A BUSY day centre has been given a "desperately" needed makeover by staff from a nearby store.

The reception room in Stourport Social Day Centre was decorated by a team of five staff volunteers from the town's Co-op.

Barbara McCredie, afternoon hostess at the centre, said: "I'm delighted. It was a big job and most of the people here are getting older and can't climb around quite the same."

"They have made such a difference and really lifted the spirits of our users. For many people, this is a second home and so it has had a big impact."

"We have wondered whether, without a refurbishment, this centre would be shut down and so this decoration work was even more important as a part of that."

Steve Farmer, manager at Stourport Co-op store, said: "We're a community retailer and have had a long association with the centre and many of our customers use the facilities there."

The Midcounties Co-operative had already awarded the centre a £1,000 grant to help replace 30-year-old asbestos wall cladding.

The centre is principally used by people aged over 55 but is also a meeting place for Scouts, Guides, church groups and different societies and classes.

Mrs McCredie said: "Our centre is a lifeline for many older people who would often be lonely without it."

Remaining refurbishment work at the centre in New Street includes the replacement of panels on the outside walls and new doors.