WEST Somerset's Talking Newspaper - which has been keeping blind and partially sighted people in touch with the local news for more than 30 years - has a new home.

The charity, which relies entirely on fundraising and donations to cover its £5,000 a year costs, has set up a new studio in Williton's parish office in Killick Way.

The relocation from its former base in the village's police station was celebrated with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, with Somerset's High Sheriff Sylvana Chandler carrying out the honours.

The organisation has more than 30 volunteers who produce fortnightly tapes of the Free Press for the 65 clients on its books.

Around 30 people attended the opening of the new studio and were able to see how the operation, which also includes recordings of magazines and library books, works.

A special presentation was made to Williton resident Frank Morgan, who with the late Ray Young from Withycombe helped found the talking newspaper in 1980.

Mr Young's widow Barbara was at the opening ceremony and presented Mrs Chandler with a bouquet of flowers.

Talking newspaper chairman Roger Hurst said the charity provided a vital service to blind and partially sighted people across West Somerset.

The service was free and included the provision of listening equipment for clients if needed.

"We receive no grant aid at all so we have to rely on fundraising, donations and legacies," said Mr Hurst.

"We are very grateful to all our volunteers, to the Free Press and its staff and to the staff at Williton Post Office who deal with the posting of the tapes."

Photo: Steve Guscott