A fundraising appeal is being launched to help secure the future of a social centre for older people.

Howard Garden Social Centre in Letchworth is a charity that provides educational, physical and mental recreation and activities, as well as hot meals, to older people in North Herts.

A spokesperson for the charity said: "This year, the centre needs the support of the community more than ever.

"The future of the centre depends on major maintenance and upgrade work taking place this year.

"The warm welcome that you find at the centre relies upon an aging heating system, so a new boiler and updated heating controls are at the top of Howard Garden Social Centre’s Christmas list this year!"

The centre, located on Norton Way South, is launching a fundraising appeal on Saturday, to coincide with its annual Christmas fair, and Letchworth's Christmas lights switch-on.

From 10am to 2pm at the centre, you will find gifts and crafts, hot drinks and food, and a festive raffle with tempting prizes.

Children are welcome, with face-painting, and chocolate and teddy tombolas for them to enjoy.

Hilary Kemp, one of the charity’s trustees, said: "With a 70-year-old building to maintain, combined with closure during the pandemic followed by steeply rising costs, Howard Garden Social Centre is now in need of serious investment in its future.

"We know that the elderly visitors from the Letchworth area really value the activities we provide, and rely upon the centre for social contact and hot meals.

"Our dedicated volunteers and staff need to be able to focus all their attention on the people who enjoy this community gem – the lunch club members, and the clubs and societies who hire rooms in the centre.

"By modernising the building, we can offer so much more to these users, and have the peace of mind that comes with efficient heating, reduced energy costs, upgraded security, and modern facilities."

To make a donation to the fundraising appeal, visit justgiving.com/campaign/howardgardensocialcentre.