A Letchworth charity is set to celebrate its 65th anniversary at the weekend with entertainment, stalls, raffles, dancing and refreshments.

The Comet: The centre is still going strong 65 years later. Picture: Courtesy of The Howard Garden Social CentreThe centre is still going strong 65 years later. Picture: Courtesy of The Howard Garden Social Centre (Image: Archant)

Howard Garden Social and Day Care Centre first opened its doors in 1953 by Sir Eric Macfadyen, former chairman of First Garden City Ltd.

Built before the days of sheltered housing and weekly lunch clubs, it provided a meeting place for older people where they could take part in activities and meet new people.

To coincide with its annual open day which runs from 10am to 2pm this Saturday, the centre will also host a day of celebrations which will include a display of pictures showing how the centre has changed over its 65 years.

The event will also include a dance display by the Rags Sharqi, who specialise in Egyptians dances. and organisers are hoping to have a classic car display.

The Comet: The centre will open host a celebration involved stalls, raffles and dancing to celebrate its 65th anniversary. Picture: Courtesy of The Howard Garden Social CentreThe centre will open host a celebration involved stalls, raffles and dancing to celebrate its 65th anniversary. Picture: Courtesy of The Howard Garden Social Centre (Image: Archant)

Entertainers who volunteer their time to sing for members weekly will also be getting invovled in the celebrations.

A spokesman for the centre, situated in Howard Park and Gardens off Norton Way South, said: “One of the main advantages of the centre is it helps to stop the older people of the community from feeling isolated.

“A fair amount of our members only see people when they come to the centre.

“They enjoy joining in the activities or just sitting and having a chat with the other members, or even the volunteers.

The Comet: The Howard Garden Social Centre first opened its doors in 1953. Picture: Courtesy of The Howard Garden Social CentreThe Howard Garden Social Centre first opened its doors in 1953. Picture: Courtesy of The Howard Garden Social Centre (Image: Archant)

“The centre is a friendly and welcoming place where everyone is greeted with a warm welcome and a friendly smile.

“It is also used as a meeting place by different community groups in the evenings and weekends.”

As well as being a socialable and caring environment, clients can also benefit from a variety of activities, including swimming, table tennis, a knit and natter group, and a seated keep fit class, while members can enjoy hot meals from Monday to Friday for £4.50.

It costs the centre £50,000 to run per year, and funds raised from the open day will go towards that cost.

To find out more about the charity, go to www.howardgardensocialcentre.org or call the centre direct on 01462 682524.