HASLEWEY Centre started 2019 on a high, with the news it had succeeded in getting a Big Lottery Fund grant for a series of expert-led free sessions on coping with cancer.

Magda Psonka, Haslewey Centre assistant manager, said: “Haslewey has been in touch with Aga Kehinde, oncology educator at The Fountain Centre charity for cancer patients at the Royal County Surrey Hospital, about giving talks in Haslemere.

“We applied to the Big Lottery Fund and they really liked the idea. We are excited to start our new project with Aga, who is a cancer coach.

“We are aiming to begin with an eight-week course in May on Action for Happiness.

“It’s such an amazing opportunity for cancer victims and their families, carers and friends, and will also include financial tips.”

Haslewey invited residents who would otherwise be alone to share a festive feast on Christmas Day that was attended by town mayor and mayoress David Round and Melanie Odell.

Guests were treated to Christmas lunch, carols and entertainment, funded by donations from the Penny Ha’penny Trust, Waitrose and Ellis Food Services Haslemere. They also received bespoke food hampers, personally made up by the Haslewey staff.