THERE was a touch of festive spirit in the air much earlier for members of the Lorna Doone Day Centre, in Wootton Bassett.

The group based at a bungalow in the grounds of Ridgeway House, Wootton Bassett, enjoyed a pre-Christmas afternoon out at Church Croft last week.

Volunteers who help to run the facility throughout the year from St Bartholomew's Church, provided a tea party.

But there was also a chance to beat the Christmas shopping rush with opportunities to browse and buy from a range of goods and greetings cards .

"They do this for us every year, and our people appreciate it very much, " said Pam Terry, who manages the centre.

The visitors were welcomed by the vicar, Fr Barnard Garratt, and members of the team who staff Church Croft and the Vine Christian Bookshop during the year.

The Lorna Doone Centre is a valued, and long established facility for people who have had health problems or whose mobility is restricted. All have been referred there by their doctor or care worker.

The centre receives excellent support for its fundraising sales and also benefits from outings and events which are arranged by the organisers.