A COMMUNITY centre saved from closure is to be officially reopened at its new home by a much loved little boy.

Five-year-old Brandon Bell, who suffers from a Dravet Syndrome, a form of epilepsy, is doing the honours at Annfield Plain Community Centre, near Stanley, on Saturday.

The centre, which used to be based at Greencroft, has now moved to the former rent office and Pathways building on Front Street in Annfield Plain.

Brandon, who attends Greenland Primary School in South Moor, was chosen to cut the ribbon because of the close bond between the trustees and his family.

Last year, the centre spent £1,500 on early warning equipment to detect if has a potentially life-threatening seizure during the night after members spotted his mother’s online appeal to raise money

Kimberley Sharp, 24, who is doing a degree in childhood studies and plans to become a teacher, said: “The new centre is amazing and we are honoured to have been asked if Brandon could open it.

“They have adopted him and he is like part of their family now.

“They are so giving and they really interlink with the community. They are such an important part of people’s lives.”

The new building is being used on a 30 year lease from Durham County Council.

Mrs Sharp added: “They do so much work that they really deserve this new facility.

“It is so modern and it is going to make such a difference to what they do.

“They did so much for Brandon, we will do anything we can for the community centre.”

The open day is from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, May 14, and includes activities for children, arts and crafts, face-painting, a tombola, raffle, catering and refreshments.

There will also be a suggestions board so people can say what they would like to see at the new centre, which was facing closure in 2014.

Centre secretary Hugh Embleton said: “We are all elated because we have been limbo for so long with nowhere to operate from.

“We are very optimistic about it all and we want the public to have a look around.”

The centre, which is registered charity, is supported by Stanley Town Council, and last week Councillor Joan Nicholson, the council chairman was elected chairman of the community centre.

It is run by volunteers and a committee, has a food and clothes bank, community groups, such as slimming, art and dress-making, and there are plans to welcome a police run weekend youth club and a group from St Aidan’s Church.

Mr Embleton said: “An awful lot of work has gone into making this happen and it is all down to the committee themselves.”