A learning disability project run by East Kent Mencap has opened a new hub.

Getting On with Learning Disabilities (GOLD) is a lottery funded project run by the local charity.

It supports people with a learning disability living in Thanet to achieve their goals, so they can live the life they want.

Thanks to a Big Lottery Fund, the charity were able to open the new hub at 215 Northdown Road, Margate, on Wednesday, Janaury 17 and welcomed 80 guests throughout the day.

The event highlighted what GOLD does as well as celebrating everything the project has achieved in its first two years.

To kickstart the event, Big Lottery funding manager for Kent, East & West Sussex, Jane Haddock, cut the ribbon to officially open the doors.

She said: “One of the things I love about working for Big Lottery Fund is that we get to see amazing projects like this come to fruition, after much hard work and dedication from staff, volunteers and the community itself.

“While Big Lottery provides funding, it’s the people here than helped to turn a great idea into reality and bring people together to help others fulfil their potential.”

Local artist Stacey Chapman, of Art Sea Craft, held an engaging workshop during the day wit the aim of creating a dynamic window display for the new premises.

On the day, she asked the question “What does a learning disability look like to you?” and guests used colourful materials and made dynamic shapes to create visual representation of themselves for the display.

Various members of GOLD went along to ensure the day was a success with Tanya Post and Rosie Veasey signing in guests on arrival, welcoming them with chocolates.

Neil Kerbey and David Tate informed guests of the EasyRead information, along with regular social groups people could attend to meet new people and useful websites to know.

Guests heard speeches from GOLD members Ben Constable and Scot Cheater on how GOLD has helped them.

Ben said: “I have made a lot of friends at GOLD.

“There are activities to do, so I am not stuck at home doing nothing. I am less lonely now.”

Videos of activities and highlights of the project so far were shown on a projector along with photos of various outings and activities.

GOLD volunteer Brian Searle was on hand for the duration of the event to ensure people were enjoying themselves and to give out refreshments.

Brian is retired and has been volunteering for the weekly social club for the last year and a half.

The new office is open for visitors on Wednesdays from 10am until 2pm. If you think you could help the GOLD project, pop in during that time or call 0845-004-1876 to book a private appointment.