THE vision of a centre for young people has come of age in Brough with the official opening of the Corner Stone Centre.

Judy Dobson said: "It was 21 years ago I had a vision, and I believe it is God's will. We started with a youth group in my tea shop, Chofhs. The second week no children came, but we prayed. Eventually, we had so many young people coming we needed to find a bigger place to meet."

With four grants, fund-raising and gifts from local people, the committee raised the £44,000 they needed to convert the two-storey Victorian Reading Room in Brough into a modern, well-equipped community facility for young people and the community.

Judy added: "We are now raising money for running costs and we would like to be able to employ a part-time youth worker if possible to be based at the centre when it is completed.

"Our hope is that the Corner Stone Centre will be seen as a community asset to be used and supported by the community not only in Brough but though out the whole of the Upper Eden area."

Judy said: "On behalf of the committee, I would like to thanks everyone for their great effort and support which has raised thousands of pounds."

Lady Susan Henderson officially named and opened the new facility the Upper Eden Valley. Following a presentation and musical performances by members of the Chofhs Youth Group, patron Lady Henderson unveiled the plaque to mark to opening of the newly refurbished centre in the Old Reading Room, which she named The Corner Stone Centre.

Lady Henderson took time to chat with the young people and congratulate them on their musical performances. She told The Messenger: "It is marvellous what has been achieved here and the children are wonderful. Their performances were excellent."

May 21, 2003 09:30