Roy Fletcher Centre in Shrewsbury marks 30 years supporting local charities and voluntary groups

The Roy Fletcher Centre in Shrewsbury has marked 30 years of supporting the town's voluntary and community sector with a celebration attended by civic leaders, charities, trustees, volunteers and supporters.

Guests at the event on Monday, October 26 included the Mayor of Shrewsbury, Cllr Bernie Bentick; the Leader of Shropshire Council, Cllr Heather Kidd; and the High Sheriff of Shropshire, Katy Tanner DL.

Also among those present was Libby Cooper, daughter of the Centre's founder, Roy Fletcher, and a member of the Roy Fletcher Charitable Trust. Her attendance linked the anniversary directly back to the vision that led to the Centre being established in 1996.

Mr Fletcher, a Shrewsbury businessman and former local councillor, wanted to address the problems faced by voluntary organisations trying to secure suitable and affordable accommodation. His aim was to create a permanent base where local charities could work alongside one another and better serve their communities.

That aim remains central to the Centre's work today. It provides affordable accommodation and meeting facilities for local voluntary and charitable organisations, as well as its own community services, including digital skills support for older adults.

The anniversary gathering brought together people connected with the Centre across its history, offering a chance to look back on three decades of community service and acknowledge the role played by staff, trustees, volunteers and partner organisations.

Visitors were also able to view a specially created exhibition charting the Centre's history, from Roy Fletcher's original idea through to its current work.

Jenny Taylor, Chief Executive of the Roy Fletcher Centre, said the celebration was especially rewarding because it brought together so many familiar faces, including people who have supported the Centre over the years.

The Centre's Chair, Alan Bain, joined staff, trustees and supporters in welcoming guests and marking the milestone.

As it moves into its fourth decade, the Roy Fletcher Centre says it remains committed to providing a welcoming, accessible and affordable base for local organisations and to supporting the changing needs of the Shrewsbury community.

More information about the Centre's history and anniversary celebrations is available at https://rfc-celebrate30years.netlify.app/.