A Huntingdonshire-based community hub threw open its doors last week to bring residents, businesses and community organisations together.
Held on November 21, the open day was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mary Warren, a local resident whose family benefitted from the Hub during its pilot phase.
It was attended by MP for St Neots and Mid Cambridgeshire, Ian Sollom, and a number of local guests who shared their experiences of community success.
The St Neots Citizen Hub recently re-launched with the support of Cambridge Regional College, Bedford College Group and a popular hospitality partner.
The Hub, which operates out of 58 Market Square, initially announced its closure "earlier than expected" on August 16 due to "unforeseen circumstances".
It is now a community interest company and will provide career support, skills training and community engagement opportunities for local residents and businesses.
The open day saw non-profits and local organisations explore how the Hub could serve as a space for support during the day and entertainment in the evening.
- RECOMMENDED READING: St Neots Citizen Hub set to reopen after two month closure
- RECOMMENDED READING: Organisation behind closed St Neots Citizen Hub 'hopeful' of its return
Educators, and businesses also came together to discuss how the venue could provide job matching, technical training, and life skills support to enhance economic opportunities.
Meanwhile, residents and organisations alike committed to making the Hub a focal point for collaboration, with many pledging to integrate the space into future projects.
Deputy principal at Cambridge Regional College, Kate da Costa said: "We want to help address the issue of adults who may need support to get back to work or change career.
"A big college can be intimidating, but working within the community can make all the difference.
"It’s why our students built the stage, outdoor bar, and benches, and created street art for this space—to make it truly ours."
Keep up to date with the latest news across Cambridgeshire by signing up to our Breaking News email alerts here.
The event concluded with an evening of dedication to the Hub's partners and supporters, with performances from Cambridgeshire Regional College's Cedar Band.
Co-founder Alex Hughes added: "The power of partnership and purpose is what’s truly on display here.
"The need is crystal clear: to connect the demand of local businesses with the talent and ambition of residents.
"This Hub is the bridge, and we’re incredibly grateful to the partners who are helping us cross it."
Have you got a story you want to share? Get in touch at oliver.murphy@newsquest.co.uk or newsdesk@huntspost.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here