OKEHAMPTON Children's Centre has organised a special party to celebrate its fifth anniversary.

The centre opened five years ago to provide free support to parents and carers of under fives. Managed by Barnardo's on behalf of Devon County Council, it uses local venues to offer a wide range of services including parenting programmes, first aid courses, baby massage and breastfeeding peer support.

To celebrate their success, the team has organised a free event in Simmons Park on Wednesday, July 18.

The Barnardo's Big Toddle at 10.30am will see lots of under-fives dressed as their favourite superheroes for a sponsored walk, and there will be a bouncy castle, balloon modeller and other activities. Families will then joing staff in cutting a specially decorated birthday cake at noon.

Barnardo's children's centre leader Chris Parsons said: 'We have a caring and enthusiastic team which has made a lasting difference to the local community.

'Our committed staff and volunteers have worked with hundreds of families to help them achieve their potential.

'We hope that local families will continue to make the most of the wonderful opportunities provided by this project, which offers free support during the crucial early years of a child's life.'

Devon County Councillor Andrea Davis, responsible for Children, Health and Wellbeing, said: 'Children's centres are brilliant places for families to come together to receive support and make friends in the local community.

'The range of services available to Okehampton is vital to young families and I'm sure the party in the park will be great fun for everyone involved to celebrate the project's success over the past five years.'