Television actress Belinda Lang was in Swindon for the official opening of the NSPCC'S purpose built North Swindon Family Centre.

Belinda, who plays Bill in the BBC1 comedy 2Point4 Children, cut a celebratory cake to mark the opening of the centre in Atworth Close, Penhill.

She said:"No one tells you how to be a parent and as anyone who has children knows, you learn as you go along. It can be very isolating."

"This centre is important to provide help and support to parents. This is the second such centre I have visited and I look forward to more being built in the future."

Belinda, became a supporter of the NSPCC after having a child of her own.

Guests, including users of the centre, NSPCC staff and volunteers, Swindon Mayor Arthur Archer and his wife Doris, were entertained by the Kingsdown School Wind Ensemble during the launch.

Centre manager Garry Holmes said: "The case of Paul Oldacre, a Penhill resident who was recently jailed for life for the murder of his seven-month old son, Jamie, is very fresh in the minds of local people.

"While the emphasis here at the centre is on positive parenting, we want to get the message across that we are here for parents in times of stress. Families don't have to have a problem to come here but the support we offer can really be a lifeline. We aim to create a warm and supportive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and valued."

Mayor Arthur Archer paid tribute to the vast army of volunteers who helped run the service. He also presented prizes to winners of an NSPCC painting competition, Brandon Frieslaar, 5, Hannah Miller, 7 and Jade Gowan, 8.

Originally based in Hannington Close, the NSPCC's North Swindon Family Centre provides a range of services for children and families in Penhill, Abbey Meads and Pinehurst. Since opening its doors to families in March, it has been used by about 50 families.

The centre offers drop-in sessions for parents and children, a junior club for six to 10 year olds, a sleep clinic for babies, play courses, a toy library and a school start programme which supports families to help them adjust during their first days at school.

The new purpose-built centre was funded with an £80,000 grant from Swindon Borough Council, and £75,000 from the NSPCC. On going costs will be financed by £45,000 from social services and £58,000 from Swindon Borough Council.

The centre's stated aims are to:

Provide, promote and contribute to the establishment of facilities and services which maintain and improve family life and which alleviate the effects of stress on family members.

Prevent children from suffering significant harm as a result of abuse.

Provide a stimulating and safe environment for children.

Encourage the involvement of centre users in the activities of the centre and its day to day management.