Micklefield Community Association 

## Trustees report for year ended 31 March 2024 

In 2024 Micklefield Community Association celebrated 35 years since the Centre was opened but sadly in December 2023 our Chairman, Jim Keen. who had been suffering severe illness died unexpectedly just a few years after his sister, also a volunteer at the Centre, had died unexpectedly. Ian Morton, the Vice Chairman stepped up to take on the role of Chairman and was confirmed in that role at the Annual General Meeting held in January 2024. 

The dancing group which meets on Mondays still continues, albeit with fewer numbers, as the age of dancers takes its toll. Zumba on Tuesdays has increased in popularity and this form of energetic dancing appeals to a younger age group. The day centre on Thursdays meets a particular need in the wider community and continues apace, Monthly bingo is, however, struggling to meet the numbers attending pre=Covid. Committee members elected in January 2024 settled in to enhance the Association’s activities as well revitalise the Social Club’s activities. The former bar steward who had been suspended, did not appeal his suspension and to date has not returned. However, a new team has now taken over with new ideas and has encouraged growth in membership through many initiatives which will be highlighted in next year’s report. After a long period of time the Social Club is now making regular payments to the Association and as a Sports and Social Club attracting a younger membership. 

Through the current Chairman the Association secured funding for single glazed windows to be replaced by double glazed windows and doors and this greatly enhanced the appearance of the centre. Also a grant was secured towards the refurbishment of the kitchen and toilets and by the year’s end all was completed save the final touches to the ladies toilets. 

New chairs had been delivered but there were some in an inferior condition and these had to be replaced (at no extra cost to the Association). At the end of the year discussions were in hand to refurbish the bar area and it was hoped that agreement could be sought and work undertaken during 2025. 

Thanks are due to everyone who has helped during this period. New faces are always needed to carry on the work of the Association as it is essential that a community spirit is maintained and the Association goes from strength to strength. Thanks must go to Vanessa Woods for acting as secretary IN ADDITION to her role as Treasurer as no volunteer was forthcoming. 

For me it was somewhat distressing to watch two films recently Wycombe World 1988 and Wycombe World 1989, the former showing the start of construction and the latter the opening of Micklefield Community Centre. Few of those in attendance at that time are still with us but it was their energy and commitment which gave us what we have today. 

Peter Cartwright         Trustee 

January 2025.