Orpington’s Chimps and Chums Bricks and Crafts Day proved a hit this week, with families, young creators, and local supporters filling the BID office for a hands‑on celebration inspired by the town’s much‑loved Chimps Are Family sculptures by Gillie and Marc.
The free half‑term event invited visitors to build, design, and get creative on the theme of family, community, and connection echoing the message behind the internationally recognised chimp statues that have become a fixture of Orpington’s public realm.
Adding to the buzz, BID Board Director Marie McVey of McDonald’s Orpington dropped in to take part, contributing to the collaborative 3D artwork that will continue to grow over the coming weeks. The evolving piece, built brick by brick by members of the community, will be displayed inside the Orpington 1st BID office once complete.
The day was warm, lively, and well attended, with many families staying to add their mark to the shared creation. It’s another example of how Orpington’s town centre continues to bring people together through creativity, play, and a sense of shared ownership.
