Big Society Works awarded Social Enterprise of the Year 2011

Big Society Works Ltd was officially recognised for their work in revitalising The Georges Community Centre in Crewe on Friday 18th November as they were awarded the Social Enterprise of the Year Award by Cheshire East Council and Silk FM.

Part of the Local Heroes Award ceremony taking place at Macclesfield Football Club, the award was presented in front of an audience of over 150 dignitaries.

Anne Ibrahim, Executive Director of Big Society Works Ltd said 'Its not easy starting and sustaining any business within the current climate and we are thrilled to have achieved so much within that timeframe. We could not however have achieved this without the help and support of the Crewe West Community and Cheshire East Council and so our thanks go out to them for their contributions'.

Big Society Works Ltd entered into a unique partnership with Council and community in July 2011, agreeing to take responsibility for the former Marshfield Bank Community Centre which was closed to the public. The team agreed to sweat the asset to create a sustainable community business and in parallel build capacity within the community to operate it.

Within just 12 weeks and without grant the asset is back on its feet; generating enough income to sustain new jobs and invest in refurbishment which has included the creation of a cyber café.

The Centre now offers a range of activities for community including Bingo, luncheon club, streetdance. Judo, weightwatchers, slimming world and carer's group.

For more information visit www.thegeorges.org