Ascot Day Centre, Sunninghill

History

During the 1970‘s, Dr Geoffrey Chandler, the Senior Doctor at Magnolia House Surgery, Sunningdale, had recognised that there was a strong need to establish a centre for the elderly within the Ascot District.  The Day Centre would offer support, to enable the elderly to continue living in their own homes for as long as possible by offering a friendly and pleasant environment during the day, where they could meet and engage with others, be involved in activities and enjoy morning coffee, a hot two course lunch and afternoon tea.

In 1975, with the support of other like minded people within the community, including current trustees, June Martin MBE and Elvira Fletcher, a luncheon club was established, at first using the Council offices (then attached to Kingswick House), for 2 days a week.  Later, using the Cordes Hall,Sunninghill.    Months later, a porto-cabin was erected on the current site.  It was funded mainly by Help-the-Aged and supplied by Hallams of Langley.

In 1978, through the determined efforts of Dr. Chandler and his colleagues, a site was obtained from the Borough and funds raised to enable the current premises to be built.  Dr Chandler became the first Chairman of the Day Centre, supported then by June Martin as secretary.  Dr Chandler stepped down as Chairman in 1981 and was ably replaced by Charles Riley, Local District Councillor.  Mr Riley’s aim was to have the new premises built in brick.  The portocabin was transported by air to Coworth Park School. The new brick facilities were open 5 days a week, to anyone over the age of 50 years and living within the local community.

June Martin remembers with great enthusiasm, that the Centre was opened by Lord Lieutenant Gordon Palmer.  At the time the ribbon was being cut, everyone looked up to the clear blue skies of that particular day to see the sight of Concorde flying past from London Heathrow.

In 1991, Mr Charles Riley was replaced as Chairperson by Mrs June Martin. In 1993, June established Day Care Plus, a Saturday operation, organised to provide the less physically able with an alternative place to go, once a week, to meet other people.  This also allows their Carers and families to have some respite.

June Martin has worked tirelessly in the voluntary sector within the Ascot District and was awarded the MBE in 2000 for her services to the community.  In 2006 she retired from being Chairperson of the Ascot District Day Centre but continues as Honorary Life President.

There have been only a few Day Care Leaders over the years, which shows great dedication to the role:-

• Sylvia Cope was the first Day Care Manager with service of over 10 years. 
• Heather Hogben worked for the Centre until ill health forced her retirement.
• Jackie Mann, RGN,  is now our current Day Centre Manager, supported by Assistant Manager Maggie Cavanagh, ensuring that a friendly and  caring environment is consistently delivered.

The Day Centre would not exist without the many volunteers.   Elvira Fletcher, Judy King Farlow, David Jenkins and Daphne Fox are our longest serving volunteers to date.

Whilst the Ascot District Day Centre is run as an independent Charity, the Community and Councils of the Districts of Ascot, Bracknell and Windsor have always been extremely supportive.  Generous donations from local charitable trusts, the new Benefactors Club which also bring together many private donations and additional fund raising activities have generated sufficient funding to maintain this invaluable asset.  Our members enjoy good food and care, a sense of belonging and through social contacts and activities, there is fun and friendship for our elderly.  This helps them to live happily and independently for as long as possible.

October 2009