UNA Gray has bowed-out as centre manager at the Clarke Foley in Ilkley.

At a supper for volunteers and staff on Friday Una was warmly thanked for her service.

Stuart Hyde QPM the Chair of the Directors Board said: “Una has given exceptional service to Clark Foley and we look forward to her contribution as a volunteer. She has worked hard to help secure a sound financial footing and to help us reach out to a wider audience. We also have a change of Chair for Clark Foley Board and I would like to record all our deep appreciation for Jean McCrickards’s commitment and calm leadership to help Clarke Foley develop.”

The Clarke Foley opened in Ilkley in January 1981 and since then has helped alleviate loneliness amongst the elderly by providing services such as a twice weekly lunch club, keep fit and art classes, country dancing and even an orchestra. It is also one of the venues for the U3A in the town. In recent years Clarke Foley has begun to diversify in order to meet the developing needs of the local community. In addition to welcoming senior citizens it provides meeting spaces for local organisations, hosts a regular antiques fair and operates a popular café.

Anne Mary Inglehearn, who worked previously at Leeds College of Building, says she is looking forward to joining the Clarke Foley family.