First birthday party for Lyde Green Community Centre
The Lyde Green Community Centre in Lyde Green on the edge of Bristol celebrated its ‘first birthday’ on Sunday 13 October, with an official opening ceremony and an exciting afternoon of activities – as well as plenty of birthday bubbles!
More than 150 local residents came along to join the fun, as demonstrations of Zumba, free face-painting, massages and mini catapault-making sessions took place in the spacious hall, all organised by the Lyde Green Community Association.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Cllr Brian Allinson, Chair of South Gloucestershire Council opened proceedings, celebrating the success of the centre right in the heart of Lyde Green.
Cllr Brian Allinson, Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, said: “It was a pleasure to cut the ribbon to mark the community centre’s first year. It is really great to see the local community embrace their new hub and make use of its impressive facilities. Thanks to the notable efforts of the Lyde Green Community Association, we now have a thriving hub of activity that offers something for everyone.”
Other guests at the event included the Rotary Club, local Scouts and St James Church
Sovereign’s community development officer, Scott Jacobs-Lange, said: “In a new community like Lyde Green it’s vital that community facilities are run by community members. It’s a big ask though, especially as most of the work done is voluntary. But members of the Lyde Green community stepped forward and worked hard to develop a business plan, secure funding and create a space that’s truly there for everyone. It’s more than a place to hire; it’s a space that connects people together and helps to make positive things happen. Sovereign has been happy to support LGCA to help them reach this important milestone.”
LiveWest’s Head of Resident & Community Investment, Vicky James, said: “Congratulations to all involved with the ongoing success of Lyde Green Community Centre.
“It’s been a pleasure to be involved from the beginning to support a sustainable project that is run by and for local residents. LiveWest is an organisation that thrives on helping communities and we were delighted to be have supported the group with a feasibility study and a business plan for the community centre.
“We have also provided some funding support and the expertise of our Community Investment team to help the community centre become the hive of activity that it is today.”
Notes to the editor
Lyde Green Community Centre boasts a large sports hall, two smaller meeting rooms, a therapy room, and a café all available to hire. Contact info@lydegreenca.org / 0117 957 0410 for more information, or visit their Facebook page.
Sovereign invested £25,000 in the establishment of the Lyde Green Community Association in 2018, funding the organisation to officially register as a charity, to produce a business plan for effective running of the centre, and to recruit a centre manager.