Report by James Lewer
One of Doctor Who’s arch enemies invaded Heatherlands Community Centre during a week of arty activities in the school holidays. Artists worked alongside parents and community leaders to open up children’s minds into an exciting new world. The theme of the week was space, which coincided with the announcement of the 12th Doctor and what better time to create a life-size model of a Dalek – an alien invasion in motion!
Community group leader, John Hanrahan was delighted by the numbers of children coming along: “We had 800 through the door in a week,” he said.
John feels these new projects including build a Dalek, film making and cosmic jellyfish puppets have vastly improved the variety on offer at Heatherlands. He said: “In the last five years, the workshops have gone from sitting round a table colouring in, to bringing in quality artists.”
He praised the support network, including community helpers and local supermarkets: “We’ve had lots of support this week. Sherrell and Minnie have been instrumental in the organisation of events. This year Sainsbury’s and Tesco’s came on board, they provided the food for some of the activities, and helped encourage healthy eating.”
Sherrell said, “The kids love getting involved, and it keeps them busy.”
John believes these projects should be given recognition for positive changes happening in the Heatherlands community.
Another aim is to use the Dalek model as a fund-raising tool, and John says: “If you see the Dalek outside a stall or supermarket, you’re going to have a look at it. If you can raise a smile, you can get people donating.”
