Community Association President Penny Walsh was one of the first people to inspect the newly planted trees behind the Community Centre. She had approved the plan to remember two special people who had given a great deal of support to local activities and the Community Association. “They're beautiful trees to remember special people” she said “and I know they'll grow and be a permanent part of the peaceful patio outside our main hall.

One tree is dedicated to the memory of Bernard Spink who was always a bundle of energy. Bernard was a thespian and appeared in shows produced by both the Operatic Society and Forum Players. Jazz was one of his passions and, with help from Mo Hazael, he started the monthly Tuesday night CentreJazz sessions in the bar. Whenever there was an event Bernard could be relied upon to be there and willing to work. He was an active member of the Orchestral Concert committee and he looked after the centre piano - giving him time to play through a few jazz classics while he waited for the piano tuner to arrive.

Penny Walsh inspects one of the new trees at the Community Centre planted
in memory of Bernard Spink (left inset) and Henry Geddes (inset right)

Henry Geddes was a great supporter of any activity organisation with the local area. He left a generous donation to the Community Association which has been put to good use as part of a programme to make improvements to facilities at the Centre. As a great lover of nature Henry would have been delighted to know that a tree had been planted in his memory.

Anyone attending a function and using the patio area will be aware of the two trees. President Penny Walsh hopes that the trees will grow and flourish as the years go by and that these special people will remain in the memories of those using the Centre.