A PREGNANCY Crisis Centre has opened in Chippenham to offer support and advice to women facing unexpected pregnancy.

The centre will offer free pregnancy testing, a confidential listening service and advice on options available to women, their partners and their families.

The centre will be run by Sue Richards and Tara Sinclair who are part of a team of 12 advisors.

"Our aim is to offer a safe place where women can come and explore their situation and options in a non-pressurised and non-judgemental atmosphere," said Mrs Richards.

The centre was the brainchild of Mrs Richards and Mrs Sinclair who decided two years ago that it was something the town really needed.

"We all know people in this situation and they need somewhere to go. There is nowhere like this in Chippenham," said Mrs Sinclair.

She said the centre was open to all ages but she was aware that teenage pregnancy was a problem across the country.

"I think we will have teenagers coming to us for help but we will also have a school worker going into local schools talking about sex education, our service and the whole issue," said Mrs Sinclair.

The trained volunteer advisors come from various local churches and have all completed a 50-hour accredited training course.

"All services are totally free and confidential and are open to anyone of any faith or none," said Mrs Richards.

The centre was opened by MP James Gray and Chippenham Mayor and Mayoress, Richard Meek and Karin Meek last Saturday.

The first advice session was held yesterday lunchtime at the centre's premises in the Olive Branch counselling service at 57a New Road.

The centre is open to all on Wednesday from 12-2pm and Fridays 7-9pm.

"We will extend the hours once people know about the service and more people start coming. We are open at a lunch time so we are available to people that work and on a Friday evening."