Leader Cllr Martin Tod, on behalf of WCC Chief Executive Laura Taylor, at the awards ceremony on Thursday 18 June.
Wonderseekers has played an important role in the district’s economic, cultural and social life for almost 40 years. Winchester Science Centre welcomes around 230,000 visitors each year, supporting businesses across hospitality, retail, transport and accommodation.
It also reaches thousands of young people through its schools and community outreach programmes, engaging around 40,000 school visitors annually, alongside a further 16,000 pupils through activities delivered directly in schools and local communities, helping to inspire future skills in science, technology and innovation.
The charity also supports more than 120 wide-ranging jobs.
Recent acclaimed creative immersive exhibitions have included Van Gogh Alive, and three new outdoor exhibitions opening in July. Its For People & Planet 2030 strategy has also seen investment in low-carbon technologies and planned solar panel installation, supporting a more sustainable future.
Cllr Martin Tod, Leader of Winchester City Council, said: “Since the Egg was first presented in 2000, it has been awarded to organisations or individuals who have demonstrably made a real difference in strengthening our regional economy and contributing to our community - not just this year - but across many years.
“Wonderseekers’ contribution to the Winchester district has been truly outstanding. Through tourism, education, skills development, employment, culture and sustainability, the organisation continues to make a lasting difference to people across many communities.”
Ben Ward, Chief Executive of Wonderseekers, said: “We are incredibly honoured to receive the Millennium Egg Award. It is a tribute to our dedicated team, and our volunteers, partners and supporters who help us to create opportunities for a wide range of people every day. We’re proud of our four decades of contributing to the Winchester district - and very excited about what comes next!”
The Millennium Egg, a crafted ornament, was originally donated to the council by Jeremy France of Jeremy France Jewellers.
On the night, Winchester City Council Cabinet Member for Business and Culture Cllr Lucille Thompson presented the Sustainable Business Award to RJM International, a local company offering innovative green energy solutions. This award category was sponsored by WCC.