Elmscroft Community Centre

This year the Elmscroft Community Centre celebrates its 66th Anniversary, however, because of its low profile and somewhat remote location, there may be many, who would ask what and where is it? The Centre is nestled away behind Brookside Villas on Armscroft. Originally, the wooden structures that make up the Centre, acted as temporary accommodation for school children during the re-building period, following the Second World War. Following the development of the Armscroft and Elmleaze estates, the buildings were converted into a Social Centre for the residents of those areas and by combining these names the Centre was aptly named Elmscroft Community Centre and was officially opened on the 26th March 1949.

The buildings are very basic, however, the functions of each building has a well-planned lay- out. For example: Although, the Main Hall can only seat an audience of 110 people, there is a stage and a supplementary backstage area which doubles up as a meeting room for various Committees and a Photography Group. The Long Room is a wooden hut that is used by the Keep Fit, Yoga and Kaleidoscope, a Junior Drama Group. Finally the refreshment area includes a small bar and lounge, situated in the “newest” section of the Centre, built in the mid 70’s and is the only brick- built structure on the site. With such limited space it is commendable that the space available is fully and effectively utilised by a very pro-active Association Committee. The photo shows the setting for their recent VE Celebrations day.

Today the club functions through the Elmscroft Community Association; with Chairman Keith Brain and wife Irene, who is the Art Group Co-ordinator prominently, featuring in the running of the club. To this day the club’s aim is unchanged in that it seeks to provide a Social activity for the people of the Area. To maintain this objective, a variety of clubs are engaged to use the Centre, as a base and for holding their regular classes. Whilst visiting the club, I was amazed at the programme of clubs, Interests and activities available throughout the week, both during the day and in the evenings also. The programme includes: Drama Groups for Adults and Children, Yoga and Keep Fit Classes for all levels of age and fitness. Ballroom dancing, Burlesque, Photography and Whist Clubs, and not forgetting the Model Railway Club.

Several of the Clubs have been at the Centre for many years including: The Adult drama Group, present the annual a pantomime, which I am assured are invariably successful productions that are eagerly anticipated by the membership. Keith directs and produces the pantomimes with a cast or “thespians” that are co-opted from club member ship and may or may not have previous acting experience! Essentially enjoyment is the underlying element in all activities at the club.

Another favourite show is the Kitty Ribbens Burlesque Review, held, three times each year; it always receives rave reviews after each performance. Kitty trains the ladies in vaudeville dancing, at the Centre; encouraging women to dance and perform without any inhibitions, whilst enjoying the whole surreal experience.

The Ladies Keep Fit class is run by Paddy Selway, who apparently is the oldest Fitness Instructor in Gloucestershire! Paddy is a lively lady of 82, who takes classes each Thursday afternoon, which are aimed at keeping people mobile and active by stretching and moving to a variety of pop music. Classes are open to everyone. As regards the future Paddy insists that she will continue for as long as she is able to and who would doubt her?

The Model Railway Club has been an integral part of the Community Centre for over 50 years. They too are preparing a first class exhibition of their Railway models which will be available for all to view at the open day in August. For any Railway enthusiast or this will be a welcome opportunity to not only sees the working railway models but also to draw on the experience and expertise of the Members of the Model Railway Club. I certainly sounds like a fascinating prospect!

I was also fortunate to visit when the Art Group was in full swing; there was vibrant atmosphere with around 40 “artists” participating in the last session before the summer break. With a member ship of over 60 artists, it caters for all standards, either serious artists or just social “painters”. However, everyone thoroughly enjoys this activity and take pleasure in exhibiting their works, given the opportunity.

They will not have to wait too long to exhibit their work , for as part of the 50th Anniversary celebrations the Club is preparing for an Open Day which will be held in August, during which all Clubs and Groups using the Centre will be invited to exhibit or demonstrate their particular subject. The whole Community is invited to attend, on the 8th August between 10am and 4 pm. There will be a full programme of events, activities and refreshments will be available. It is anticipated that it will be a day to remember in the history of the Elmscroft Community Centre.