On Saturday, 11th January, we held a very successful event at our new Community Hub at the Harebreaks. We have refurbished the building, which was formerly managed by Age Concern, with investment from our Better Communities Fund.

Although the grand opening was staged by Mayor Dorothy Thornhill and our Chief Executive Tina Barnard, I was of course, the star of the day and totally exhausted after signing so many autographs. It was so hard keeping all my fans at bay - the things we do for fame!! As this was such an important red carpet event even the paparazzi were there with their cameras flashing making sure they took every possible angle of yours truly that they could. And of course, all the children there just loved me.

The event had an incredible turn out and it was fantastic to see so many people come along and see what changes have taken place.

At the Trust working in partnership is paramount, as this in turn opens up so many opportunities if you live in the Watford and Three Rivers areas.

A prime example is the Dan Tien Performing Arts School, whose new studio is based at the Harebreak’s Community Hub. The studio which was in dire need of a refurbishment, is now unrecognizable. The school also contributed to the cost of the studio being specially fitted out as a performing arts space. With the amazing transformation from how the ground floor used to look, this in turn, has opened up new opportunities for its students.

The students performed in front of the visitors showing how passionate they are about their dancing. There were also music workshops and arts & crafts activities.

Another example of working in partnership, The Watford Deaf Club will continue its long involvement at Harebreaks using the facilities on offer at the Hub. Vibe 107.6 (Watford’s Community Radio) were also at the event on Saturday and they engaged with the local community Everyone seemed to have a wonderful time and it was fantastic to see the place buzzing with so many people. We want this to be a place where the local community can come together.

The Hub is a key project and we are committed to providing people in the neighbourhood access to services, education, exercise and a local meeting space. To find out more information about the Harebreaks Community Hub or anything else happening at the Trust, please contact me on trusty.house@wcht.org.uk.