THE Stanley Centre celebrated 30 years of improving the lives of people with learning and physical disabilities.

The mayor of Cheshire East, Cllr Lesley Smetham and the mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Peter Coan, were among the 80 staff, families and guests who joined the celebrations at the centre in the grounds of Knutsford Community Hospital.

Businesses, including Woods Butchers of Knutsford, Ansa, Roberts Bakery and Ascol Drive Nursery, supported the event and entertainment was provided by the Langley Djembe Drummers.

Resourced by CEC, the Stanley Centre has enjoyed three decades of helping people with disabilities to lead a fulfilled life. Service users range from 18 years, with some in their 70s.

Staff and volunteers organise a range of activities to help individuals develop confidence, self-esteem and skills.

Activities include visits to Tatton Park to learn about farming, also cooking, gardening, music, drama, computer skills and many other everyday skills.

Groups also volunteer in the community and enjoy trips to the cinema. Knutsford Lions, among others, is one of the charities supporting the organisation.

Cllr Janet Clowes said: “This is a significant milestone and I would like to congratulate the team on their 30 years of dedicated work and the amazing support they provide.”

Sarah Webb, resource manager, said: “We know that the people who come to us really value the wide range of activities we are able to offer. It is extremely rewarding to see them develop new skills, build their confidence and a degree of independence and self-esteem.”