We support Love Thornbury, local charities, schools, community groups, musicians, entertainers and independent High Street businesses. We provide meeting and fundraising space, promote their activities and donate prizes, refreshments and staff time free of charge. The following groups use our function room etc free of charge: fishing group Monday. Cycling Group Thursday; the Drama Group Tuesday evening, as well as Welcome Walkers monthly Age Concern Walkers have their coffee and cake on Monday. Spanish group Thursday Morning, to name but a few

The Swan hosts weekly knit-and-crochet groups, Meet-Up Mondays for people seeking friendship and regular charity events. We also support local performers by providing paid opportunities and publicity.

Through Love Thornbury, we bring businesses, volunteers and community organisations together to deliver free children’s activities, seasonal celebrations and High Street events. We also work with Thornbury Lodge, Thornbury in Bloom and local welfare organisations to raise funds and reach people who may need additional support.

Gordy was an elderly regular with no family to support him. When he lost his accommodation, I found him a new flat, furnished it, helped secure his benefits and made sure he was safe.

As his health declined, I became his power of attorney and next of kin. I supported him through hospital and care-home stays, took him on outings and helped put his affairs in order. I was also the person who had to tell him he was terminally ill.

During his final 36 hours, I stayed beside him in the care home so he would not die alone. This was especially difficult because I had only recently experienced the same thing with both of my parents, but I could not leave Gordy without someone beside him.

After he died last November, I arranged the dignified send-off he deserved. The Swan community had become his family, and I still visit his grave regularly because my commitment to him did not end when he passed away.