Melksham Phab Club held a celebration party recently to mark the retirement of its leader, Dawn Gough, who was presented with a lifetime achievement award.
Dawn has been a long-time volunteer for Melksham Phab Club, which promotes inclusion and equal opportunities by bringing together disabled and non-disabled people through social groups and recreational activities across the country.
The event, held on 29th January at Berryfield Village Hall, saw Dawn presented with a lifetime achievement award by the new leaders, Josh and Penni, and a certificate of achievement by the co-chief executive of the national charity, Dawn Vickers, alongside her colleague Janine Williams.
This was followed by karaoke performances, dancing and a chocolate cake.
Since the 1980s, the Melksham Phab Club has been a key part of the community, offering a space for friendship, learning, and fun. At the party, Dawn expressed pride in the club’s achievements and optimism for its future.
“Dawn began attending Phab as a teenager with her sister Sandra, inspired by their parents, who were club leaders,” explained Penny Harvey-Hawkins, project development coordinator for Phab.
“Over time, she took on leadership roles, shaping the club’s activities and promoting inclusion in the community. Her daughter Kirstie has also been volunteering alongside Dawn over the years.”
Speaking to the group, Dawn Vickers said, “Dawn has truly embodied the spirit of Phab, creating spaces where everyone feels they belong.”
Melksham Phab Club now moves forward with a strong legacy of inclusion and community connection.
The club is open to all and is seeking new members and volunteers. Meetings are held at Bowerhill Village Hall on alternate Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. For more information, visit https://phab.org.uk/clubs/.
Below: Dawn Gough receiving a certificate of achievement from Janine Williams and Dawn Vickers, Phab CEO
