Beeching park open day

Centre Manager Helen Bridger said: "It has been busy and fun, but quite relaxed as well. It has been a really nice day. We held this open day because we have recently had a lot of money spent on refurbishment '“ we have had the roof redone and solar panels fitted and we have new fencing '“ a lot of money has been spent. We have also had a review of adult social care and that has come to an end, and so this is an opportunity to celebrate the newly refurbished building, the future and what we are doing here."

The new system of 58 solar panels on the roof are capable of producing 8,000kw of electricity and preventing the release of nearly 3.5 tons of CO each year. It has been in place since July and Helen reckons the building has saved 178 in electricity alreadu thanks to the solar panels.

Beeching Park has 45-50 service users from age 19 upwards '“ the oldest service user currently is 76 years old. They are able to take advantage of a wide range of courses and clubs such as photography and gardening, and the aim is to help them build on skills for the future.

As a result of the adult social care review, Beeching Park will focus on its gardening skills with the idea of encouraging service users to go on to employment or simply take part for enjoyment.

The open day included ploughman's lunch as well as tea and refreshment in the afternoon, and allowed families and visitors to look around and enjoy the different clubs and their display, including the highly popular train club with its tempting lay-out, as well as take part in karaoke and silk painting.