Mayor drops in for a cuppa
EXCITED youngsters met the Mayor of Sunderland on a visit to a community centre.
Iain Kay popped into the Austin House Family Centre, in Shakespeare Street, Southwick, to learn more about its work and meet members.
Overseen by the Salvation Army, the 14- year- old facility runs a range of activities, from education classes to children’s play sessions.
The Millfield councillor arranged the visit after missing a performance by youngsters at a celebration to mark the Diamond Jubilee at Sunderland Minster.
The “Mock Coronation” saw them perform their own version of the 1953 ceremony, where Elizabeth II was crowned Queen.
Julie Judson, child and family worker, said: “The youngsters involved invited the mayor and mayoress to afternoon tea, which they kindly accepted.
“It was very much an informal occasion, but it gave them the opportunity to meet the children and those involved with the centre.”
The children, aged four to 11, were also presented with a special Coronation coin.
“The children were really excited about the visit,” said Ms Judson. “It was great that the mayor and mayoress were able to pop in.”
Coun Kay said he was overwhelmed by the energy and enthusiasm of the youngsters.
“This was an event to celebrate a ‘ Mock Coronation’ held at the Minster a few weeks ago that we were unable to attend due to other commitments,” he said.
“We met the young people who took part in the original event. We thanked them for what they had done to celebrate the Jubilee Year in such an unusual way.
“Austin House is the base for the Salvation Army family based work in the city.”