£50k boost for activities centre (From Daily Echo)

BAA Communities Fund backs Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Activity Centre

5:00pm Tuesday 24th January 2012 in Eastleigh By Bethan Phillips, Reporter

An activities centre for disabled people has received a fundraising boost.

The Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Activity Centre in Manor Farm Country Park has been given £50,000 from the BAA Communities Fund, on behalf of Southampton Airport.

The money will be used to build a new kitchen and dining area next to the centre’s allotment – allowing youngsters to cook and eat food they have grown.

Chairman of the centre’s committee, Godfrey Olson, said: “This will broaden the opportunities of these young people and help give them the chance of being more self-sufficient.

“This grant will go a long way towards getting this new building up and running.”

Southampton Airport said they were pleased to be involved.

Spokeswoman Jan Halliday added: “We’ve been involved with the centre for many years and we’re delighted to be able to make this contribution to its development in this, the Queen’s diamond jubilee year.

“The new building is going to be a significant addition to the already fantastic facilities at the centre, and will fit in wonderfully with its surroundings.

“We’re planning on being hands-on with some elements of its construction, with a staff volunteering day, and look forward to seeing it finished later in the year.”

It is hoped the project will be completed by the end of the year.