THERE was a real 'community' atmosphere during the official opening of the family centre in St Martin's School.

Officials, volunteers and benefactors had the opportunity to look round the new centre that forms part of St Martin's Community Project.

Mayor of Hereford, Councillor Alan Williams was on hand to cut the tape to open an initiative that began when a group of parents from the literacy classes expressed an interest in a drop in centre.

The community based project offers learning opportunities for adults living within the South Wye area and new courses on the list will be first aid and GCSE English.

Plans for monthly Citizens Advice Bureau sessions and careers guidance are already in place and the centre aims to extend the facilities to incorporate job seekers skills.

A toy library is due to start in September offering a good range of toys for children up to the age of 11 and organisers hope to set up a parents and toddlers group in the near future.

Project leader, Helen Parker said: "It's grown beyond any expectation and it was possible thanks to the help of local small businesses.

For further information contact Helen Parker on 01432 359293.