Malcolm Robinson

THE LODGE IS NOW OFFICIALLY OPEN! Last Saturday hundreds flocked to The Lodge, home to new social enterprise Leading Link. Throughout the afternoon at the new community building in Bedlington, there were family activities demonstrating what will be on offer to the community and their families. This included taster classes in Zumba and "˜Just Jhoom!', toddler sessions, proggy matting and "˜Knit & Knatter' sessions, a new breakfast cafe, sponsored bike ride in partnership with WatBike, art and woodcraft sessions, a mobile skate park, children's themed parties, acoustic music evenings and table top sales. In addition, traditional fun day activities were on offer, including a BBQ, salad bar, cup cakes, balloon making and even a bear hunt! The Lodge was then formally opened by Ian Lavery MP as he cut the ribbon, witnessed by the local families and schools alike. He acknowledged in his speech how welcome the arrival of Leading Link is to the people of Bedlington and also urged the community to support the not-for-profit business and make use of the building's facilities. Nick Bowen, former headteacher of St Benet Biscop High School, was invited to speak about what The Lodge means to the schools as he had supported the project from its inception. He represented not only the high school but the whole Northumberland Catholic Partnership of Schools who had integrated Leading Link's plans into their calendar as they all are so enthusiastic about the opportunities the Lodge will offer their students and families. He said: "This is an innovative and unique approach to really link the school with the community and truly enhances St Benet Biscop's and partner schools ethos of being outward facing schools. I felt very proud on Saturday. We achieved and will continue to achieve great things" The whole day was run by the Youth Ambassadors, a 50 strong group of trained young people who volunteer their skills and time to Leading Link. Lyn Horton, manager of Leading Link, said: "They have worked tirelessly over the last 2 years to help raise the £130,000 needed to have this purpose built building for the benefit of everyone aged 0 "“ 120!" "Some of them actually cycled the 21 miles, jumped off their bikes and manned the stalls and activities in the afternoon. They really are fantastic at what they do." Other Youth Ambassadors, led by Jonny Hall, an ex-student of St Benet Biscop and now working for Leading Link, ran the entertainment marquee all day. He added: "The Ambassadors' reputation is growing and they are superb role models for younger children. It is an absolute pleasure to be working with them." Fiona Gray, co-chair of the Youth Ambassadors, was given this year's Choppington Champion award by Councillor Ray Butler on the day too. Leading Link's main focus is to be the driving force of youth and adult involvement and leadership. They will be offering an adult volunteer course to run alongside the Youth Ambassadors which will include training on health and safety, first aid and skills training including art, drama, film and radio, cooking and sport starting this November. If you would like to get involved in this course or want to know more about the activities and workshops, drop into The Lodge situated at the front gate of St Benet Biscop grounds or contact Lyn Horton or Julie Greener via email lyn.horton@leadinglink.co.uk, mobile: 07950 763613 or visit www.leadinglink.co.uk.