A CHARITY that helps scores of people across Winchester has marked its very own platinum jubilee.

Citizens Advice, which provides support throughout Winchester, celebrated its 70 year anniversary on June 21 alongside the Mayor of Winchester.

The charity held a special event at Chesil House to celebrate with its volunteers and supporters.

Louise Walton, 40, who has worked as business development manager at Citizens Advice for just over a year, said: “The event was fantastic timing, the pandemic was so challenging and to be able to run this event that celebrated our work we have done for the local area and be given the opportunity to thank our staff and funders for the ongoing work they have been doing but also how everyone has risen to the challenge of Covid over the past few years.

Hampshire Chronicle: Everyone gathered around at Chesil House.

“It was a very successful event, we had slightly higher attendance than what we were expecting, which was great, and we had beautiful weather as well, it was just a great setting.

“It was also amazing to see people face to face because most of our contact has been remote in the past couple of years. It was lovely to have that opportunity to catch up with people in person.

READ MORE: People from Hampshire help raise money for Ukraine through publication of charity book

“Our main goal is to support anyone who may be experiencing any sort of vulnerability or facing any kind of difficulty. We work to support people and help them receive any specialist support if they need it.

Hampshire Chronicle: At the Citizens Advice 70th anniversary event.

“As well as the event we had last year, we have been doing and are still planning more activities to celebrate our 70th. For example, a few of our team members have been doing individual challenges.

"So, things like giving up alcohol for 70 days and I know someone is planning on baking 70 cakes at some point, which I am quite excited about. We’re also planning a sponsored walk in September and a Christmas concert in early December with a local choir.”

Hampshire Chronicle: A 70th year anniversary cake for Citizens Advice.

Citizens Advice aims to provide free, impartial advice to thousands of local people every year and help people find a way forward during times of great stress and anxiety.

For more information go to citizensadvicewinchester/.org.uk

A message from the editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support.

Subscribing means you have unrestricted access to the latest news and reader rewards - all with an advertising-light website.

Don't take my word for it – subscribe here to see for yourself.

Looking to advertise an event? Then check out our free events guide.

Want to keep up with the latest news and join in the debate? You can find and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.