THE Mayor of Farnham, John Ward, and Surrey county councillor Pat Frost have officially opened the new electric awning for the patio at The Woodlarks Centre, located on the outskirts of Farnham.

Surrey County Council awarded The Woodlarks Centre a grant which was used to purchase and install the awning.

The centre’s mission is to provide the highest quality of care and support for people with a range of disabilities, in a family environment with stimulating activities for the residents to enjoy.

The new awning, which increases the opportunities to sit outside, has been highly praised by those living at the centre.

Long-term resident Joanna Stringer said: “With the awning in place we have increased our living space by providing an additional area in which residents, staff, family and friends can sit.

“It is no secret that the British weather is unpredictable, and rather than putting those barbecues and garden parties on hold, we can now party beneath the awning whatever the weather.”

Mr Ward added: “It is a beautiful awning, I hope the residents will enjoy its advantages, the protection from damaging UV rays in the summer and the rains.”

He then went on a tour of The Woodlarks Centre, along with the mayoress and Carys Walker a representative from Surrey County Council.

They were amazed by the services offered, from the art in the activity centre to the refurbished rooms, with each room having an en-suite wet room.

Fundraising manager Ben Madombwe on behalf of the residents, trustees and staff of The Woodlarks Centre gave sincere thanks to Surrey County Council for awarding Woodlarks the grant and for its continued support.