Happy birthday to us at centre

A day centre for vulnerable and socially excluded people hosted a birthday party with a difference - for every one of its members.

The big bash at the St Wilfrid’s centre in Queens Road celebrated all its members’ birthdays at once, as well as marking their achievements over the last year.

Sheffield United striker Rob Hulse attended the bash and presented certificates of achievement. More than 30 award plaques were presented for sport and game achievements, from football and cricket to egg and spoon races. Members also enjoyed performances from the St Wilfrid’s Choir and a huge chocolate birthday cake.

Centre director Kevin Bradley said: “We have between 50 and 80 people who use the centre every day so it’s impossible for us celebrate everyone’s own birthday. So once a year we have a day when we organise a birthday bash and have a big celebration. There were nearly 100 people here, it was lots of fun.”

He said the certificates were particularly special for the members: “These are people who have never had a chance to win so it’s a big, big thing for them. It was great that Rob came along to present them. He spoke to them about this football career and they asked him questions before he signed autographs and shirts. Not only is he a great footballer, he’s a great person too. us, he’s still in the Premier League!”