IT’S the end of an era for Avonway as one of its stalwart supporters steps down after 30 years.

Sue Witt has been involved with the Avonway Community Centre in Fordingbridge in one capacity or another – as user, playgroup leader, officer, trustee, staff member – for more than three decades, and says she has loved every minute of it.

Even though she has now retired she is still willing to help out with social fundraising for the centre.

Mrs Witt’s family originally moved to Fordingbridge in 1957. Her father was a local police officer, universally known as Captain Kidd.

Seven years later she married Charles Witt, from an old established Fordingbridge family, and together they brought up two daughters in the town.

In 1974 she joined the staff of the Penguins Playgroup as it moved to Avonway, and served as its leader for 23 years, so there are many Fordingbridge residents who will remember her as their first teacher, or perhaps recall the wonderful floats the playgroup staff created for the town’s carnival and St George’s Day parades.

A spokesman said: “Throughout the years Sue has been a constant presence in a changing Avonway scene, serving under four managers and three chairmen.

“She knew most of the regular users by name and always had a cheery word for them, and for everybody else who came through our doors.

“She knew how to fix most things at Avonway, or if she|didn't, she knew a man who did, and more often than not that man was helpful husband Charles.

“Sue did not just take bookings, she advised and guided in order to ensure our users achieved what they wanted, whether it was learning a new activity or the perfect birthday party. She is a|treasure, and will be a very hard act to follow.”

Avonway alumni Mike Shand said: “Sue is a marvel and has contributed so much to Avonway and its associates over the years.”