A community activity centre in the Woodside area of Aberdeen has re-opened its doors after undergoing a £200,000 refurbishment.
Lord Provost George Adam yesterday took part in a ceremony to mark the completion of the 10-month revamp.
The newly modernised centre is run in partnership by the local Woodside Activity Centre committee and Voluntary Service Aberdeen (VSA).
The club had been in a bad state of repair since it first opened in February 1957.
However, thanks to a cash injection from the John Gordon Trust, the Morningfield Association and money left to the people of Woodside by Raymond Wilson, the centre has been revitalised to support activities such bowls, computing and even line dancing.
Mr Adam, a Labour councillor for Hilton, Woodside and Stockethill, said: “The building was indeed in need of refurbishment, and it’s really opportune that the VSA had the legacy from Raymond Wilson to be used for the people of Woodside.
“This building has had huge improvements and it looks so much cleaner after its makeover.
“It’s so good that it’s a valuable community resource, and by making it more attractive more people will use it. Already with the involvement and the partnership with the VSA, the usage is widening out from just older people.
“Now we’ve got the Friends for Life based here, who provide a place for younger people to hang out.
“For the older 50’s you get everything from social dancing, arts club, bowling, games, and anything that old people like me like to enjoy.”
Kenneth Simpson, chief executive of VSA, said: “One of the biggest problems for older people is social isolation, and this gives a lot of social contact not just at the club but for friendships that develop beyond the club.
“It provides the catalyst for building friendships across the community, you come here and make new friends and prevents a lot of loneliness.
“Apart from the club they have all sorts of activities like Christmas and Easter events, outings, and fish supper evenings, which is my particular favourite.”
New members are welcome at the Clifton Road centre, for more information call 01224 486425.