Grand opening for Reigate's new community centre (From Redhill And Reigate Life)

Grand opening for Reigate's new community centre

1:00pm Monday 11th July 2011 in Local News

More than a thousand people turned out for the grand opening of Reigate's new £1.4 million community centre.

The centre behind Morrisons and Marks and Spencer, off Reigate High Street, was opened amid a flurry of family day fun.

Events and activities included a lunchtime concert featuring choirs and bands from local schools and ensembles, and `have-a-go’ sessions with local groups which use the centre.

Neighbour and celebrity chef Tony Tobin joined in the celebrations by cutting a cake and announcing the winners of a children’s art competition.

Visitors also took up their last chance to get their face included in a giant community mosaic.

The unique photographic artwork depicting Reigate’s Old Town Hall, is being designed by members of Reigate Photographic Society, printed by Canon UK, and is expected to take pride of place in the community centre this autumn.

The grand opening marked the culmination of seven years of planning and fundraising by members of Reigate Methodist Church, the centre's main sponsor.

The building, which opened for business at Easter, includes state-of-the-art meeting rooms, a sports and social hall, and a café in the foyer called The Hub, which is run by volunteers and is open Saturday and Tuesday mornings.

Reigate Methodist Church minister, the Reverend Clive McKie, said: “Today feels like a dream fulfilled.

“So much effort has been put into getting the community centre built in the first place, and then, since its opening at Easter, to get it established as a central part of the Reigate community.”

He said: “The take-up from local groups using the premises has already passed what we expected at this stage.

“Thanks to the hard work of many church members, today’s celebrations have put the community centre firmly on the local map and into the hearts of local people.”

The grand opening of the centre, which is owned by Reigate Methodist Church and completely staffed by volunteers, was made possible by sponsorship from Fidelity International, and raised £1,200, which will go towards the final shortfall in the community centre development fund.

For more details about the centre, visit its website: www.reigatecommunitycentre.org.uk To book a room call 01737 243975.

People wishing to be in the community mosaic but who were unable to attend the grand opening can send photos instead, with a minimum donation of £10, via the website.

All donations will go towards the community centre fund.