VIP visits BB1 Cafe

Published Wednesday 3 February 2016 at 15:05

A VIP guest raised a cuppa to the success of a community cafe and arts centre that is bringing diverse groups together in Blackburn with Darwen.

BB1 for Life was the brainchild of Canon Shannon Ledbetter, Community Canon for Blackburn Cathedral, and was launched in June last year after three years’ hard work behind the scenes.

Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Mohammed Khan, popped in to have a chat and a brew, and throw his support behind the successful venture.

He said: “It is great to see a community project like this, which aims to bring many different groups from across society together, doing so well.

“I very much enjoyed my visit and look forward to returning to hear about more success in the future. I was made very welcome by the Creative Support arts group and enjoyed seeing their work.”

Located in the heart of Blackburn town centre’s business improvement district (BID), across the road from King George’s Hall, the premises was a former milkshake shop before being transformed into the community facility.

BB1 For Life is staffed entirely by volunteers and features funky furniture and vintage tea cups, plates and tea pots, many donated by local businesses and individuals.

Activities hosted at the centre include a book club, arts and crafts workshops, sewing and knitting groups and furniture upcycling sessions.

Thanks to a grant from Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council to acquire additional kitchen equipment, including a bread oven, there are also plans to launch a bakery which will offer courses as well as keeping the cafe stocked with fresh loaves and rolls.

There is now a meeting room, filled with tables and chairs, which can hold up to 30 people and is also used as an exhibition space.

Canon Ledbetter said: “The primary aim of BB1 For Life is to engage creatively with diverse groups and individuals in order to break down barriers and build friendships.

“It puts the hospitality and outreach functions of the cathedral’s community work into practice and is in line with the Diocesan Vision 2026.

“This happens by creating a space where people feel safe, happy and where they can participate in a wide range of activities.”

The cafe is open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm. For information visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/bb1forlife or the Twitter profile @bb1_for_life.

This site uses cookies. Find out more about this site’s cookies.