Our volunteers say ...:   Related material:  
Our people are our stars. It is down to their dedication and passion that has enabled the Centre to grow into a successful multi-purpose entertainment centre for all! Hear what they have to say about their involvement in the Centre ...


Coral & Penny:

"Two ‘Golden Oldies’, members of Festival Drayton Town Centre committee since 1984 and still marvelling at the wonderful transformation of an old chapel into the superb establishment of which Market Drayton should be so proud.

Known throughout the county and further a field – providing a smooth running venue for all kinds of activities, covering all ages and interests, including films and live entertainment and a superb kitchen, which is open daily for food and drink and which also caters for special occasions.

Twenty-four years of planning, facing problems, seeking support etc. to make a dream come true – yet still expanding with even more ideas for the future. We have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Centre’s Management Committee"


Alison (admin):

"I am proud to be part of this organisation & by doing so I feel that I am putting something back into the community which has been my home for the past 24 years. Those of you that know me, probably realise that I don’t originate from Drayton as I’ve have a broad northern accent, nevertheless I still class Drayton as my home now!

I have been involved with the centre for the past 4 years, and I have made many new friends, through fellow volunteers & customers.

I regularly operate the box office on film nights, and consequently many people seem to think that I live here! In addition to this, I carry out work behind the scenes as I am involved with the management of the centre. These activities include marketing, general administration and book-keeping amongst many.

I hope that more volunteers, of all ages, get involved with this wonderful centre, and that they get as much out of it, as I have. The Centre continues to grow from strength to strength and with the support of the community that own it I know we can reach new heights. Why not join the team, it’s great!"


Anne (Friday chef):

"Hi ... my name is Anne, I was born in Market Drayton and have lived here most of my life. I am a widow with two married children and three grandchildren. For most of my working life I was employed by the Civil Service. Since retiring in 2005 I have been working as a volunteer in the Coffee Shop at the Festival Centre. Having worked outside Market Drayton for many years I now find I am meeting old friends and even people I have not seen since my school days. I find working in the Coffee Shop once or twice a week very rewarding and satisfying especially as the work is so very different to my previous employment. Since starting at the centre I have made many new friends and I enjoy working within such a happy and friendly team of people. As the Centre is owned by the people of Market Drayton I feel that by working a few hours a week I am giving something back to the community."


Box Office life by Beryl:

"Question: What is the best and most enjoyable way to get to know the people in Market Drayton?
Answer: Work on the Reception desk in Festival Drayton Centre.

Several years ago I decided to take early retirement from my profession in education. Having worked full-time for thirty-six years, without a break, it was something of a leap into the unknown. I had no plans for what to do with my new found freedom!
By chance I called into FDC and heard of the opportunities for voluntary work and thus a whole new world opened up for me.

Now I work in the Box Office, help with a variety of meetings and functions and co-ordinate training procedures for new volunteers. Past work experiences have also been of value when it has been possible to assist the Centre’s management team whenever it is considered appropriate. I feel I am able to utilise my skills in a way that benefits the community and brings me into contact with like-minded people.

Before joining the FDC team, I knew very few people in the town, despite having lived here since 1977! Now I allow extra time whenever I go to such as the market etc as there is always someone you know to say hello to.

Question: How can you utilise your skills in a relaxed environment and enjoy the ‘feel good factor?
Answer: Become a Festival Drayton Centre volunteer!"


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