An inspirational volunteer has been sent off in style by the community he’s been serving for over three decades.
Steve Heathcote is bidding a fond farewell to Armitage Youth Centre near Lichfield after 36 years as a youth worker.
Initially setting up a youth football team one night a week back in 1976, Steve quickly became an integral member of staff. Spearheading a range of different activities including residential weekends, sports, art and craft and environmental activities, his hard work has given young people in the area access to opportunities they might not otherwise have had.
Steve, 63, said: “It was very emotional for me to say goodbye to the youth centre as it’s been a huge part of my life.
“I started volunteering at 16 as a cub instructor with the Scouts and then started to get involved with more and more activities as the years went on. It’s been a wonderful way to spend my time.”
At his peak, Steve gave four nights a week to youth centre activities, as well as dedicating many weekends,
County Councillor Frank Lewis said: “Steve has an incredible drive to provide the absolute best for young people and our whole community will miss him now he is retiring.
“He leaves a fantastic legacy of volunteering.”
Armitage Youth Centre will be holding an open evening tonight (November 15) at 7pm to recruit new volunteers.
