THE Woodlarks Centre in Lower Bourne opened its doors to celebrate America’s Independence Day on July 4, as well as to thank its supporters and volunteers.

Residents, their family and friends, supporters and volunteers made their way to the centre last Thursday, just weeks after it celebrated its 70th anniversary with a fete at Gostrey Meadow.

Beaumont Village residents, a retirement community in Aldershot, also made their way to The Woodlarks Centre and said it was “nice to be involved” in the Independence Day event.

Guests and residents were treated to a barbeque, with food courtesy of the centre’s caterer Teresa Benham, which they enjoyed in glorious sunshine in the garden area.

Ben Madombwe, fundraising manager at The Woodlarks Centre, a care home and activity centre which offers support to people with a range of disabilities, told the Herald the event was held in appreciation of “how much help the community gives”.

It was also a chance for everyone to “relax and catch up with each other”.

Ben added the residents “loved” the event and had been “looking forward to it”.