On Saturday, January 6, a sponsored "danceathon" captivated the community's attention, aiming to generate funds essential for the reopening of the local community centre.
Surrey County Councillor Bernie Muir from Horton Ward exhibited her dedication by dancing for an impressive 5 hours, while Neva Novaky and James Baird took it a step further with a remarkable 10-hour dance marathon on the same day.
Addressing the gathering, Chris Grayling MP commended the organizers for orchestrating this successful event, acknowledging the significant impact they are making on the community hub. He highlighted the importance of preserving the community centre, emphasizing the positive influence of events like these that raise its prominence.
Councillor Bernie Muir expressed the vital role that community centres play as focal points for socializing, learning, and accessing essential services. She emphasized their role in nurturing community spirit, combating loneliness, and providing a positive outlet for the youth. Bernie passionately called for collective efforts to revive The Wells community centre.
Initially facing closure by the Residents Association Party run Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, the community center was saved through the determined efforts of local residents and Councilor Bernie Muir. The Epsom Wells Community Association now holds a long-term lease and is actively seeking funds for the refurbishment and full functionality of the center.
The "Dancing for the Wells" event featured a day filled with dance classes, culminating in an evening dance party. Attendees enjoyed classes ranging from ballroom Latin and Morris dancing to Jive and salsa. James, a former competitive ballroom and Latin dancer with experience dancing alongside celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, shared his expertise in ballroom and Latin with Neva.
Various dance styles were taught by reputable instructors, including Thames Valley Morris for Morris dancing, Surrey Jive for Jive, and Somos Caribe Academy for salsa.
Neva, expressing her appreciation for the two-floor community center building and its dedicated parking, conveyed her understanding of the community's fight to save it and her commitment to contribute to its reopening. She thanked the generous sponsors and event supporters who made the day possible.
The fundraising initiative was spearheaded by Neva Novaky and Councilor Bernie Muir, with a dedicated organizing team including James Baird, Stuart Carroll, Ben White, Tanya Solomon, and Richard Robinson. The collaboration extended to the Epsom Wells Community Association, led by Vanessa Merchant, and received sponsorship from Lucy Demery, Tina Mountain, Ask Italia, and Pari's Beauty Salon.
In a post to her Linked In profile Neva Novaky said:
My dance partner James Baird and I were sponsored to dance for 10 hours and Cllr Bernie Muir was sponsored to dance for 5 hours. Local Member of Parliament Chris Grayling MP also joined us on the day! Just over a week later, the balls of my feet are still sore but it was definitely worth it. Thank you to all who kept us company on the dance floor!
