We had an amazing day at Linden Farm on 12th June, for the grand opening of the new cycle track. The Simon Trust hosted the official opening of the 400m cycle track. Linden Farm is a supported living home for 10 young people with severe autism and complex needs.
The event was extremely well attended with over 80 people present, including the Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey: Michael More-Molyneux (a Patron of The Simon Trust), the Mayor of Waverley, Cllr Penny Rivers and Dame Stephanie Shirley CH. Dame Shirley was the guest of honour, and spoke movingly about the project and the Simon Trust. Dame Stephanie Shirley officially opened the track and some of the Choice team cycled with the people who live at Linden.
There was also an appearance by the wonderful band of autistic young people from Prior's Court who performed the moving “Let Me Shine” song.
There has been a long-standing project, led by The Simon Trust, to get permission in place and the cycle track up and ready. The cycle track was donated by the Simon Trust, with support from the Borrows Charitable Trust as part of their ongoing support to the development of facilities for the young people at Linden.
Sally Lawrence of the Simon Trust said: It was a happy occasion celebrating this new facility which will benefit all the young people tremendously, both physically and mentally. It provides somewhere to cycle, walk, run, go on a scooter, fly a kite or just have a nice sit in the open air, in a spacious but safe, enclosed environment.
Rebecca, Manager at Linden Farm: This was the culmination of lots of very hard work. The young people at Linden Farm now have somewhere right next door to cycle, walk, run, or simply enjoy their exercise in a safe space. It’s a fantastic addition to the Linden Farm facilities.
It was a joyful afternoon to catch up with the team and people who live at Linden. It was great to see such a welcome addition to the facilities and to meet so many parents. Thanks to The Simon Trust who have generously led the funding and implementation such an amazing facility. And thank you Sally Borrows and the Borrows Charitable Trust for your very generous funding.
