Torrential rain doesn't put a dampener on grand opening
The launch on Wednesday was a great success with many families and professionals gathering together at the Ark. This launch was the culmination of three years of work and partnership within the Tower Hamlets Children's Centre. Around 100 people endured some torrential English rain to attend the Children's Centre launch on Wednesday 14th June, 2006. This event marked the official opening of the Children's Centre extension. Many people had worked hard to make this event possible, both from within and without the Ark.
The auditorium hall was bursting with display stands from a number of community organisations. There were lots of freebies available! Shiela and June were serving refreshments in the conservatory and there were no pastries left at the end! Dan, Josh, Michelle Whittington and James Perrow were kept busy the whole morning, making sure the event flowed smoothly.
Short speeches were given by Eric and Jayne Tucker (SureStart Dover Director) and MP for Deal and Dover, Gwyn Prosser. Gywn has visited the Ark on a number of occasions. He noted that on each new visit the Ark has developed and grown in a new way.
The ribbon cutting ceremony happened in the porch of the new extension. Collette Evans, from Happy Feet and HomeStart, cut the red ribbon. Jayne Tucker and Gwyn Prosser were standing by her side. Representatives from the Dover Express and the Dover Mercury took pictures during the event. Please look into the local press for more information!
Guests were invited to have a tour of the new improved pre-school facilities. The pre-school looked really great and Gwyn mentioned the children enjoyment during his speech.
There were other facilities available on the day. For instance, an NCH creche, PlayLink activities for children and of course an appearance from Cedric the Dragon. The children in the pre-school asked if he breathed fire! The launch day was a great success but in many ways was just the beginning of more fuller collaboration with agencies and community groups.
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