MORE than 300 people helped a community centre in Speedwell celebrate its 40th birthday in style.
Meadow Vale Community Centre hosted steel pan music and circus skills workshops, drop-in art and Tai Chi sessions, and performances from the local Bring Your Own Baby (BYOB) choir and MDF street dance. A bouncy castle and face painting helped keep children entertained and there was also a lunch and 40th anniversary cake at the free fun day in July.
The centre opened its doors in 1986, in a former council corporation works building.
The Meadow Vale Community Association (MVCA), which took over the then-derelict building the previous year, has transformed it over the succeeding four decades.
In the past ten years, £600,000 has been raised by a band of five volunteers to renovate the first building and build a second, multi-purpose 100sq m hall, which opened three years ago.
Over the years, thousands of people have been through its doors to connect at events, learn new skills, access support services and take part in a wide range of activities.
The fun day was organised to bring residents, volunteers and supporters together to celebrate its success and show what it has to offer.
MVCA chair of trustees Jim Currie said the charity’s mission was to “put the heart into Speedwell”.
He said: “Community building is ever more important in many parts of Bristol and other cities. It provides a heartbeat, pride, a sense of belonging.
“Meadow Vale is one example of a small group setting out to provide the glue that binds together a diverse range of cultures, through the facilities and activities it provides.
“I have been inspired by so many people in our great city doing wonderful things for all sorts of communities. We are proud to have played a small part over the last 40 years, which is important to the people of Speedwell.
“We were thrilled with the anniversary event. What was so special was the diversity of ethnicities represented. They were all mixing and having fun with their families.
“To see the Speedwell community come together, knowing they are welcome and enjoying themselves, is what it’s all about.
“Our small team has worked so hard at Meadow Vale but when you see this outcome, you know it’s all worthwhile.
“And when we have a number of people telling us that they are going to come to other things, some saying they will help in a voluntary capacity, then this is so rewarding.”
To find out more about the community centre visit mvcaspeedwell.com.