A CENTRE which is helping to provide a 'Rolls Royce' service for the homeless and reduce anti-social behaviour in Minehead has received a £3,000 funding boost.

The Hope Centre had its beginnings two years ago when founders Sally Mclean and Geraldine Clark started taking hot drinks and food to homeless people congregating in the town's Blenheim Gardens.

They quickly realised there was a need for a drop-in facility, which they now run from Minehead's Baptist Church.

And this week their work won the support of the West Somerset Strategic Partnership (WSSP).

Chairman Loretta Whetlor said that when the funding application for the project had come to the WSSP, there was no hesitation in approving it.

"I am very impressed with the work they do and also with the dedication of the volunteers," she said.

The centre is open every Tuesday and offers a free three-course meal and hot drinks.

It sources clothing, bedding and furniture for the people using the facility, treating them with respect and providing a place where they can spend the day taking part in activities ranging from pool to table tennis.

Internet access is also available and visitors can have a bath, launder their clothes and also get a free haircut from the volunteers who staff the centre.

The centre has already won two awards for excellence from West Somerset Council and the Criminal Justice Board.

Minehead sector Inspector Carol Pearce, who is also vice-chairman of the WSSP, said: "The police and other agencies/partners are working together with the Hope Centre to provide a Rolls Royce service for those who find themselves in various difficulties across West Somerset.

"I am pleased to have secured funding from the WSSP for this worthwhile project, which is going from strength."

Local Police Community Support Officer Rachel Cutler regularly attends the centre and chats to the people using it: "I have seen a reduction in calls to anti-social behaviour in Blenheim Gardens and this is a direct result of the work of the centre," she said.

Ms Mclean said the centre was extremely grateful for all the support it received and that the grant aid would go a long way towards its daily running costs.

"It helps us to do so much more to help people. Working with other agencies, visitors to the centre have been found employment, accommodation and given hope for a positive future."

Pictured at the cheque handover are, from the left, John and Geraldine Clark, Sally Maclean, PCSO Rachel Cutler, Harriet Bridle, Loretta Whetlor and Shirley Webber.

Photo: Steve Guscott