February 24 marks the official opening of Teddington's brand new Elleray Centre.

As well as becoming the home of Elleray Community Association's social club for older people, it will be the venue for a host of activities, classes and events that will appeal right across the local community.

The first of these events is a series of talks and creative workshops covering a variety of subjects.

These are all free, but you should reserve your seats for all these sessions.

You can find more details of the talks and reserve your place at https://elleraycentre.eventbrite.com/

Beginners' Photography by Robert Fisher RTPS of Richmond & Twickenham Photographic Society

Wednesday, February 25, 5:30 - 6:30 pm and repeated at 7.30 – 8.30 pm

Learn how to use your camera or phone more confidently and take standout photos.

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Robert will explain the difference between a snap and an image and will set you up to capture stunning images.

Reserve your place at 5.30pm here https://elleraycreative-photography1.eventbrite.co.uk

Reserve your place at 7.30pm here https://elleraycreative-photography2.eventbrite.co.uk

Hidden Secrets of Bushy Park by Rebecca Harvey, Friends of Bushy Park

Come and discover the fascinating history and wildlife of Bushy Park. You'll hear secrets and fascinating stories about its history, its populations of rare insects, ancient trees and rare acid grassland so you can enjoy the park with fresh eyes.

Thursday, February 26^th, 7:15 - 8:15 pm

Reserve your place here https://elleraytalk-bushypark.eventbrite.co.uk

Woodworking Principles by Ben Brooks

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Thursday, February 26^th, 5.00 - 6:30 pm

Learn about Woodworking Principles, veneer application, and general problem solving. The talk will conclude with a Q&A session where you can get the answers to all kinds of knotty problems!

Ben is a graduate of the world-renowned Parnham College with 30 years of experience as a designer and maker of fine furniture. Through a light-hearted exploration of his own exciting portfolio of work and 'behind the scenes' photographs, Ben will introduce woodworking principles to inspire.

This is a rare opportunity to see and discuss unusual commissions and to learn about the creative and technical processes behind them.

Ben will also speak briefly about his involvement with the Sheddington charity and the opportunities open to anyone wishing to 'get started' or continue their creative journey.

Reserve your place here https://elleraycreative-woodworking.eventbrite.co.uk

Floral Motif Mixed Media Workshop with the Elleray Art & Craft Club

Friday, February 27^th, 3 pm - 5:30 pm

Immerse yourself in a friendly setting while you explore watercolour, pencil drawing, or pasta press printing in a relaxed, social atmosphere before taking home your finished card or artwork. This is an untutored workshop but feel free to share your ideas with Juliet Janssens and Kinga Ocetkiewicz, local artists who can assist you with composition and idea development.

Let's keep the creativity flowing!

Reserve your place here https://elleraycreative-art-craft.eventbrite.co.uk

Wycinanki Polish Paper Cut-Out Craft with Ania Ruszkowski

Saturday, February 28^th,1:30 - 2:30 pm

Join this Polish folk art paper-craft workshop and discover the symbolism of Wycinanki with artist Ania Ruszkowski. These intricate paper cut-outs have been a popular folk craft in Poland since the late 19th century.

You will create your own paper cutting to take home, guided through the process by Ania Ruszkowski, a practising artist No prior experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to try your hand at something new!

Reserve your place here ttps://elleraycreative-papercraft.eventbrite.co.uk

Understand Your Communication Style by Ania Ruszkowski

Saturday, February 28^th, 2:45 - 4:30 pm

An engaging workshop exploring communication styles and their impact on how we connect, collaborate, and work together.

It will help you identify your own communication style, understand others and develop your own approach to improve communication, reduce misunderstandings and build stronger working relationships.

Reserve your place here https://elleraytalk-communication-style.eventbrite.co.uk