A NEW facility for the benefit of older people in Tavistock and the surrounding areas has been launched as a replacement for the Old Folk's Rest Room.

Tavistock Area Support Services (TASS) opened the 'Upstairs Lounge' at the Anchorage Centre after 12 months of development, with a formal cake cutting ceremony.

The new facility was made possible with grants from Devon County Council, Tavistock And Villages Initiative (TAVI), the Old Folks Rest Room and various trusts and private donors.

Manager of TASS Andy Lyle said the Upstairs Lounge will benefit a lot of people.

He said: 'The new lounge will not only provide a place for older people to drop in for a cuppa and a chat, but also a place for other groups such as whist, art, chess and luncheon clubs to meet and enjoy new surroundings.

'This is a wonderful new resource where we can support those who used to use the Old Folk's Rest Room, as well as developing new services over the coming months. We aim to start a film club, watching a wide range of programmes and films, as well as installing a WII Fit.

'The facility is a wonderful place for people to sit and talk while enjoying a cup of tea with friends.'

The Upstairs Lounge will be open on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings. To find out more call the Anchorage Centre on 01822 616958 or visit the TASS website at http://www.tasstavistock.org.uk">www.tasstavistock.org.uk