We are delighted to share the news that Larry Watson received special recognition at the Pride of Reading Awards yesterday. Larry has tirelessly provided leadership for the centre and has ensured its survival over 30 years. Last night's mention was a small way for us to share our appreciation and we hope the pictures and presentation were a welcome reminder of all the wonderful and awe inspiring work that Larry has done over three decades at the Rising Sun. Following Larry's recent retirement, we hope to keep his ethos and principles alive in the centre going forward. Thank you Larry!

And... we won the Grassroots Music Award! We are so proud of the many music groups, ensembles, promoters, artists, bands, solo artists and community groups who have played at the Rising Sun Arts Centre over the years. There are too many artists to name, but a big shout out goes out to every person who has turned up and sung, played, performed, organised... and who believe in our beautiful building and the Rising Sun as a vital grassroots space to make art and music.

And, let's not forget the volunteers within the Programming Team, the Sound Team, and the Bar Team who tirelessly provide a welcoming space for artists to create and perform. Whether it's lugging the PA system out of its cave every week, stocking up the bar, cleaning the loos, frantically searching for more change for the till... volunteers make it happen every week. Thank you!

GO TEAM!