A DREAM COME TRUE FOR PALACEFIELDS (From Warrington Guardian)

A DREAM COME TRUE FOR PALACEFIELDS

A DREAM has come true for a dedicated team of volunteers - after 28 years.

Palacefields residents have been fighting for a community centre since 1972.

They have finally fulfilled their ambition thanks to the support of Riverside Housing Association who have spent more than £50,000 extensively refurbishing their former housing office in The Uplands.

"It is absolutely fantastic," said resident Derek Turner of the centre's management committee.

"Everything is brand new. It has been completely fitted out with new furniture, computers and office equipment.

"Now, we've got lots of things up and running, we're hoping people will come along and make use of the centre."

There are still some places available for a new computer course, which started on January 1. It is being run in conjunction with Halton College.

Creche facilities are available at a mum and tots group and a lunch club is held every Friday with bingo on Friday and Sunday evenings.

"We held an open day to find out what people wanted," said Derek.

"We are trying to introduce as many activities as possible."

Coach trips, social outings and a fun day are being planned. A youth club will be started as soon as funding can be secured for a youth worker. The equipment has already been provided.

"We are now trying to raise funds for an extension," said Derek.

"We would like to build another hall so we could offer more facilities."

A table top sale is held every Sunday morning towards the extension fund. It's also a chance for community groups to raise funds.

The centre is available for hire for private functions. The hall can cater for up to 80 people. An overhead projector is available for meetings or conferences.

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