''Launching of Community 360 Hub at Long Wyre Street Colchester''

Dear all,

I must thank acting Area Rep Gurkha Home, Mrs Asha Gurung, and her colleagues who arrived at Long Wyre Street, a few shops away from Argos; by 09:20 hours, preparation began in earnest, and we were ready for the launch of Community Hub at 10:00 hours. The Nepali delegation was as follows:

Mrs Asha Gurung, acting Area Rep Gurkha Home

Mr Ram Bahadur Gurung

Mr Karna Bahadur Rana

Mr Sobit Gurung

Mrs Mishra Gurung

Mr Cham Bahadur Pun

Mrs Tek Maya Pun

Mrs Tak Maya Pun

Mrs Yal Kumari Pun

Mrs Sun Kumari Gurung

Mrs Nanda Kumari Sherchan

Mrs Asha Thakali

Mrs Masana Limbu

Chairman

From 10:00 hours onward, the visitors began coming in. They were endeavouring to learn about our Halo, Juwa, shyakhu, raksi making, spinning wheel, large cooking pots, gagris, nanglo, to name a few. They listened with curiosity, including Edlyn Rai, the daughter of Major Sharad Rai. Even an African descendant was impressed with our raksi making technic and said his parents do the same to make their raksi in their native land. So we understood everyone did the same what we are doing now, and we are slightly behind with technology and the others. I like to thank our ladies and gents for being the models for showing various items to the general public.

I fed the Nepali delegation buying vegetarian food for everyone, and I believe they enjoyed the food.

Finally, the launching ceremony took place at 13:15 hours when the CEO made a speech about Community 360. The work it has been doing for the community and a few other people praised the Community 360's work; the final cutting of the ribbon by the Mayor of Colchester at around 13:40 hours. There were drinks and nibbles organised by the Community 360. Everyone seems to have enjoyed the launching of the Community 360 hub.

Finally, I like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Asha Gurung, the acting Area Rep Gurkha Home, for rallying around and bringing sufficient people to witness the launching of the Community 360 hub. Without her efforts, I don't think it would be possible.

Well done, everyone, for your community spirit.

Udai B Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

CNS