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Thornton Community Office closed its doors on 8th September 2009 – earlier than had been envisaged because of problems with funding.
In 2004, Lancashire Police mooted the idea of a Neighbourhood base manned by volunteers and 20 people applied. It was initially funded by the Wyre Borough Council to enable residents of Thornton to liaise with the Police through the vetted volunteers. On 1st November 2005 the project opened at Wignall church hall but it was soon realised that larger premises were needed to house the rapidly expanding Neighbourhood Police team. Premises at 37 Victoria Rd East that were more suitable and more central became available and a lease was obtained by two of the volunteers with a view to housing the CBMs and PCSOs. Funding was a problem but thanks once again to the WBC, Wyre Strategic Partnership, Wyre Housing – the main contributors – the office was able to open from November 2006.
Unfortunately it has not been possible for the Police to take up permanent residence as a Neighbourhood base but over the past 3 years it has been a calling in point for the CBMs and the PCSOs of the Community Beat Team. The project widened its horizons by becoming a community office where a varied range of problems could be dealt with.
Through the association many of the volunteers have been involved with spin off projects such as Help the Heroes, collecting items for the homeless, children in Africa, animal charities, Thornton Christmas Lights, local charities etc., and have been happy to be of service both to the Police and the community.
Thursday 10th September saw a final get together with the local Police officers and it was touching to receive a card from them thanking us for our support and hard work.
However, Lancashire Constabulary have given a commitment to the people of Thornton that they WILL have that much needed base in Thornton and are actively looking for suitable premises.
Thanks must go to all those organisations that have funded the office, also to Councillor Ramesh Gandhi, County Councillor John Shedwick, Bill Reed (WSP) and Lancashire Constabulary officers who have been great supporters of the project and without whose advice and encouragement we couldn’t have continued.
Finally, I personally would like to thank every volunteer for their support, hard work and loyalty over the past 4 years, it has been great to work with such warm and friendly people who have given their time freely to the community.
Irene Horner Secretary Thornton Community Association
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