Centre Windows 2.0

A well-attended Annual General Meeting of the Jericho Community Association heard of the events of the year. Chair Charlotte Christie reported on a wide range of activities, which in addition to running the Community Centre included a very successful Street Fair, and working with the Jericho Wharf Trust on the development of the canalside site "Repairs and maintenance were a high priority. We had delayed major works in the hope of a decision on a new Centre. As this seemed some way off, the committee had the external woodwork repaired, redecorated and in some cases replaced. In addition the boiler failed in some of the coldest weeks of the year. While repairs were being done, we took the opportunity to have the kitchen and toilets painted. Local residents have also lent their skills and we are particularly grateful to volunteers from the Baptist Chapel who sanded down the café floor. " "We were very sad to lose two active and faithful supporters of the Centre -- John and Cyril. John Radford was a member of the committee and represented the views of older residents with commitment and humour. Cyril Pead, husband of Sue, was the cleaner for the Centre but much more than just that and would regularly help out in many other ways." Administrator Sue Pead reported on the many activities at the Centre, particularly for children, from ballet to boxing. For the other end of the age spectrum, Anne Mobbs described the exercise classes and outings that she organizes for the Alive and Kicking group. Treasurer Peter Stalker said: "In terms of our normal business activities we had a fairly good year. Our total income from rents and classes was £45,266, almost exactly on budget, which was a £3,000 increase on the previous year. As Charlotte explained, we had a large repair bill of £18,255, partially offset by a grant from the Council of £5,000. As a result we made a loss of £11,469. Though this could also be seen as an investment in the fabric of the building which will be sold to help build the new centre." As the number of nominations matched the number of posts to be filled there was not need for voting. The meeting approved the following appointments: Chair, Charlotte Christie, Vice-Chair, Paul Hornby; Secretary, Jenny Mann; Treasurer, Peter Stalker. Committee members: Adrian Arbib, Jonathan Beswick, Scott Ellis, Hannah Kirby, Anne Mobbs, Phyllis Starkey, and George Taylor. After an interlude for refreshments, there were two presentations. Mike Wigg of the University Estates Services give an update on the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter including some interesting archeological discoveries. Callum Miller reported on the building of the Blavatnik School of Government which should soon be rising above the hoardings. Finally David Feeny of the Jericho Living Heritage Trust invited residents to the events on the Canal Heritage Day on May 3.