Wellingborough community centre looking to the future after successful first year

Glamis Hall in Wellingborough was at risk of closing until a group of volunteers teamed up to keep it open.

They succeeded in persuading Wellingborough Council to transfer it over to them as a community asset and have not looked back since, including celebrating the first anniversary of re-opening to clients this week.

Heather Saunders from the Glamis Hall For All committee said: “The main thing is we are making a difference to people’s lives, that’s what it is all about.”

There are about 130 people registered as clients, with anything between 25 and 50 turning up each day for the lunch club and VIP club.

Betty Ashton, who helped fight to keep Glamis Hall open, goes along twice a week and said: “It’s wonderful, better than before.”

About 40 people also volunteer, helping out with events, driving and cleaning.

Graham Campbell from the committee said: “The volunteers are fantastic to give up their own time.”

Support has also come from the local community, including Dukes Court which recently donated £500 and Cllr Liz Coombe who has supported numerous events.

They have a calendar full of events for the coming year, including the monthly car boot sales and their first wedding has been booked in.

They are also looking to set up their own football team and they want to continue making Glamis Hall a hub for the whole community.

Heather said this year’s challenge will be the building as they would like to sort the roof, plumbing and electrics.

For more information about Glamis Hall and the services it offers, go to www.glamishall.org.uk.

Anyone who would like to volunteer can call 01933 677326.