CELEBRATIONS have been held to mark the silver anniversary of a centre for adults with mental health problems.

Former colleagues and guests gathered at St Margaret’s Centre, on Margery Lane in Durham on Wednesday.

Formed in 1981 the centre, a registered charity, offers a range of preventative and recovery activities and courses.

More than 40 people enjoyed a buffet lunch and a cake was cut to mark the occasion.

Centre manager Rob Chatwin said: “There was a very good atmosphere and it was nice that a service user stood up and said a few words and thanked the trustees for all that we do for everybody there.

“Despite all of the funding cuts that are continually hitting us we are still here and surviving and still planning to grow with other opportunities for employment and training.”

The event coincided with the funeral of the former Bishop of Durham, David Jenkins, who was one of the original patrons of the centre.

It was attended by two founding members, Colin Tonks and Ken Garbett, who paid tribute to him.