THE Orchard Centre trustees, past and present, as well as its lovely ‘business community’, gathered together — following current guidance — recently to celebrate three years since they took charge of the building.

In that time, the centre has been fully refurbished and is now full thanks to its wonderful business community.

Pat Orridge said: “We are so grateful to our first tenants Kensey Therapies and All Woman Beauty for being the first license holders in having faith in their vision for the building as being at the heart of supporting the local community.

“Throughout lockdown the various support groups continued and hopeful with the lifting of restrictions, life will return to normal for the whole building.

“We also chose today to celebrate the contribution that Mia Giudetti, youth worker of many years, has made to the young people of Launceston with a plaque dedicated to her that will go alongside the one dedicated in the memory of Bernadette Breslin.”

The youth club still thrives having held Zoom meetings during lockdown, a ‘Come Dine With Me’ competition on their return and many activities planned weekly.

The Orchard Centre trustees feel they have fulfilled their ambition of placing The Orchard Centre at the heart of things in Launceston.

Pat added: “Recently, with the new support groups of ManDown and Georgia’s Voice based here, Yvonne from the Food Bank has pledged their support with goody bags for all that attend and a planned fundraising activity in the autumn.

“Along with Sandy from The Mad American Barbers supporting the groups as well, it just goes to show how the community pulls together and supports our activities.”

Thanks were also expressed to Westgate Street Deli, The Red Chair Cafe and the new bakers under Southgate Arch, Penpeber’s, for their support and generosity as well as amazing burgers, rolls and cakes they provided for the awards day on Sunday.