David is ‘Community Space’ man!

Local man David McKay has already starting preparing for his new role in the community room at Tesco’s newest Extra store, adjacent to The Outlet which is due to open on October 16,

The purpose-built 63,500 sq ft store will have many new features which are a first for Banbridge, including the Community Room which will come equipped with computers, furniture, a microwave, toilet facilities and even baby mats – and all this is available free tolocal people, charities and associations.

David explains his role is to engage with the local community, encourage them to use the facility at Tesco Extra, Bridgewater Park, and to co-ordinate everything from fundraising to keep fit.

He said: “The Community Room at Bridgewater Tesco Extra has been well-equipped so we can now support and facilitate even more people and groups from the local area.

“The room has free-standing furniture which can be moved in and out of the space depending on the group’s requirements and the baby mats are a new addition – so we can now facilitate Mother and Toddler Groups.

“When we get up and running I am hoping to see three community groups a day using this facility for committee meetings or training sessions. We have internet access for those groups which need it, and I hope we will be able to let the room be used for such activities as yoga or Zumba in the future, or initiatives for job seekers.”

David, who has been involved in outreach work most of his life, says the new out-of-town location may encourage those living in rural areas to make the most of the free amenity.

“I would like to encourage those people perhaps living in more isolated locations to get in touch with me,” he added. “If you want to organise a fundraising coffee morning, we can support you by providing a free venue by or possibly Tesco shopping vouchers to buy the goods you need for the event.”

“As part of my role here at Tesco Extra Bridgewater Park I want to invite local primary schools to get involved in Tesco’s Farm To Fork tours.

“Children can come to the store and visit our bakery where they can make pancakes. It’s all about teaching children about our local food.

Groups wishing to use Bridgewater Tesco Extra’s Community Room can email David McKay on “mailto:[email protected]”

[email protected]