Banbury housebuilder ‘shows up’ for the community

Redrow South Midlands, currently building at Bloxham Vale, on Bloxham Road, officially presented both the Sunshine Centre and Avocet Theatre Company with £500 donations.

The funds will help both organisations to support families in Banbury to access a variety of services and leisure experiences.

The Sunshine Centre provides day nursery facilities, housing and practical advice to those living in the city’s most deprived areas. During lockdown, the centre saw increased demand for its services and remained opened to continue supporting key workers and vulnerable families through difficult times.

John Bridgeman, chairman of the Sunshine Centre, added: “We were thrilled to receive Redrow’s donation, which has helped replace our outdoor playhouse, a key tool for local youngsters to develop an array of skills.

"We’ve been supporting local families for more than 20 years now by addressing their social, emotional and health care needs in the best way we can. Our doors have remained open during lockdown to assist families of key workers, so Redrow’s donation truly goes a long way.”

The second donation will help the Avocet Theatre Company make theatre more accessible for children aged eight or over. The donation will support the group to run virtual workshops, organise socially-distanced rehearsals and host shows for the local community, all at a reduced cost for all those involved.

Ben Coleman, chairman of Avocet Theatre Company, said: “The past few months have been challenging, and while we haven’t been able to meet or host shows, we never stopped creating digital content for the community. We’re grateful for Redrow’s donation, which will certainly help us to continue being one of the most accessible theatre groups in the region and hopefully inspire more young people to discover their passion for the stage.”

Suzanne Irons, sales director for Redrow Homes South Midlands, said: “Supporting local organisations is just one of the ways we show our commitment to creating thriving communities.

“Both organisations are essential to the Banbury community, whether they provide vital support and education to local children, or contribute to the town’s cultural diversity.

"We’re proud to play a part in local families’ futures by supporting the Sunshine Centre’s delivery of essential services, while making sure cultural organisations such as the Avocet Theatre Company can keep the arts and other forms of expressions easily accessible.”

Bloxham Vale is a picturesque development surrounded by open fields and charming rural villages a few minutes’ drive from Banbury.