Eight-year campaign sees Larchfield with new community hub

Ribbons were cut by Maidenhead MP Theresa May to mark the opening of the Larchfield Community Centre in Desborough Park.

A fun day was had by all at the event on Saturday with stalls, face painting, a cake sale, tombola, raffle, games and archery on offer.

The centre, built on the side of the existing pavilion, houses a community room, reception area, small office and disabled toilet, as well as a kitchenette.

Sally Kinsella, chairman of the Larchfield Community Group, was happy to see the result of the community's hard work over many years.

She said: "We have been campaigning for eight years, fundraising, holding events and eventually the council agreed to supply us with a community centre, which I am very happy about.

"When I first saw the centre I was very shaky. It was overwhelming but extremely satisfying that we have somewhere where people can go to enjoy themselves.

"I would like to thank the Shanly Group and Pfizer for their generous donations."

The centre will become a focal point of the community by hosting weekly activities such as Get Active Rangers, coffee mornings, mums and toddlers group, youth club, bingo night, Sunday school and will also be available for bookings.

Mandy Carpenter, treasurer of Larchfield Community Group, said: "We have had lots of support from our councillors and the community who have come together whenever we have held fun days.

"We are absolutely chuffed to pieces."

Contact 01628 685999 or email larchfield@rbwm.gov.uk for booking enquiries.