Our group was formed in October 2012 as a “one off” project to build a much needed children’s Multi Use Games Area “the MUGA”.
Given little hope initially we persevered raising £40,000 and the support of Great Aycliffe Town Council and many more, the pitch has become a great asset to our community and is well used. One thing led to another and we evolved into a very active and well recognised local charity. Our range of events and activities were all planned with social activity for all as a priority. Trips out to the Seaside, Afternoon Teas, Dog Racing, Theme Parks and many more, these cheap trips were very successful and always full.
However our annual Free summer Fun day proved very popular, Our last one beat all our previous records with over 1,500 people attending. We also planted thousands of Crocus and Mini Daffodils with local school pupils to enhance the area and carried out regular litter picks. Working with other Community groups and agencies has helped us improve the lives of many people.
So many people and different organizations over the years have helped produce this success. Too many to mention here, so I am writing to them individually to thank them all personally.
I must however, add a personal thanks to the Martin, Ann, Alan and Margaret who have been a great team to work with. Our “one off” project has lasted 9 years and we have raised over £140,000 all spent on making our communities a better place to live now the time has come for us to pass things on to a new generation.
Our Committee have unanimously decided that the balance of funds we hold should go to another Community project that has a lasting legacy for the future.
We were involved in the early stages of the 24 hour Aycliffe Defibrillator project started at Woodham Community Centre by David Sutton-Lloyd. The AED unit which we provided 3 years ago and which is held inside Greenfield Store is to be fitted outside and accessible 24 hours a day via a “999” call. The Singh family will maintain the unit and David will cover costs. This unit will be the 17th and will provide potential life saving equipment for many years.
All of the AED venues are being asked to make a donation to provide an emergency unit and back up pads. We have agreed to contribute.
As we bow out! Just one more point, thanks for being a great community.
Philip Clark
Chair on behalf of
Horndale Community Association
