A CHARITY has officially opened in its new city centre location.

Age UK County Durham has opened in North Road, Durham, where it can provide a drop-in information and advice service and trading outlet. It has also moved to new headquarters on Belmont Business Park.

Durham County Council refurbished the building as part of a deal to buy the charity’s old offices next to Hopper House, part of the redevelopment of North Road.

Harriet Gibbon, the charity’s chief executive, said the move had helped it reduce costs.

She added: “We have been able to maintain a high profile city centre presence which provides a gateway to the many services and activities that we offer to improve the quality of life for older people.

“Our new premises at 68 North Road provide a welcoming environment with private interview rooms so that we can provide an even better service to help those who can benefit from our advice and support.”

Cllr Edward Bell, who opened the centre, said: “We’re delighted that we’ve been able to help such a vital charity provide even better services for the residents of County Durham.”