Llay Park Resource Centre marks two decades, serving hundreds of thousands with activities, courses, and vital services.
Chris Armstrong opened the center twenty years ago. He was a Wrexham AFC footballer. The center housed local groups and the library.
Many groups met there over time. Ma’s Bar and the Boys and Girls Brigade used it. Llay Beavers, Cubs, and parent groups met up too. An after-school club, U3A, and street dancers were all there.
Police and Citizens Advice held drop-in sessions. Llay housing also offered assistance there regularly.
The center hosted adult learning courses. People improved computer skills and tried new crafts. They learned watercolor painting and card making. Woodcarving and sugarcraft were also taught. The center has enrolled 3,456 learners overall.
Sarah Smallwood-Smith works at the center. She started in 2004 and loves her job. She handles administration and finds courses. Two other staff, Wendy and Tina, also started there in 2005.
The resource center held many fundraising events. They supported local and national charities. The team raised over £12,354 for good causes.
Five local businesses operate there. 1st Enable and Central Park Café are based there. Llay Barber’s Shop and Wrexham Chiropody use the space. Your Space is also located in the building.
The library used to be in a hut. It moved to the center in 2005. Since the move, 336,510 library visitors came. The library provides free community groups, including adult and kids’ craft groups, a Lego club, and a reminiscence group.
A book club and parchment craft are available. Mixed media art and story-time also take place.