Charity plans to be 'back on track' as soon as search starts for new home (From Northwich Guardian)

Joshua Tree plans to be 'back on track' as soon as search starts for new home

11:25am Wednesday 8th August 2012 in News Exclusive By Gina Bebbington

A NORTHWICH charity is searching for a new home now events at Weaver Square Shopping Centre have forced them out.

The Joshua Tree has had a base and working office in the square for a number of years but all charities that have been using the empty shops have been warned they could be charged rent if they stay.

Lynda Hill, founder of the children’s charity, said: “We could have been charged or back-dated so we just had to get out.

“All the charities have gone – it was so funny in town with everyone running around taking posters down.

“Now all the shops are bare, it’s going to be a ghost town.”

She said her biggest concern was that The Joshua Tree’s supporters would think they had folded.

“I’m concerned that people think we’ve just disappeared and gone under because we haven’t got the shop and we haven’t got the phone.

“We have to make sure people are aware we’ve not just left.

“Please be patient with us and we will try to be back on track as soon as we can.”

The Johshua Tree, which is fundraising to build a holiday home for children with life-threatening illnesses, is now appealing for a new office.

Lynda said: “So now we’re on the hunt for new premises and we’ll have to find something soon because there’s stuff everywhere.

“It’s probably a good thing because we need our own space that’s permanent – somewhere that’s ours and that everyone knows is ours.

“We are quite established now and want to be that little bit more professional.”

Anyone who can help The Joshua Tree with a new home should ring Lynda on 07989 654 246 or email lyndahill@thejoshuatree.org.uk.