Colin Riley presented with award by Wendover Youth Centre
Colin became President of Wendover Youth Centre in 2007, following the sad death of his wife Diana, who founded the Youth Centre in 1986.
He was also Chairman of the Management Board, and guided the Centre though turbulent times when BCC withdrew funding from a number of Youth Centres, including Wendover. It was largely due to his perseverance and hard work that the Centre remained open and was able to build on his work to become the successful provision that it is today under the current chairmanship of Tony Playle. Although he was President and Chairman, Colin was also the first port of call as maintenance man, and was often seen at the Centre with his toolbox carrying out repairs. His contribution has been invaluable.
When Colin decided that it was time to step down from the Management Board, the Directors unanimously agreed that he should be made Honorary Life President, and he was presented with a framed certificate to mark the appointment.
The Centre also intends to refurbish the “quiet room” – a space where young people can take time out to reflect or talk through difficulties – and give it the name “The Riley Room” to reflect the huge contribution that both Diana and Colin have made to the wellbeing of young people in Wendover.