AGE UK’s Tulip Tree Centre in Kidderminster has undergone a £9,000 transformation.

The social hub for older people, in Castle Road, has had many coats of paint inside, new curtains and storage rooms have been turned into offices.

The group has also been able to buy new noticeboards and stands to display its services at events.

The money came in grants with £3,000 donated by the Charles Hayward Foundation, which funds national projects and £1,000 from R.D.Turner Charitable Trust, which manages Arley Estate and Arboretum. BIFFA waste management gave a further £5,000.

The work was done by Wyre Forest Community Housing Group and chief officer Jenny Knowles says it has given the place a new lease of life. “People are commenting on what a difference it has made. It just gives it such a lovely fresh look. A lot of hard work went into achieving it but the end result is so much more welcoming. It means so much to have got the grants as we couldn’t have afforded it otherwise.”

The centre is used by about 100 people for twice weekly lunch clubs as well a Young at Heart exercise class, a stroke group on Mondays and a friendship group Tuesday. The stroke group is currently looking for new members who have been affected by stroke who would like to chat, play dominoes or cards, take part in therapeutic exercise and have lunch. For more information call Jenny Knowles on 01562 827788.