🌟 A Day of Inspiration

The anthem was born from a unique and ambitious challenge set by The Rotary Club of Retford: to write and perform a peace song in just one day.

Last October, Sheffield composer Luke Carver Goss led a creative workshop at which the children, supported by local Rotarians, teaching staff, and professional percussionist Gary Hammond, collaborated to write and perform the song. Their inspiration came from a specially written poem by renowned Yorkshire poet and broadcaster Ian McMillan.

By the end of the day, their creative energy had blossomed into an original anthem of hope—Peace Like a Flower.

✨ Giving Children a Voice

The project was conceived by Retford Rotary Club member Eddie McGarvey, inspired by Rotary International’s core mission of Peace and Conflict Resolution. Eddie wanted to give children a platform to express their perspectives and dreams for a more peaceful world. 

🎹 From Workshop to Performance

Following the workshop, the peace anthem was further developed by Musical Director Chris Edge and the choir at St. Joseph’s RC Primary School. Soon after, the children performed it live at Retford Town Hall during the Rotary Club’s Festival of Remembrance, touching hearts throughout the local community.

🎤 Recording the Message

In February, children from eight local RotaKids schools came together at Ranby House School to record the anthem professionally. The session included filming a moving video, directed and produced by Andy Lockwood of Jibz TV.

Now, their peace message is ready to reach the world.

📢 Now Streaming Worldwide

We are proud to announce that the ‘Peace Like a Flower’ single is now available on all major music platforms for audio download/streaming, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. The video can be viewed and shared on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. You can also follow the Retford RotaKids on X!

🌼 Support the Message of Peace!

Join in the fun and help amplify the voices of these inspiring children! What can you do to help?