STAFF and volunteers at The Hub, in Barnard Castle, welcomed High Sheriff of County Durham Peter Candler for a recent tour of the centre’s facilities and grounds.
He was joined by members of the County Durham Community Foundation, which provided funding for The Hub’s enriching lives programme, a scheme to boost learning skills for the elderly.
The visitors were introduced to those taking part in the enriching lives music and relaxation group, which meets every Wednesday for an informal music session in the studios with experienced tutors, followed by a light lunch and a relaxation session to finish.
Tom Whittaker, music co-ordinator at The Hub, said: “The group is open to anyone aged over 50 who wishes to take up an instrument, rekindle a lost talent or simply meet like minded people.”
After a lunch using some produce grown on site, Mr Candler and members of the foundation were given a guided tour of the People’s Garden in the centre’s grounds.
They met volunteers, including Holly Brown and Graham Moore, from the Veg Out in Barney project, which develops spaces for volunteers to grow fruit, vegetables and herbs that can be picked and used by members of the community.
Vicky Taylor, event manager at The Hub, said: “It is great to see such a wide variety of groups, volunteers, young people and families using the centre.
“We are helping to reduce isolation in Barnard Castle as regular visitors continue to make new friendships and gain new skills and confidence.
“We are grateful for the support of Peter Candler, High Sheriff, and to the County Durham Community Foundation, and look forward to working with them again.”
