Former Canaries favourite helps to launch new café

The opening of the new cafe at the Norman Centre. Assist Trust user and cafe voluteer Matty Ellison serves a cuppa to former NCFC player Robert Fleck.Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

The trust is a Norwich-based charity which works with adults who have learning difficulties and is this year celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Members of the trust prepared a free buffet at the centre on Bignold Road and the celebratory cake was cut by the former Norwich City striker.

Richard Ward, chief executive of the trust, based on Colegate, said: 'They thoroughly enjoyed the day. There was a lot of autograph signing and they loved the recognition.

'The members worked hard and they had their reward. It was a party atmosphere.'

The newly-run café will serve hot and cold drinks as well as light bites for customers in the local community and those using the newly refurbished Norman Centre facilities.

Assist Trust helps adults with learning difficulties to practice everyday skills and encourages them to take part in weekly activities including football, drama and orienteering.

As part of their schedule the members get work placements which help them integrate as part of the community.

Mr Ward said: 'It helps to feel very proud and that builds on their self-esteem. Their confidence levels and practical skills improve. They can take that into all sorts of areas and other jobs. They feel very proud about the whole experience.'

The Norman Centre café is open from 10.30am to 2pm.

The trust's next event is an open day at its 'Heath Gardens' project on June 6.

From 11am, there will be a steel band, dance and music performances, finishing with a speech by Lord Mayor Brenda Arthur at 2.30pm.

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