@RichieMills2

CELEBRATIONS broke out in Bradford on Avon last Friday to toast the one year anniversary of the town’s community hub which has gone from strength to strength.

The Hub@BA15 centre, of Church Street, hosted more than 80 people to their birthday event, including dozens of volunteers, trustees, Sainsbury’s representatives and other groups.

Since its inception, the centre has catered to nearly 750 people with food, debt and welfare advice for dozens, hosting events and meetings and much more – a matter that thrilled the hub’s coordinator Avril Clarke.

“What is exciting is that this is just the beginning. Our volunteers our fantastic, without them it would not work and for that we are very grateful. I feel really quite privileged,” she said.

“The year has flown by. I hope there is less antagonism about this as it is for the greater good and hopefully we will have many more years of success to come.

“There was a lovely buzz about the place and everyone was in high spirits. I just want to thank all our supporters, they are just amazing.”

The centre, which opened in March 2015 after two years of planning, operates as a foodbank, a debt management service, a citizens’ advice bureau, a credit union and other activities.

Deputy Mayor Laurie Brown and chairman of the trust added: “It has been a whirlwind year. It only feels like we opened the charity five minutes ago. It is very rewarding to see the help we give out appreciated and make a difference.

“We are proud of what this has become and overwhelmed by the thanks we have had. It has certainly surpassed my expectations. Not only do we help people in difficult circumstances, we provide them with a warm and welcoming place to go.

“It was a packed house and a fitting tribute to a very good cause. When we put this project together people questioned if it was necessary and I think we have shown that – it has been more than justified.”

The hub is governed by a trust made up of three sponsoring organisations – Bradford Churches Together, the town council and the Bradford on Avon Community Network.

Groups such as Age UK, Selwood Housing, Wiltshire substance abuse and dementia friendly sessions are also held at the centre which had more than £15,000 donated to it to get it up and running.