Update June 2023
Charity Number 1151083
It is with with great sadness that we have learnt of the death of [Kathleen] Anne Stratton who was one of our biggest supporters. Prefering to remain anonymous, she provided major financial support towards the initial purchase of our buildings as well as further regular donations. In fact the whole town owes her a big debt of gratitude for her altruism. She was heavily involved with the establishment of Abbeyfield House and gave much financial support to many local charities. Her biggest gift to the town was her two paddocks which enabled the Town Council to provide a much needed burial ground for the town. She was awarded a well-deserved M.B.E. in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June 2010. It was a privilege to know her and she will be greatly missed.
Anne Stratton
On a happier note our clients were able to enjoy preparing for King Charles’ coronation and we hosted the Coronation Afternoon Tea on Friday 5th May at the Centre which was organised by our local Buckinghamshire Councillors. Our Chairman Matt did a great job calling the Bingo and there were lots of smiles and laughter, as well as singing and our local MP Greg Smith also volunteered for the day, helping serve food and entertain the guests. Our clients were also treated to a special Coronation lunch.
Life at the Centre continues to lift the spirits of our clients who are able to enjoy the company of others as well as participate in activities they are unable to do at home. The arts and crafts sessions went down well with all types of ‘coronation’ items being made including crowns. The outdoor bowling continues and the warmer weather has enabled outdoor games and gardening sessions to take place. Indoors, clients continue to enjoy activities such as the parachute game, baking sessions, table games [Rummikub, Boccia, Scrabble, Dominoes], pottery [one client made an amazing plane], quizzes, art and singing among other activities. A local band also provided entertainment.
The trustees continue to oversee the enhancement of the surroundings and new cabinets have been fitted in the downstairs area. Biffa sent a number of volunteers who kindly did a makeover of the garden area and jet-washed all the paths. Kim, our manager who is a Jack of all Trades, along with Richard one of the trustees and Toby, a Biffa volunteer, patched up the pot-holes in the entrance to the car park.
We are planning for our Annual General Meeting which will be held on Thursday 13th July at the Princes Centre, 19.00 for 19.30 start. We look forward to welcoming anyone who would like to attend.
If you or your loved one would like a free taster of what we have to offer or would like to consider volunteering at the Princes Centre, please contact our manager Kim on 01844 345105 or Mags at Bourne End 01628 527024.
Maggie Wooster Keyte