At the recent annual general meeting of the Bircham Centre, Reepham’s community hub and garden in the Market Place hosting local groups and activities, Les West stood down as chair of the trustees.
Les West (left) and Tina Pashley in the Bircham Centre garden. Photos: John Tym
Mr West was thanked for his support by the incoming chair, Tina Pashley, and wider thanks were offered at a gathering in the walled garden on Sunday 23 June.
During his tenure Mr West dedicated his time and skills to consolidating policies and procedures of the centre, while also taking an active role in community events.
He will stay on as a host for the Warm Room sessions and will also continue with work to build on the successful Reepham Archive talk.
Mr West said he felt he was leaving the centre in good hands and promised his continued support of the local community.
Some of the highlights during his five-year term of office included:
- supporting the last chair with the Bircham Centre centenary celebrations in 2019
- steering the centre through the Covid-19 lockdowns and subsequent re-opening.
- finding funds and completion of a refurbishment programme for the hallway, book room and kitchenette
- the Raise the Roof Campaign and repair works to the centre
- the acquisition of a community engagement worker for the year
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many successful grant applications, including one for the window refurbishment project.
Ms Pashley said: “Taking up the role of chair is an honour and one I embrace with enthusiasm and a sense of deep responsibility.
“My background in communications and research have taught me the importance of listening, collaboration and creative thinking.
“I look forward to bringing that experience and energy to the next chapter in the centre’s history, working closely with our amazing employees, volunteers and supporters.
“As chair, I’ll be dedicated to ensuring the Bircham Centre remains a vibrant, welcoming space for all.
“Whether you come to browse the charity and book shops, the library, the Country Market, enjoy tea and cake in the Warm Room, come to play bridge, board games or meditate, hire rooms or simply enjoy a quiet moment in the garden, I want you to feel welcome and at home.
“So come and introduce yourself, share your ideas and let’s shape the next chapter of the Bircham Centre together.”
