25th Anniversary Celebration for Residents

RESIDENTS of a Middlesbrough neighbourhood popped the champagne to celebrate the birthday of a vital community group.

People living on Elder Court and Hazel Court lifted their glasses to toast the 25th anniversary of the Hazel and Elder Court Residents’ Association, which meets at The Courts Meeting House, owned by Erimus Housing.

Residents gathered with local councillors, members of Erimus Housing staff and community leaders to unveil a plaque in memory of the quarter century.

A number of other special guests turned out to the festivities, including local police officers, housing officers and street wardens.

Susie Thompson, Director of Operations for Fabrick, the parent company of Erimus Housing, said: “These residents have made this meeting room a vital community facility and we are pleased they are still so active after 25 years. We look forward to a long future for the group and the complex.”

The Courts Meeting House, situated on Elder Court, was originally launched by Middlesbrough Council and is now run by volunteers, opening five days a week.

It is used mainly for fundraising and social events and is used by around 200 residents of all ages.

Margaret Bennett, secretary of the residents’ association, said: “Thanks to all the residents who work so well together to benefit themselves and the wider community and make this a great place to live.

“The Courts Meeting House hosts a range of events and meetings and is the centre of the community in our neighbourhood and we would like to thank Erimus Housing for its support and to everyone else who has supported us over the years.”