Lady Stubbs speaks at St Margaret's Family Centre re-launch

A reception was held yesterday at St Margaret's Family Centre, in Ladbroke Grove, west London, (run by the Catholic hildren's Society) to celebrate the completion of their revamped premises and new computer suite. An appeal to develop the outside play areas was also launched. Director Jim Richards introduced special guests, Lady Maria Stubbs, the Mayor of Kensington and Chelsea, Christopher Buckmaster, and Bishop Bernard Longley, the Society's new chair. Cllr Buckmaster outlined the work of CLIKC Online, a community project which has set up 20 computer centres to enable people to learn IT skills. Lady Stubbs then presented certificates to six people who have already completed 'European Computer Driving Licence' courses at St Margaret's. They are: Sharon Price, Sue Deachpibal, Imelda Kelly, Mary Lyons, Toolsie Pavaday and Tracey Pham. The centre provides a range of services to families in the area, including training and daycare facilities, a mother and toddlers group, outings, parties and holidays. Lady Stubbs praised its work which she said: "has substantial effect on the local community." "As a mother and grandmother of four now, I understand what an incredibly difficult task caring for children is. Mothers need respite and support more than ever today, and this centre is providing a wonderful service." She welcomed plans to extend St Margaret's links with Cardinal Vaughn and Sion-Manning schools. Guests were then treated to a concert from the Sion-Manning Soul choir. Silverly Alien sang 'Imagine' and Neam Sherman sang 'Time After Time' with Jess Bushey on bass and musical director Paul Edmonds on keyboards. Bishop Longley, assisted by a little girl called Beverley, carrying Holy Water, lead prayers and blessed the centre. An appeal has now been set up to raise funds to revamp the existing play areas, and build a small nature garden for young children dedicated to the Society's past chair, Bishop Philip Harvey. For more information, or if you would like to support their work, visit the Catholic Children's Society Westminster) website at: www.cathchild.org.uk To see pictures of the launch visit: www.cathchild.org.uk/stmrelaunch0307.html