Susan Sutherland (right), project manager with Mary, secretary of the management committee set out for The Palace
To her “total surprise,” Susan Sutherland, Project Manager of the Turbary Resource Centre in Ferndown received an invitation to the recent Royal Garden Party in the grounds of Buckingham Palace.
She was invited by the former Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Mrs Valerie Pitt-Rivers in recognition of the service to the local community provided by Susan and her team.
Mrs Pitt-Rivers has long been familiar with the work of the Bus Stop Club, a charity based at the Turbary Resource Centre, where Susan organises activities including a weekly Job Club, the Friday night Community Cafe, 1:1 support for parent and debt counselling as well as family craft sessions, IT skills and local food support. The Centre has recently launched a listening service in co-operation with local GPs.
Susan said,”My first thought was what shall I wear? followed by who shall I take with me?”
Unfortunately, the weather was not great on the day but spirits were raised by the sight of Her Majesty, brolly in hand. Prince Philip, Prince Charles and other members of the Royal family were in attendance.
Susan continued, “We had a lovely tea with sandwiches, cakes and tubs of strawberry ice cream. We were not chosen to speak to any of the Royals, which was a bit of a relief, but we enjoyed being there and meeting other people who are also involved in their local communities.”
For more information about The Bus Stop Club visit www.thebusstopclub.co.uk,
well deserved. Susan is a fantastic lady.