BIADS Launch Day - Friday 9th July 2010 at Barnsley Town Hall

The official launch of BIADS was on Friday 9th July 2010 at the Town Hall, Barnsley.
The Mayor, Councillor Margaret Sheard, presided over this important milestone for us.

The event was a resounding success.

Over 100 people, including representatives from Sunderland, joined us to celebrate our official start and we had several speakers during the afternoon.

The Mayor opened the proceedings.

BIADS Chair Bill Cowin welcomed everyone to the launch and Jean Blackburn explained why BIADS had been established.

Carolyn Cooper talked about our fund raising efforts and Pam gave updates on the services we currently provide and what our hopes are for the future.

We were pleased to welcome Ricki Reckless who gave us a cheque for £660 which he raised through sponsorship, completing a triathlon.

Our circle dancing group gave a performance of two dances inviting the Mayor to join us for 'Bells of Norwich' and the BIADS singers gave a rendition of 'Que sera, sera' and 'Lean on me' which we have adopted as our anthem.

The Mayor was presented with one of our polo shirts by Allan Cooper and then she presented us with a cheque for £1,000 - a most unexpected surprise.

Refreshments followed with the chance to look at our information displays, buy tickets for trips out, look at our website but most importantly the chance for everyone to chat and meet friends old and new.

We continue to be overwhelmed by the support we are receiving from all over Barnsley and offer our grateful thanks to all concerned.

Why not join us on our new adventure - we can't do it alone!