A CHARITY which aims to improve the lives of older people has opened an outlet in Helmsley.

The centre, run by Age UK Scarborough and District, a locally-based independent charity, was officially opened by Ryedale MP Kevin Hollinrake

Chief executive Julie-Anne Macey said: “Following the closure of the Age UK England shop in the town a few months ago, we decided as a local charity that we would like to have a presence within the Helmsley area.

“Any monies or donations that are made, are used to help the elderly within our local area.

“We have opened it at the moment as a shop, however, we plan on turning this into a resource centre, with community link worker drop-in, a space for tea and coffee, a table to play games and some activities being central to the centre."