Introducing our new coffee bar: Louie’s Place

Introducing our new coffee bar: Louie’s Place

Coffee drinkers are honouring the memory of one of Eastlea Community Centre’s much-loved community volunteers.

Louie’s Place coffee bar has been set up in the Centre, in Stockton Road, with funding from the National Lottery’s Community Fund. It is named after Louie Farn who, as a volunteer and management committee member, was a driving force behind the Centre until her death 13 years ago. She had been involved with the Centre since it opened in 1971, and was active in groups including the ladies' group, the darts group and the luncheon club.

Her husband Ronnie, a Trustee at the Centre, was among the first to try out a cuppa at the bar, and their children Sandra and Lawrence have expressed their approval.

Ronnie said: “It keeps her memory going, and the family are happy about it. She would have been over the moon about it, and it’s nice to be remembered.” 

At present, the coffee bar is only open from 11am to 1pm on Mondays, but staff and volunteers are hoping to see it grow.

“We have the facilities to take it outside when the weather is right,” said Trustee Sharon Bell. “We’re hoping it will become a focal point in our community for dog-walkers, passers-by and anyone who wants to meet up for a nice cuppa and a chat.

“We will also be using it at events such as our Christmas fair and grotto on December 2nd and 3rd.” 

The National Lottery's Community Fund awarded £10,000 to the project. It was part of £65million of funding which it shared between almost 2,000 community groups across England in the last three months.

Emma Corrigan, England Director at the National Lottery Community Fund, said: "We're proud to be able to continue our support for charities and community groups across England over the summer, delivering valuable funding to almost 2,000 projects, all thanks to National Lottery players. Combined, the £65million will make a huge difference to the lives of many."