Lieutenant Beverley Robilliard describes the Church, its activities and the support they provide in this area, in discussion with Stuart Bond.

The Salvation Army arrived in Godmanchester 112 years ago growing from their original premises in Pipers Lane until they moved to their present purpose built Church in Silver Street in 1988. The district supported by the Church centres on Godmanchester and Huntingdon, extending to some 30-35 surrounding villages and towns.

For many, the first thing that springs to mind when thinking of the Salvation Army is the help they provide to those in need, but Beverley emphasised that first and foremost the Salvation Army is a Church. The style of worship is one providing an open and welcoming environment for people of all ages. Beverley assured me that the fellowship and support network provides significant benefits and she welcomes anyone to talk to her, or visit them at Sunday Worship. The Church's Mission Statement provides a clear idea of their aims:

• To work towards providing a Christian Church which is relevant to the needs and cultures of our community.
• To provide opportunities for people of all ages to discover, choose and develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• To enable people to use their unique gifts to serve God.

Turning to the work of the Army in this area, they host lunch clubs twice per week for local elderly people which provide a three-course meal for £2, with a subsidised taxi service for transport. The number of people taking advantage of this service has doubled to 24 in the past year. Three outings are also arranged each year for people who wouldn't be able to enjoy such trips otherwise.

For 5-11 year olds the weekly OK Club provides an activity holiday at a Christian centre each year to help team building and personal development. In contrast, teenagers can assist with "soup runs" in London giving a valuable insight into the reality of life on the streets.

The Army is closely involved in Kings Ripton Court, Huntingdon which provides shelter and rehabilitation assistance to homeless 16-35 year olds referred by Social Services. This was officially opened on 16 March 2000. The service includes helping people move on into independent accommodation by ensuring they have basic household goods. If you can help by donating furniture, please call 01223 316 161, or to donate clothing call 01480 386 592.

The Summer Fair on 22 July in the Commemoration Hall, Huntingdon will help raise funds for the Church and provide an opportunity to meet and learn about their activities. The Annual Red Shield Appeal will be held from 16 September to 1 October to raise funds in time for the winter when the need for the Army's work in assisting people throughout the local area always increases. Beverley would be very grateful to hear from anyone who can spare a few hours in that period to collect among their neighbours.

Finally, perhaps that which we all remember - it is the Salvation Army who provide the Christmas carolling at the Tesco's superstore each Christmas, both for everyone's enjoyment and to raise funds for the needy.

To contact Lt Beverley Robilliard at The Salvation Army, call 01480 386 592 or visit their website at www.sagodmanchester.free-online.co.uk for further information.

© 2000 Godmanchester Community Association