A homelessness charity has marked 25 years since it opened its Haven building to the public.

The Haven provides hot food, showers, laundry facilities, clothing, housing advice and one-to-one support to people in Watford who are rough sleeping or at risk of losing their home.

On July 8, New Hope invited guests to learn more about the work they do and mark the anniversary as well as cut a special cake that had been made for the occasion.

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Dr Tim Robson and Sheila Meaning BEM, two of the founding members of New Hope, were present, along with Bishop Alan, the Bishop of St Albans, Anne Hegerty, one of the ‘chasers’ from TV’s The Chase and who lives in Watford, and the town's Conservative MP Dean Russell.

Rob Edmonds, deputy chief executive of New Hope, said: "The open day was a wonderful occasion for people to come along and find out more about the vital services provided by the team of staff and volunteers at the Haven. It was also a fantastic opportunity to strengthen relationships with partner organisations."

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Mr Russell added: "I always enjoy visiting New Hope and I had a lovely afternoon celebrating 25 years of The Haven. The work that everybody at New Hope does is amazing, the staff and volunteers are so dedicated to helping others."

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