AN Open Day is being held at the Portway Annexe in March to demonstrate the wide range of activities that have started up there since it reopened nearly a year ago.
The building was bought by Wells City Council when Somerset County Council put it up for sale, and having been refurbished, it is now a thriving community centre used by hundreds of people every week.
“It’s been a year of challenges, but worth it to see the Annexe grow into a bustling community venue,” said Portway Annexe Manager Alex Westwood.
“We’re now home to more than 30 different hirers and groups including dance classes, fitness instructors, counselling and therapy, hobby groups and SS&L courses.”
The Open Day will take place on Saturday, March 25, from 12pm-4pm, when the public are invited in to talk to activity organisers and will have the chance to sign up for things that interest them.
“This is a great opportunity for locals to get to know the various events we play host to,” said Alex.
“Edgar Phillips, renowned stained glass and resident Annexe artist, will have his wings on show for photo opportunities, as well as being open to discussing his various charitable works and celebrity commissions.
“Wells Rotary Club will be promoting an exciting new event taking place this summer, and councillors from The Portway Annexe Management Group will be on site to gather public feedback, and find out what locals want to see more of at the Portway Annexe.”
The full weekly events listing can be found at wells.gov.uk/portway-annexe—what-s-on-
A physical copy is also available to collect from the Admin office at the Annexe.
There are still some spaces available for new activities, on Wednesday evenings, Friday afternoons and Saturdays. Of those who take space currently, Alex said: “I would like to give thanks to two groups in particular, the Portway Music School, whose passion for teaching has ignited a new wave of young musicians in the area, and the Djembe Drum Circle, whose relentless hard work and positivity has raised very generous weekly donations to the Music Rooms.
“We’ve also been working closely with Wells Community Network, as well as Anna Tumanova – our newly appointed Refugee Hub Manager – to support refugees with education, employment and supplying donations.
“The workload seems endless – but that’s how I like it. I’m excited to see what the next year will bring.”