Down Memory Lane (2)

CORE TO THE FORE

For a number of years a successful community group known as ORCA, which stands for Oak Road Community Association, did much good work in the Oak Road area of Tunbridge Wells. Then there was a falling out between members of the committee.

A new organisation was formed by some members of the old ORCA committee. The new organisation is known as CORE: Community of Oak Road Estate. I played a very minor role, attending two of the group's early meetings, advising on opening a bank account and writing a constitution.

CORE has gone from strength to strength. It organises barbecues, sports days and fun days but it has no building apart from a very small room in an old pavilion. CORE moved into the pavilion when it was in a decrepit condition and smartened it up.

Now CORE wants larger premises so it can develop indoor activities: housing surgeries, youth club, coffee mornings and the like. To achieve this it needs to raise £165,000.

CORE is an excellent example of what a group of determined residents can do to improve life in their community.

CORE has a track record of achievement and I believe it will reach its financial target.