MANAGERS, trustees, volunteers and helpers came together for a special Christmas celebration at Liphook Day Centre.

Chairman Paul Robinson spoke about the changes it had undergone during the year including the installation of LED lights and a complete refit of the kitchen as well as new disabled parking spaces in the Midhurst Road car park – all funded by grants.

Mr Robinson explained said: “Over the Christmas break we have been redecorating the main room, as well as some of the others. In 2017 we have to replace the carpet.

“The centre is blessed with a very well-managed, enthusiastic and effective fundraising team who have broken all records this year. There is a busy yearly calendar of skittles evenings, quizzes, coffee mornings, raffles, the sponsored bike ride as well as Sainsbury’s collections.

“A concert by Peter Paul and Mary’s Brother at the village hall in September turned into a ‘grand evening’, raising £1,750 for the centre, which is primarily a social facility, not a health centre. We rely on grants and fundraising for 40 per cent if our income. Quite simply, without it this facility would have to close down.”

President Bob Hall said the centre helps some 2,250 residents each year to overcome loneliness by meeting up two or three times a week. Call 01428 72494.