A CHARITY in Thornbury offering support to people with brain tumours has celebrated the opening of their new office in the town.

The official opening on Wednesday, September 21, of Brian Tumour Support new base in Thornbury High Street, following a move from Castle Street, brought together the charity’s supporters from across the South West and Midlands.

Guests were treated to speeches from the charity’s chairman Andrew Chater, and charity ambassador Kieran Widdowson, who were then joined by Thornbury mayor Cllr Helen Harrison to open the office and unveil the charity vision - that no one feels alone when facing the effects of a brain tumour diagnosis.

Reflecting on his personal experiences as a patient with Brain Tumour Support, Mr Widowson said: “To this day, the support I receive and give is all down to what I've gained from this charity.

“I'm proud to be an ambassador as much as I am a volunteer. It helps me to support others and to keep the knowledge and awareness going that no-one should fight their brain tumour battle alone, because I know, as you do, together we are stronger.”

The charity, which receives no government funding, has provided support to over 2,000 people in the past two years and is continuing to grow.

Tina Mitchell Skinner, the charity’s CEO and founder, said: “I am constantly overwhelmed by our supporters; they are truly inspirational and they are the reason the charity exists. I feel excited to lead the team into a new phase of support.”

Fundraising team leader Helen Silverthorn added: "We receive no government funding and rely on donations and supporter fundraising. Raising awareness of our charity and increasing our funding is vital to the growth of the charity. Without this, we will not be able to continue our much needed services."

For more information on Brain Tumour Support, visit their website at www.braintumoursupport.co.uk