THE Winsford Trust is encouraging local people and businesses to start artistic and creative projects at the community centre in Halwill Junction.

The trust's main intention is to focus on encouraging creative and artistic endeavours that make use of the building's facilities.

The trust would like to develop courses, activities, workshops and events related to arts and crafts, and would like anyone with ideas for potential projects to get in touch.

The centre will also be available for more general hire, such as conferences, parties and weekend retreats.

The open plan rooms, IT suite, acre of gardens and fully functional kitchen make the centre perfect for local business initiatives, artists, training companies, voluntary organisations, clubs, societies and youth groups.

The Winsford Trust came into being in 1999 following the closure of Winsford Cottage Hospital.

Led by the Winsford Hospital League of Friends, the local community formed a committee in partnership with Age Concern Torridge to secure the ownership and development of the building for the benefit of the area.

To find out more, call the Winsford Centre on 01409 221470.