Chairs Report for the year of 2022. 

The year 2022 has been one of consolidation. With confidence growing as the country emerges from the effects of Covid, people have been returning to the interests they enjoyed before the pandemic. 

The Community Centre has supported the users of our premises to feel safe when under our roof and this has benefited many individuals in getting back to the hobbies and interests, they had previously enjoyed. 

We have continued to invest in the premises. New windows and maintenance have supported the longevity of the building. As always, there is plenty that needs attention in a building of a certain age. 

The updated heating and hot water system installed, after a few gremlins, is working effectively. 

We have been fortunate to gain grants from various organisations this year. Durham County Council and the councillors have continued to recognise that Lanchester Community Centre deserves investment as it continues to be a focal point of our community. 

We were unable to undertake as much fund-raising activities due to people feeling somewhat insecure in large numbers. However, we did go ahead with the Christmas Fayre, using a one-way system again. Hopefully next year will bring back the longed-for bacon sandwiches! 

We all the support given, we have maintained a healthy bank balance. 

Due to an unfortunate incident we had to review the safety of the building and its staff. Help and support from our local Crime Prevention Officer resulted in all the CCTV being upgraded and enables staff to view reported activity on the premises remotely.  We are also in the process of installing a digital door system for our customers and groups which will monitor access and secure the premises when unstaffed. 

We cannot become complacent and improvement must continue to ensure the Centres survival. 

With new groups wanting to use the premises, the future looks good. 

None of the above can be achieved without a great team to make it all happen. Alison, Paul, Steven and now the latest member of staff, Brandy, keep everything as it should be for the benefit of our users and the wider public. A great big THANK YOU to them. 

Also huge thanks to the Committee who support the staff and the building in many ways, without which we couldn’t open the doors. So again, THANK YOU! 

Bob Gibbons who had been the Secretary for many years, stepped down to enjoy more holidays. Again, I would like to thank Bob for all the great work he did and his friends at the centre wish him “bonne voyage.” 

I think the future holds good, which with new opportunities and the right attitude will enable Lanchester Community Centre to thrive and grow. 



Glenda Horne
Chair 2022.