COMMUNITY centres are for many people a lifeline.

The Rockwell Centre is no exception. The Thorpe Edge building is the hub of the area, delivering a wide range of services and projects for the whole community.

Managed by Thorpe Edge Community Project, the centre hosts a wide range of activities and opportunities for people to improve their lifestyle, their health and wellbeing.

For older people, the centre provides a chance to get out and meet others. Says Sandra Burgan, who manages the centre cafe. “People need to get out of isolation and interact. They miss out on daily contact. If the centre was not here some people may not see anyone from week to week.

“People play games and we have a raffle. Some people in the community rarely go out and this gives them an opportunity to socialise. We have had people who have met others they have not seen for years. Some people grew up in the same street and went to the same school and can share all their memories. People find they have a lot in common.

“My mum, who is 84, met a former neighbour she had lost touch with, which was really nice.”

Held on alternative Mondays, its ‘Amazing Grace’ group for the over fifties, is popular. “People come along to natter and meet people. Many friendships have been forged here as people put the world to rights,” says Sandra.

“It is lovely to see people laughing and having a good time.”

The Summerfield Road centre attracts people from areas including Thorpe Edge, Wrose, Thackley, Idle, Greengates, Ravenscliffe and Undercliffe.

At the heart of the centre is Rockwell Café, serving home-cooked food. “It has a great atmosphere,” says Sandra.

Along with other staff and volunteers, she rings older people on a morning to check they are attending. “It’s also a way of finding out of they are okay,” she says. “I’ve had people say ‘I can’t come, I haven’t brushed my hair, and I tell them they can do it when they get here. Even if they come for a short time, we pack a lot in.”

Transport is provided by Newlands Community Transport. “We pick them up and they pay a small charge towards their transport.”

Activities hosted by the centre that are regularly enjoyed by older people include coffee mornings, creative art sessions, gardening, bingo and Tai Chi.

“The Tai Chi is great for mobility,” says Sandra. “The movements are slow and gentle - it helps to improve balance and muscle strength.”

There is also a weekly friendship group for the over 50s. “People come and play cards and dominoes. The oldest person is 97 but I would not describe him as ‘old’ - they are all young at heart.”

People of all different abilities come, everyone interacts.

Days out are also organised, to locations including Otley, Ilkley and Skipton.

Adds Brenda: “There is so much going on for older people. Every day is amazing - it is lovely watching people having fun and smiling.”

*The Rockwell Centre, 6 Summerfield Road, Thorpe Edge, Bradford BD10 8DP, Tel: 01274 615300; also visit rockwellcentre.co.uk