Gilly and I met to help Arbourthorne Community Centre with a massive clear out. Luckily, lots of their regular group members turned up to help.

First job was to shift a load of unwanted rubbish and furniture into a skip. The area we were clearing was a stage in the main hall, which is currently blocked off. The hope is to be able to open it up and use it in future for shows, including for the centre's singing group.

A list had been made of cleaning jobs for each room. We focused mostly on the hall, removing years of dust and cobwebs, then sweeping and mopping.

As the day went on, we talked to staff and clients and we learnt about the various groups and activities that go on at the centre. We learnt that they are looking to "relaunch" in the community and secure funding for more projects. To help with this, they will be having an open day, and that is the main reason for today's big clean.

Finally, we were treated to a fish and chip dinner. We left once we couldn't find any more jobs to do. The hall, entrance, office, kitchen, toilets, cafe and computer room all got a spruce - surfaces cleaned, carpets washed, floors swept, cupboards sorted. We achieved far more than was expected in one day! It just goes to show what can happen when a community pulls together ❤️💪