DIVERSE Abilities welcomed AFC Bournemouth manager, Eddie Howe, for a tour of the recently refurbished activity and therapy centre for adults with disabilities across the county, The Beehive.

Eddie was joined by Jimmy Glass, the former goalkeeper and now player liaison manager for AFCB, and they both received a tour of the new facilities, which includes a therapy wing with physio rooms and a suite of fully accessible personal care rooms, nursing rooms, a large training kitchen, and improved communal spaces.

He also made the time to meet all the students and staff at the centre, have a chat with them about football, be in photographs and sign autographs.

Jeff, Simon and Andrew, adults who attend the centre regularly, are all lifelong AFC Bournemouth fans.

Jeff and Simon were at The Beehive during the visit and were overjoyed to have a chat with Eddie and have their photo take with him.

Andrew was unable to be at the centre during the visit, but Eddie kindly recorded a video message for him, which he was very happy with.

Mark Powell, CEO at Diverse Abilities, said: “We were absolutely delighted that Eddie took the time out of his busy schedule to visit The Beehive.

“He won over the adults we support and the smiles on their faces during the visit speaks a thousand words.

“A very big thank you goes to Eddie and we hope to welcome him back in the future,” Mr Powell said.

Eddie Howe said of his visit: “The Beehive is an incredible place and I was thrilled to be able to visit a local facility that makes such a huge difference.

“It was great to meet so many inspiring people and to see how The Beehive contributes to their lives.”

For further information regarding Diverse Abilities and The Beehive please visit www.diverseabilities.org.uk