A SERVICE helping adults with learning disabilities has celebrated its first birthday.

Woodlands Wellbeing and Activity Centre, in Recreation Road, Colchester, set up a series of new activities 12 months ago.

Service users, right, and staff cut a cake and enjoyed a party to celebrate.

The scheme, run by Essex Cares, offerd arts and crafts, music sessions and community activities such as trampolining, ten pin bowling and lunch clubs all take place at the site.

Mags Branna, 39, has been a customer at Essex Cares’ Woodlands Centre since 2009 and visits three days a week.

She said: “The offerings at Woodlands are so much fun and there are so many different things you can choose from.

“This month I’m really looking forward to visiting the Tiptree jam factory, jewellery making, visiting the library and working on a nature project.”

Visiting the centre has helped Mags to build her confidence, interacting much more with her friends and others who visit the centre.

Alan Piniewski, operations manager at Essex Cares, said: “It was lovely to be able to officially mark the first anniversary.

“Everyone had a wonderful time and the special anniversary cake was delicious!

For further information about its range of services, call Essex Cares on 0800 035 9770, email info@essexcares.org or visit essexcares.org.