Mayor's Festive Visit to Bentswood Hub as over 90 children receive a xmas gift!

Published: 04 January 2022

Mayor’s festive visit to the Bentswood Hub and Grotto as over 90 children receive a Christmas gift from Santa!

The Mayor and consort were in a festive mood as they visited the Bentswood Hub to see all the wonderful work they do including Santa’s Grotto, the café and the free community larder.

Town Mayor Cllr Howard Mundin, comments:

Margaret and I were in awe of the fantastic community spirit that contributes to this wonderful neighbourhood Hub. All of the gifts were donated by local residents, schools and organisations and every single one of the 90 children visiting got to spend time with Father Christmas before receiving a special Christmas gift. We got to see the free community larder which is run by volunteers, who collect food from local supermarkets, and is then offered free for everyone who has a need. This hub was the brainchild of Anna Sharkey and our Town Cllr, Rachel Cromie - what a superb community idea and facility for our town!

The community larder and Hub are even open on Christmas Day for anyone who wants to pop along for a bit of company and a drink and snack! They run groups and clubs for all ages and free coffee mornings, advice and training for all. Anna and Rachel also talked to me about many of the plans they have for the future of the Hub including a sensory garden and improvements to the patio area and if anyone wants to get involved in these projects, please do get in touch with Anna or Rachel as without the support of volunteers, this amazing Community Hub could not continue.

I would like to thank each and every one of the volunteers and organisations who keep this Hub going and to wish them all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

Cllr Rachel Cromie, adds:

“It was amazing to show the Mayor the Christmas spirit at the Bentswood Hub. The volunteers have done an amazing job and given the children so many special memories. The Hub will remain open on Christmas Day so that no one needs to be alone at Christmas so please do come along!”

ENDS