It is probably now the least propitious time for a generation to raise £50 milllion for a building project, let alone for a community centre. That the JCC has raised all but £7 million of the money is, in itself, an astonishing achievement

But that pales into insignificance behind the purpose of the fundraising - a magnificent, much-needed, wholly beneficial and wonderfully imaginative centre for the community. The building is no longer just an idea. In 2013 it will be a reality. The JC wishes a hearty mazeltov to everyone involved; and especially to Dame Vivien Duffield, a force of nature without whose commitment none of this would have happened.