A DEDICATED couple who played a key part in securing £500,000 funding for a community centre were the guest of honour at its reopening.
Roger and Dot Hanlon cut the ribbon to mark the official launch of St Raphael’s Estate’s new intergenerational and children’s centre today (Friday).
The pair, who have lived in the area for more than 30 years, were chosen because of their efforts in raising the funds to build the original centre in 1985.
The building in Rainsborough Close has undergone a £587,00o refurbishment financed by Brent Council and SureStart, so that it can be used more effectively to provide activities, services and resources for residents of all ages.
A local advisory group has worked with Brent Council on the refurbishment, which has included fitting a new roof, kitchen, windows, floors, and outdoor children’s play area.
A dedicated part of the building, run as a children’s centre, has been operational since April. This space offers stay and play, family support classes, healthy eating sessions, yoga and speech and language therapy.
The community can also access a youth club, reading and sewing group, Brent Citizens Advice Bureau, keep fit class, an energy surgery and first aid sessions. Plans are also in place to introduce other activities and services at the centre for the wider community.
Mr Hanlon said: “We were very pleased to be asked to cut the ribbon at the opening of the new centre.
“We take our grandson there and we are looking forward to using the new services and facilities.”
The opening celebrations were also be marked with a steel band, DJ, children’s activities, stalls from organisations who provide services and speeches.
