DISABILITY charity The Open Door Centre has celebrated 30 years of helping some of the town’s most vulnerable people.

The group held a celebration on Tuesday at its base, in St Barnabas Church Hall, Ferndale Road.

During the party the group pledged to raise another £30,000, during the year to improve the lives of those they support.

Susan Pearson, office administrator with the group, said the celebration had been a success – as well as unusually quiet.

“It all went very well,” she said.

“And we even raised some money with 29 of our members doing a sponsored silence for an hour.

“If you know our members, you’ll know that’s quite an achievement.”

There were a wide range of refreshments at the event with Mayor Teresa Page coming to celebrate the milestone.

Susan, who has been with the Open Door Centre for 10 years, said: “I think the secret behind us existing for 30 years is the hard work from everyone involved.

“We intend to be here for at least another 30 years.”

The centre provides a range of activities in a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment to help vulnerable people develop independence.

Call 01793 512357 or visit www.theopendoor centre.co.uk for more information about the charity.