A CHARITY has celebrated its 10th birthday with a special celebratory event.

The Willow Tree Centre in Yate has provided support to hundreds of women and their families over the last ten years concerning unintended pregnancies and sexual health education. It was founded in 2004 by Joy Fussell and celebrated its decade of work with a special event at Yate’s Armadillo Youth Cafe on Friday, November 7.

Staff and volunteers of the centre, patrons and trustees of the charity and representatives of local councils, churches and voluntary groups were amongst those congratulating the charity and thanking it for its hard work over the years.

Speaking at the event, Joy Fussell said: “I would like to thank everyone who has helped to make this dream a reality. Ten years ago I saw the need to offer confidential advice and support to anyone in distress due to unintended pregnancy or following baby loss.

“We have given specialist training to local volunteers who now provide a much needed service in this community. I am grateful to all of our supporters and volunteers who have made this possible”.

The Willow Tree Centre provides specialist services to people with learning difficulties as well as women facing unintended pregnancy.

It leases premises at St Nicholas Family Centre and sees clients in different venues in the area. Funding is received from a range of charitable sources as well as through providing services to schools, local authorities and other public bodies.

The four Patrons of the charity attended the celebrations; Gary and Cath Grant from the Entertainer Toy Shop, charity champion Bob Woodward OBE and local MP Steve Webb who has supported the charity throughout and who cut the ribbon when the charity first started ten years ago.

Mr Webb said: “The Willow Tree Centre performs an invaluable service to local people, providing a ‘safe space’ for those in need. I wish the Centre a long and successful future as it enters its next decade of service, and pay tribute to Joy Fussell, the inspirational founder of the Charity”.

For advice and information go to www.thewillowtreecentre.org.uk.