THE HOPE Centre in Halesowen celebrated surviving its all important first year by holding a slap up meal for the people of the Highfields Estate.

Thanks to the dedication of the staff the Hope Centre, Andrew Road, was established in January after the Lighthouse Project folded.

In the last 12 months, thanks to the determination of Camilla Phillips and Wendy Whiley, the centre has attracted over 1,500 visitors and now offers an array of services and help groups for local people.

Camilla, Wendy, volunteers and local residents were joined at the Hope Centre by Belle Vale Councillor Jill Nicholls and Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris, for the festive lunch with all the trimmings. Wendy said: “We are delighted that the Hope Centre is still helping people after a year of a lot of hard work and dedication.

“We knew there are a lot of people in this area that need help and support and hopefully we will still be going strong next year.”

The big celebration also included the unveiling a new a mosaic welcome sign designed and made by local people to show the centre as a ‘place of new beginnings’. Belle Vale Councillor Jill Nicholls said: “I am so proud of Wendy and Camilla who run the centre who have given up their time, and skills freely for the benefit of others.

“The Hope Centre has provided help, and support for people who are lonely, isolated, and unemployed'.

“It is nice that people from all walks of life could come together to celebrate Christmas.”

For further information, to offer financial support, donate food or clothing or to volunteer Wendy or Camilla can be contacted on 0121 602 1744 or email hopecentre@hotmail.com.