A DOWNLEY community centre celebrated its 20th anniversary last month with a cake cutting event.

The Victorian school built 150 years ago was transformed 20 years ago into a 7 days week thriving community centre known as Downley Old School Community Association (DOSCA) in the heart of Downley Village. 

With over 30 regular hirers a week and 16,000 visitors per year, the centre is a place that hosts various activities ranging from toddler groups, art classes, dance lessons, the ever-popular beer and wine club and houses a community library that boasts a large collection of fiction, non-fiction and educational books. 

Being a non-profit charity, DOSCA has donated over the past 12 years more than £5,000 to local clubs and activities without increasing hire rates

DOSCA’s dedicated voluntary committee and trustees hosted a celebration on Friday, February 17, to recognise and thank those that have been instrumental in establishing the Charity and the development and ongoing maintenance of the building and its offerings. 

The celebration welcomed over 50 members of the local area that have all played essential roles within the Centre, from past and present hirers, former pupils, caretakers to local councillors.

A delicious buffet was provided by local caterer Rachel's Event Catering and Downley Co-op generously donated drinks for the evening. 

Guests enjoyed a presentation showing the changing building throughout the years, alongside being able to fondly reminisce with old friends. 

The DOSCA committee recognised David Worsdall, Chairman, and Paul Homer, Marketing & Purchasing, who have been active members in the committee for the entire 20 years, having dedicated endless hours to ensure a smooth running of the building that has always had community at the forefront of its purpose. 

For Downley Community Centre's most up to date weekly schedule of events and latest news, please be sure to find and follow their Facebook page or visit https://www.downley.org/services/venue/4/downley-community-centre/93