Changing of the Guard - Farewell Irene
Changing of the guard, as Irene steps down and Adam takes over.
Eastlea Community Centre has said a fond farewell to its popular, long serving manager.
Irene Waller joined the staff at the centre 13 years ago, after spending 20 years as a volunteer there. In that time, her welcoming manner and desire to help others made her a familiar face in the community. Her work also won her the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship award from the Rotary Club – the highest honour it can bestow, recognising outstanding contributions to the community.
Friends, colleagues and centre users gathered to wish her well in her retirement.
“I have met a lot of wonderful people and made a lot of life-long friends,” said Irene.
“We’ve faced many challenges along the way, but with everybody working together, we’ve managed to overcome the obstacles.”
Irene leaves a legacy which the centre is determined to maintain and build on in the future.
She will be succeeded by Adam Chapman, who takes on the role of business development manager at the centre.
Adam has been working as assistant manager at an O2 shop in Middlesbrough, but said he was keen to do something that would help the community, and know that he and the centre were making a difference to people.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge, and using my sales background to advertise for more people to use the facilities,” he said.
“I want to make sure people know about us, and see if there are local groups starting up so we can be proactive in attracting them.”


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