By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
WITH a fanfare of bagpipes and a monumental sponge cake, Hallam Community Learning Centre rang in 30 years in high spirits on 21 April.
This learning hub began as a humble playgroup in a football change room.
Today in Kays Avenue, it’s a vibrant playground, early learning centre and a classroom for all ages.
Manager Dianne Wilson said the centre – packed with members, tutors and dignitaries for the birthday – was now an irreplaceable part of Hallam.
“There’s too much history here to just close the doors and start a new one.
“The thing that makes it special is the people who have visited, instructed, stayed here and helped with fund-raising.
“Many say it’s a home away from home.”
Sue Hall is one of several founding playgroup mums who have stuck around and helped run the centre – which holds computer, English as a second language, arts and crafts classes.
Ms Hall, a previous manager of the centre, still comes along for Red Cross and exercise classes.
“I know when I walk in the door there’s a friendly group of people.”
Another is current administrator Ingrid Broad. She became secretary in the centre’s early years, basically, because she could type.
Now she publishes the regular newsletter, works the payroll and keeps the books. She simply loves her job.
Mary McGill, another stalwart, takes part in folk art and quilting classes and a weekly face-to-face chat group.
“We’re all friends here and none of us are afraid to help each other out.”
Watch Berwick pipers as they play a rousing Happy Birthday.
