We think our Gosforth store's community champion Michelle Castledine is a star after she helped a local community hub secure a £5,000 Asda Foundation grant – and, as you can see, so do a local youth theatre group who rehearse and perform there!
The donation meant St Aidan's Community Centre could buy new lighting and sound facilities which will benefit the many groups who rely on the centre – including Music Art Dance Drama group, shown above rehearsing for their recent version of Romeo and Juliet.
Leigh Geddes, who's chairperson at the centre, said: "There's a lot going on – it's a real community hub.
"Asda have just been fantastic, so supportive of the community, and Michelle is wonderful. I've known her for years – she's always there to help us in some way.
"The Music Art Drama Dance group put on a performance of Romeo and Julie – their light-hearted version of Romeo and Juliet – which was enjoyed by lots of people in the community.
"Lots of other groups have been taking advantage of these new facilities too.
Michelle said: "We surprised the group with the donation last Christmas, and it was great to see how the money has been put to such good use. The new facilities look amazing.
"St Aidan's is a fabulous community centre in the heart of the community and it's always a pleasure to go along and volunteer and help them out in any way."
