£1,800 grant helps Fernhurst Centre install new coffee bar – with grand reopening planned for when lockdown is eased

The new high-seating bar with a window view was made possible thanks to a grant of £1,860 from the Grange Community Association, a Midhurst charitable fund which supports local not-for-profit organisations and charities which provide community, leisure and sports facilities.

Trustee Antonia Plant said: “With an excellent location next to village shops and appropriately distanced inside seating, the Fernhurst Centre is a great place to meet a friend for lunch or just a cup of coffee.

“After lockdown people will be keen to meet face to face in a safe environment, which is something we can provide.”

Grange Community Association trustees Joan Hursthouse and Mike Boyce presented the cheque to the centre before Christmas.

Mike said: “We have supported the centre in the past and are happy to do so again as our fund is specifically directed towards encouraging community based activities.

“We shared the centre’s delight when it was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service last June and consider our grants are put to good use promoting the excellent work done here.

“Any local not-for-profit organisation can apply to us for a grant if they have a suitable project in mind.

“There are full details on the Grange Community Association Facebook page and we are keen to get the message out there that funding is available for the right cause.”

Fernhurst Centre manager Pauline Colcutt said: “Now, more than ever, people want to support local organisations and, when tier restrictions permit, they appreciate having somewhere they can walk to but which gets them out of the house.

“We had a very busy December and are still offering language classes in Italian, French and Spanish, albeit online at the moment.”

The Fernhurst Centre will christen its coffee bar, and launch new lunchtime treats of fresh, locally made sandwiches and snacks, when current restrictions are eased.

Details of volunteering opportunities and the language, IT and other courses available can be found at www.fernhurstcentre.org.uk

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