SOUTHPORT & DISTRICT
CENTRE FOR THE DEAF
Registered Charity N: 222928

85 YEARS & STILL GOING STRONG!

The present building was dedicated and opened on 21 November 1925. The original foundation date of the Deaf and Dumb Institute, as it was called then, is not exactly known, but occurred sometime about 1888. The Centre was opened by the Mayor of Southport, Councillor Hadfield, in the presence of the Mayoress, Canon Blakeney, Rev. W.E.H. Morris, Rev. E.W. Mowll, Mr J.M. Dewhurst, Councillor G.W. Wilkinson, Mr Norman Jones and a number of other guests.

The celebratory event to mark the Centre's 85th birthday took place in the presence of the Mayor of Sefton, Councillor Maureen Fearn, and her Consort, Mr Frank Winrow. Nearly 60 people, both past and present, attended this special occasion. A delicious buffet was laid on for all to enjoy after the formal proceedings took place.

The Chairman of the Management Committee, Mr Peter Mowat, showed the Mayor around the Centre, including the upstairs Chapel where services are held once a month on Tuesday mornings. Flowers were presented to the Mayor from Mr Tony Wright, the Secretary.

In his speech, Mr Mowat said the Committee have strived to keep the Centre running smoothly and continue to make improvements to benefit all who use the building. Recent changes include major work following a water burst at the start of the year and the installation of a new fire alarm system. Plans are underway to refit the kitchen. The Mayor responded by saying what a lovely building it was and how beautiful the Chapel is. She revealed she had visited the Centre some 40 years previously.

The Tuesday and Saturday Morning Clubs continue to run various activities and outings organised by their own separate Committees. Recently links with other groups associated with the deaf have been forged; these include Merseyside Society for Deaf People offering a drop-in housing support service, and Sign-Right providing accredited British Sign Language courses as well as a social club. It is hoped that with these, and other possible groups, the Centre will expand and continue its good work for many years to come.
Posted: 22 November 2010