Wickford Community Centre

My father, Frank (Bob) Roberts, was on the fundraising committee for the Community Centre. Also on the committee were Mr. Land, Mr. Stone, Eric Merrin, Bill Proud and Colin Tyrell. There was a “buy a brick” scheme to raise funds and many raffles were also held. Mrs. Harvey, who owned the market, let them have a stall free of charge, to sell items to help the funds. There were also free film shows held where people donated money on their way out. Margaret Upton of the Mala School of Dancing held shows and pantomimes at the Senior School in Market Road. This is now the Junior School. Proceeds from the shows were donated to the Community Centre fund. The committee met at The Castle pub and I remember a party was held for the children with most of the items being donated by large national firms. I believe they had to raise £6000 before Basildon Council would pay the remainder. My father, aged 94, is still living in Wickford.