Bexley Libraries has partnered with The Movie Shack to ensure its well-loved programme of gaming and creative activities can continue after the Bexleyheath shop closes on 7 August, giving residents a place to keep enjoying the games, creativity and friendships that have become synonymous with the sessions.

From later this month, residents will be able to take part in favourites including Pokémon and Magic The Gathering card game sessions, alongside arts and crafts activities. Run separately from The Movie Shack's retail business, the programme has grown into a welcoming and inclusive space for people of all ages, particularly neurodiverse young people and adults and those experiencing mental health challenges.

The sessions will continue to be led by The Movie Shack's experienced staff and volunteers, who will welcome both familiar faces and anyone interested in joining for the first time.

As part of the partnership, The Movie Shack will also introduce new free activities during future school holidays and at other times throughout the year, helping even more residents discover the programme.

Councillor Brian Bishop, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said:

We are delighted to be working with The Movie Shack to ensure these much-loved community activities can continue while the business is between premises. For many residents, these sessions are about much more than gaming or crafts. They have become a place to meet people with shared interests, build confidence and feel part of a welcoming community.

Our libraries are places where people can connect, learn and take part in a wide range of activities, so this partnership is a great fit with our strategy for libraries. We are looking forward to welcoming both familiar and new faces to Bexley Central Library."

Danny and Lorraine from The Movie Shack said:

While it's sad to be saying goodbye to our shop, we are thrilled that this isn't the end of the activities our community has come to love. Seeing friendships grow around the gaming tables and creative sessions has always been one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.

We are excited to be working with Bexley Libraries to continue building that community and to welcome both familiar faces and new ones when the sessions begin again."

Further details, including confirmed start dates and the full programme of activities, will be shared soon on the Bexley Libraries website and social media channels, as well as The Movie Shack's social media channels.