Work has begun to redevelop a community centre in Willesden.

The Learie Constantine West Indian Association is working with Brent Council to build a new community centre and 25 new homes above it, with work due for completion in 18.

An official groundbreaking ceremony took place on September 3 at the site in Dudden Hill Lane.

Brent & Kilburn Times: L-R: Phil Sealy MBE. JP.; Norman Mullings MBE. JP.; Babs Stephens; Cliff Stephens; Len O'Gilvie breaking the ground at the Learie Constantine centreL-R: Phil Sealy MBE. JP.; Norman Mullings MBE. JP.; Babs Stephens; Cliff Stephens; Len O'Gilvie breaking the ground at the Learie Constantine centre (Image: DO not reproduce in any form, analogue or digital, store on movealble or otherwise media without the written permission of the c)

Norman Mullings MBE said: "We've been trying for many years to get it rebuilt as it was falling down. It's been quite a journey.

"Last week we broke the ground. Workers are on site and starting to rebuild it and, God willing, in 18 months we will be back. Until then, we will be living a nomadic lifestyle."

The former civil defence building was gifted in 1971 by the Labour-run Council to the Brent Community Relations Council (BCRC), in recognition of the work it did, led by Philemon Sealey MBE and deputy Norman Mullings.

In 1972 , with the blessing of the Constantine family, it was named in honour of the Trinidadian lawyer, politician, former High Commissioner to the UK, and cricketing superstar Sir Learie Nicholas Constantine Kt MBE.

Brent & Kilburn Times: Aerial view of the Learie Constantine Community CentreAerial view of the Learie Constantine Community Centre (Image: Gerald McLean)