Community chips in to save vital Stretford cafe and hub

Local people stepped in to keep a Stretford cafe and community hub open, and users say the space will remain available. Regulars described it as a warm place for activities, social connection and practical needs such as baby changing and toilets.

The Stretford cafe and community hub has been saved after local people chipped in to keep it running. Users and organisers described the venue as a warm space that hosts classes and groups and also offers practical facilities. Sarah Jones, who has run pilates there for four years, said it brings people together for movement and then time in the tea room, combining physical activity with social connection. Parents, older attendees and volunteers said the hub serves a wide range of needs for the neighbourhood. Voices from the community: - Sarah Jones said the venue is a fantastic place for the community to gather and that pilates plus time in the tea room supports both physical activity and social connection. - Angela Ralph, 79, said the pilates class is the highlight of her week and noted the noticeboard lists groups including bowls, gardening, painting and sessions for children. - A new mother said she visits with her seven-week-old and appreciates getting out of the house, while her partner said there is nowhere quite like the hub nearby and highlighted shelter, toilets and baby change facilities. - Supporters said the space provides warmth for many people and that it would have been poorly timed to introduce certain measures. Summary: Community contributions have ensured the Stretford cafe and hub will remain open and available to local users. Residents describe the venue as important for exercise, social connection and practical family needs. Longer-term plans for the site were undetermined at this time.