Community dream brings tears of joy

It was an emotional day for those who have campaigned for the building for many years, even prompting one town councillor to burst into tears of joy.

The project was started by Cllr Tracy Willis who felt passionate about getting a building for the Cradle Hill community.

Town council clerk Len Fisher was involved in securing the funding.

The new 60ft by 13ft building had endured a long journey before arriving at its new home.

It began in Hull on Monday and then the drivers had to negotiate their way to Seaford, including Beddingham where a new road is currently being constructed.

The building was parked in a layby overnight between Denton Corner and Bishopstone.

At 6.30am the next day, the structure was escorted by police to its new home.

The building replaces the old Cradle Hill community centre.

Cllr Willis said she was overcome with emotion when the building was put in place and burst into tears.

She said: 'It is absolutely fantastic and wonderful. Words cannot describe how happy I am to have this building. It took such a long time to come to fruition.

'Some people wish for a pony or a boat but I just wanted something for this community which we could call our own.'

The building will be used mainly by children attending the Good Times pre-school, a business run by Cllr Willis, but will also be available to other community groups such as after-school clubs and the elderly.

Mr Fisher said: 'It is Tracy's project really. I just had to secure the funding which I did. I got 10,000 from the Lottery Awards for All scheme and have a bid in with the Co-operative Community Fund for a further 5,000.'

Cllr Willis added: 'This is for the community and it is up to them if they use it, but I hope they do.'