Heatherlands Centre manager John Hanrahan with the Chairman of East Dorset District Council and HRH The Countess of Wessex
HRH The Countess of Wessex was welcomed to the Heatherlands Centre in Ferndown on 23 September to meet with volunteers and community groups.
She was officially greeted by several VIPs before the centre manager, John Hanrahan, took her on a guided tour and introduced her to volunteers Erica Lea, Andrea Grimshaw, Sue Blundell and the community police officer, PC Julian Humphries.
During a display and demonstration by Ferndown Jitsu Club, the Countess had time to talk to Sensei Rob, Jordan and the children.
Following a look round the soft-play group, she met with volunteer parents who help at the group, and played with some of the toddlers. She also talked to the Bus Stop Team and toured the new extension at Hopscotch Pre School.
After lunch with John and seven volunteers, Sophie unveiled a plaque to commemorate her day at the Heatherlands Centre.
John thanked the Countess for visiting and added, ” Well done. Thank you to all for your support today.”
Chairman of East Dorset District Council, Cllr Steve Lugg, said: “I was so proud of hosting this event for East Dorset, Ferndown and the residents of Heatherlands, with whom I have worked for a long time. This visit was recognition of you all, of our amazing young people, and of the incredible amount of local people working tirelessly to improve things for our community. “Do come and talk to John Hanrahan and Lorraine Clark about all the exciting things happening.”
For further information about the Heatherlands Centre, contact John Hanrahan on 01202 861706.
