It was great to drop by one of our Walsall Places of Welcome today, Stan Ball Centre on Abbott’s Street in Bloxwich. They hold their coffee morning in their bright and welcoming bistro area and as I looked out into the sunshine reflecting off the canal running behind the centre, it is clear to see why.
I had not been into the bistro before so I was keen to stop by and catch up with some of their regular visitors and say hello to some new people who had come for the first time. Free refreshments were on offer as always, and there was a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
It was great to see the door wide open onto their patio, with a view of the canal under blue sky, definitely signalling brighter days ahead. Regular community member Linda told me that they often see ducks and swans outside and even a heron, and Ann who hosts the Place of Welcome said that in the summer the canal is covered with beautiful lily pads.
Karen, Project Officer for the centre, then came in to show me some of the knitted creations that had been made in support of Innocent’s Big Knit. They have knitted many bottle top bobble hats which will be sold on Innocent Smoothie drinks, with money from each sale going to support Age UK. Karen said that their community members were really enjoying knitting them – and there were some lovely ones, including a lion, rabbit and one with feather trim!
Stan Ball Centre, Abbotts Street, Bloxwich, Walsall, WS3 3AZ is open Monday to Friday between 10:30 and 12:30 – a great place to meet people and even take in a breath of fresh air canal side!