PERSHORE Wellbeing Hub celebrated its official opening with a gathering at Number 8 Arts Centre.

Serenaded by Dampier’s Round folk duo, attendees chatted over tea and homemade cakes whilst admiring the artwork of local children who had entered a wellbeing poster competition.

Dr Gill Perks, chair of the Hub and retired town GP, gave a speech in which she thanked all of the organisations that have donated time and funds in support of the project.

Town councillor Chris Parsons, who as mayor oversaw the early stages of the Hub’s development, was on hand to present a further cheque to Dr Perks.

This was followed by the presentation of prizes by renowned Worcestershire artist David Birtwhistle, patron of Pershore Arts.

Ten talented local schoolchildren received an enlarged poster of their work and a gift token for art materials.

Amongst those attending the celebrations were the current town mayor, Julian Palfrey, the chairman of Wychavon District Council, Cllr Robert Raphael, and several Wychavon members and officers, as well as Liz Tucker, retired county councillor and enthusiastic Hub supporter.

Local churches, schools, the Rotary Club, Volunteer Centre, Riverside centre, Leisure Centre and the NHS were all represented in what was a demonstration of how much our community has aligned behind this new venture.

During her speech Dr Perks explained that in the five months since opening the Hub has been visited by 600 people, approximately two-thirds women to one-third men.

Nearly three-quarters of these were helped in house, though the remainder were referred onto another local group or partner organisation.

The Hub’s excellent website provides additional support, and helpful advice and information. The Hub’s aim is to reconnect people after the enforced isolation of the pandemic, and to promote healthy and happy life-styles.

The Hub can be found at No. 4 High Street, Pershore, WR10 1BG, can be reached on 01386 555018, or online at www.pershorewellbeinghub.co.uk.