Leigh Conley, new manager of Axminster Guildhall, launches her exclusive monthly column for Seaton Nub News

I am really looking forward to having the opportunity to write each month, about all the exciting things that will be happening here at the Guildhall.

From The New Jersey Boys to Queen Forever, from the new Monthly Comedy Club to Omid Djalili, there is bound to be something here for everyone and we really have more exciting things planned for 2022 and beyond.

However, for this first Guildhall column, I thought it would be good to remind everyone that, as well as the exciting acts coming, we also have lots of exciting activities and classes that can really help with mindfulness and wellbeing, and what's better they are all here each week!

Monday is Zumba (10:00-11:00), Tuesday is Yoga (18:00-19:15), Wednesday is Zumba (10:00–11:00), Pilates (11:00-12:00), Majorettes (17:30-19:30) and Leroc Dance (20:00-22:00) and Friday is Fitsteps (10:00-11:00). We are also very excited to welcome a new second Yoga class on Thursday's from February (18:00-19:30).

All of these sessions are run by fantastic coaches who are all working hard to ensure that classes go ahead, whilst members are being kept as safe as possible, in line with current COVID-19 regulations.

One of these classes, and our only actual dance class, is Russell's Leroc class. For those not in the know, Leroc is an easy to learn dance that's great fun and incredibly social.

Russell has run these classes for many years now, and really knows what he is doing, so if you fancy joining in pop in on a Wednesday night (please bring a COVID pass or equivalent) or give Russell a call on 07967 282585.

You don't even need to have experience, equipment or even a dance partner – what's not to like?

As well as our regular health and wellbeing classes, the Guildhall is home to monthly visits from the Repair Café. If you find that your once-loved items are now in need of a bit of TLC, then pop along to the Repair Café, where the members there have the skill to repair practically anything.

The Repair Café is free and open to anyone and everyone, refreshments are also available for free (but donations are very much appreciated). They even welcome budding repairers too! The next Repair Café is December 4th 10:00-13:00.

Finally, you may know that at the Guildhall, Axminster Christmas Together give up their Christmas Day each year to help feed those in need, but did you also know that each week Nourish are here too?

Nourish produce over 50 free meals a week that are distributed to EDDC Community Development, Pippins, Socially Prescribed Group and emergency food support. Twice a month they set up the Guildhall for anyone to come in for something to eat and, if needed a good chat.

They work hard each week to try to break down barriers and embarrassment that those in food poverty face. The lunches are very well received and attended by all different age groups, with local people finding them a safe and familiar place to come, meet and enjoy some home style cooking.

For the team at Nourish the lunches are not just about food but breaking down isolation in the community and bringing people together.

You can keep up-to-date with all the latest news from the Guildhall at our website www.axminster-guildhall.co.uk – where you can also join our mailing list and get information about new shows and events, sent direct to your mailbox.