MALVERN'S newest community centre will be inviting residents to celebrate its first birthday next Saturday, February 15.

The Malvern Vale Community Centre was built at the heard of the Malvern Vale estate, which has been developed over the last few years on the former North Site defence base.

The £800,000 centre was funded by Persimmon Homes as part of the housing development. It is owned Malvern Hills District Council and managed by Worcestershire YMCA.

And over the past 12 months, it has proved to be a great asset to the local community, with many groups using it as a base.

Centre manager Abby Hanley said it has had a good first year, and everyone involved is looking forward to building on its success.

Among the activities that use the centre are yoga, pilates and other exercise and fitness classes, the Beacon Camer aClub, Squirrels nursery, a youth club and two football teams.

"To celebrate how well we're doing, we're having this birthday party next Saturday, and we're inviting everyone from the community to come along and see what we're all about," she said.

"There will be lots of fun activities and plenty of stalls and people to meet. It runs from noon until 3pm, and it's not just for people from the new estate. All will be welcome."