A charity which has been serving the community for decades has celebrated reaching a "significant" landmark.

Halstead Day Centre, in Bridge Street, opened its doors to the public last week to mark its 40th anniversary.

Existing members were treated to a special lunch and were joined by a host of special guests, including MP James Cleverly and town mayor Andrew Munday.

Decorations were placed outside the day centre to highlight the anniversary and a special commemorative cake was also made for the event.

Manager Veronica Harman said: "It was a wonderful day and it was so good to see so many people come down and support us.

"There was about 80 people who came along in the end, including members and other visitors. We had a light lunch, some cake and a speech from chair of trustees, Dorothy Lodge, to help us celebrate.

"Reaching 40 years is a significant milestone because there aren't many day centres running anymore, so we have done really well to keep going.

"We have had our ups and downs but we are doing ok."

The day centre was presented with a cheque for £600 by Earls Colne WI, while the Saffron Building Society, which has a branch in Halstead High Street, also handed over £100 in donations.

Halstead Day Centre offers a friendly environment to people aged 60 and over who are looking to socialise and keep active.

For more information, contact the centre on 01787 476853.