Alan Shearer officially opened the Activity Centre on Friday 11 May 2007 in front of invited guests.
 
Alan releases 1000 balloons

Alan has kept a close eye on the construction of the Centre, and has been impressed with the high standard of craftmanship used throughout the Centre.


The Short Break service was officially opened on Tuesday 9 October 2007.  The service, which is registered with both CSCI and Ofsted, provides planned short breaks for up to eight adults or children.

Speaking in May, Alan Shearer said:

‘This is a great day.  I am very impressed with the Centre; I am so proud that I have been able to make a contribution to something so needed.  I know from recently meeting some of the families who will use it that the Centre will really make a massive difference to their lives.

‘It is very humbling to see at first hand families who cope with the needs of a disabled child or parent. 

I’ve been told that up until now they haven’t had anywhere to go to relax together. 

They can often feel ‘different’ or embarrassed at places most people take for granted such as restaurants or the cinema. 

I’m certain that the Centre will change all of that - it will give everyone choice and the chance to have fun as a family in fantastic surroundings.’


Austin Donohoe with Alan Shearer at the opening

At the Short Break service opening, Alan remarked:
‘When I was deciding to give the money away to charities this is why I chose this - because it's a very, very special centre.

'I'm flabbergasted at how it's turned out.  It was definitely the right decision to come here and put my name to it - I don't do that lightly.

'It's everything that everyone coming here would want it to be, not just the children but the adults as well.

'I'm honoured at the way it's all turned out.'