Wirral vicar's brainwave leads to community project (From Wirral Globe)

Wirral vicar's brainwave leads to community project

12:13pm Friday 5th October 2012 in News By Geoff Barnes

A WIRRAL vicar’s brainwave has led to the transformation of an empty building into a community asset for all ages.

The Rev Beth Glover from St Mary’s Church in Eastham consulted local people for their ideas and Wirral Council responded with the creation of The Net @ 68 – a project providing after school facilities for local children, breakfast clubs and healthy eating lessons The venture, in Clifton Avenue, Eastham, is supported by the council’s empty shops fund.

Beth said: “We asked the local community what they would like to see and what would be most helpful to them in this revitalized space. Then we did what they told us.

“We are working with volunteers who are offering their services to teach visitors about healthy eating and how to prepare their own soups and breads.

“We are also opening a food bank to support local people who might be finding times difficult.”

Cllr Pat Hackett, Wirral Council cabinet member for regeneration, housing strategy and planning said: “The Empty Shops Fund has supported a wide variety of community projects, turning empty buildings into exciting new ventures.

“Some of the projects have been educational, some have been fun; The Net @ 68 is going to offer a huge selection of different opportunities for local people.”

The opening will take place at 12.30pm on Saturday October 20..

In attendance at the opening ceremony will be Alison McGovern MP, deputy mayor Cllr Dave Mitchell and the Bishop of Birkenhead, the Right Reverend Keith Sinclair.

For more information, telephone the Reverend Beth Glover on 0151 327 2182.