CITIZENS Advice East Hampshire marked 80 years of providing free, independent advice nationally by hosting a lunchtime party for volunteers, trustees and supporters.

Citizens Advice was founded on September 4, 1939 – the day after Second World War was declared. Since then, the service has become a trusted household name.

Last year it helped 2.7 million people across England and Wales in person, by phone, email or online web chat.

Citizens Advice locally opened its doors first in Alton during the war and later in Petersfield and Bordon.

Supported by donations for the purpose, the organisation invited over 70 of its volunteers and supporters to the lunchtime birthday party held at Rotherfield Park in East Tisted.

Among the guests was Kate Shipley, 102, who herself volunteered for more than 20 years. Her father was one of the original local church ministers who highlighted the need for a Citizens Advice in Alton.

East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds spoke at the event about the importance of the service locally and thanked those who contributed to it through the years.

Helen Drake, chief executive of Citizens Advice East Hampshire, said: “Citizens Advice East Hampshire is celebrating 80 years of advice with this event in a historic venue for East Hampshire volunteers and supporters.

“Our advice has changed many lives over 80 years and continues to do so because we constantly adapt to the challenges people face, from broadband bills to Universal Credit.

“Whatever the problem, our amazing staff and volunteers do all they can to help people find their way forward. We are here for everyone and we will continue to help make things better.”