Last week marked the end of an era at Community Campus 87 as we gathered to celebrate the retirement of our long-serving CEO, Carl Ditchburn. After decades of tireless service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to tackling homelessness across Teesside, Carl is stepping down—leaving behind an incredible legacy and a lasting impact on the lives of so many.

To mark the occasion, the team threw a surprise Middlesbrough FC-themed retirement party at our Stockton offices on Thursday, bringing together colleagues, friends, and partners from across to give him the heartfelt send-off he so deserves.

Carl, a lifelong Boro fan, arrived to find the campus decked out in red and white, with all staff Boro shirts or red and white.

The highlight of the event? A live performance by a brass group made up of two campus employees and friends. They kicked off the celebrations with a rousing rendition of Pigbag—the unmistakable Boro anthem that had the whole room clapping and cheering. This was followed by a performance of Congratulations, echoing the sentiments of everyone in the room.

In a very special moment, Carl was presented with a brand new Middlesbrough FC shirt, personally signed by the players—a surprise that left him genuinely touched. We’d like to extend a huge thank you to Middlesbrough FC for helping to make this possible. Your support helped make the day truly memorable.

Carl also took a moment to reflect on his time at Community Campus 87, sharing stories, laughs, and words of thanks to the people he’s worked with over the years. His passion, vision, and belief in giving people second chances have been the driving force behind the organisation’s success, and his influence will continue to be felt long into the future.

As we turn the page to a new chapter with Simon Virth stepping into the role of CEO, we do so with enormous gratitude to Carl for everything he’s done. His leadership has helped transform lives, reshape communities, and build a stronger, more compassionate Teesside.

Carl, from all of us at Community Campus 87—thank you. You will always be a part of the Campus family. We wish you a happy, healthy, and very well-earned retirement (and plenty more great matches at the Riverside!).