The Holly Lodge Centre Celebrates 30 Years!

On a sunny Saturday afternoon in September, over 100 invitees gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Holly Lodge Centre. Multiple generations of volunteers, staff, patrons and supporters came together to reconnect and share stories of the past and present, demonstrating the collective passion, creativity and commitment that has built the Centre to what is it today. 

Welcomed by blue skies, classic MG cars and the musical stylings of Trio Manouche, a gypsy swing ensemble, guests gathered in the picnic garden to reflect on and celebrate the success of the Centre over the past 30 years. Centre Managers, Alex Sharp and Jaime Walsh, kicked off the afternoon by welcoming guests to the Centre and paying tribute to the dedication of volunteers, who have sustained and pushed the Centre forward since the very beginning. Roger Hillyer spoke on behalf of the Trustees, sharing a brief history of the Centre and the strong relationship it holds with The Royal Parks. Nature trail tours, visits to the Victorian Classroom and Victorian Pharmacy, a photo montage and a curated selection of archival materials were all on offer to keep guests entertained and reminiscing on how the Centre has evolved over the years.  

After a picnic lunch and drinks, founding members of the Centre, Mike Fitt OBE, Dr. Pat Ealey and Malcolm Childs, shared stories and memories from the creation of the Centre and its early years, likening The Holly Lodge Centre to a family that has grown throughout the years. 

We were delighted to have some of our esteemed patrons taking part in the celebrations – Sir David Attenborough, Jacki Piper, Adrian Mills and Robert Holmes. The event was enjoyed by all, with many kind words of congratulations shared before and afterwards, including this note from Alex Mulholland, who donated the Victorian Pharmacy: 

30 Years – Congratulations on this Anniversary. Since its inception in 1994, the Charity has developed brilliantly, in offering such a varied range of interests to all the visitors, especially the youngsters with special needs. Like the ACORN, may all its branches become a vintage OAK in this very special Royal Park. 

It was wonderful to see and hear from supporters and friends from both the Centre’s past and present. Here’s to the next 30 years!