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A centre in Gateshead is celebrating its recent revamp, thanks to the support of The Gateshead Housing Company and its partners. Located in Winlaton, the centre is very busy, and had a footfall of over 400,000 last year. The centre is a registered charity, governed by a voluntary management committee. It appealed to the housing company’s community fund so it could replace its windows, which no longer opened, were rotten, and let in little light.The fund is held by the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland.When it heard about the Centre’s state of disrepair, The Gateshead Housing Company’s fund contributed £4,150, replacing the fire doors and broken tiles around the front of the building as well as the windows.Groups using the Centre include a luncheon club for elderly people, toddler groups, youth clubs, sports clubs and adult education classes. The Centre has extensive facilities including a large hall, a sports hall, a lounge area (with a garden), a games / refreshments area, a computer suite, a photographic darkroom, and a kitchen.Natalie Thorburn, Estate Officer for Blaydon, said: “So many groups use the Winlaton Centre, meaning our investment will benefit a lot of people. The new windows let in so much light and make the place look fantastic.”Julie Bell of Mears, who provide repairs and maintenance services for The Gateshead Housing Company said: “Mears was truly delighted to play such a big part in the refurbishment of the centre.“On visiting the centre I got a true understanding of how much it means to the local community. We hope the windows make an immense difference to all who use the facility.”The Gateshead Housing Company Community Fund is supported by Gateshead Council and Mears and administered by The Community Foundation. Since 2006, the Community Fund has awarded grants totalling more than £470,000 to more than 100 groups across Gateshead.Groups in Gateshead wanting to find out more about applying for a grant should call The Community Foundation on 0191 222 0945 or email general@communityfoundation.org.uk.Information and application forms can also be downloaded from www.gatesheadhousing.co.uk/a-guide-to-our-community-fund/ and www.communityfoundation.org.uk/apply