Volunteers and councillors marked a special anniversary recently for an important service organisation.

Citizens Advice East Hampshire (CAEH) celebrated its 85th anniversary alongside East Hampshire District Council (EHDC). It is funded by an annual grant from the council to ensure residents have access to the knowledge, confidence and help they need.

Launched in September 1939, a day after Britain declared war on Germany, to help deal with problems relating to the loss of ration books, homelessness and evacuation. The charity now helps people with debt and money problems, consumer issues, family troubles, legal disputes and more.

CAEH is provided with £186,000 a year from EHDC, which helps to fund the service currently delivered in Whitehill & Bordon, Alton and Petersfield.

CEO Helen Drake said: “The financial support that EHDC provides allows us to continue helping residents with the problems they face - whoever they are, whatever the problem and wherever they live in the district. We could not continue without the crucial core funding from EHDC and are so grateful for the council's continued support over the years.

"We are looking forward to the future, continuing to help people in an impartial and confidential way with any issues they face at that time - please do call, email or drop into our offices if you need our help."

Cllr Adeel Shah added: “We are proud to have supported Citizens Advice East Hampshire through significant financial contributions over a number of years to ensure they can continue their vital work.

“Their volunteers provide invaluable assistance to residents facing legal, financial and personal challenges, and make a huge and positive impact on our community.

“We are very fortunate in East Hampshire to have three Citizens Advice offices, one in Bordon, Alton and Petersfield. It was a delight to join Helen and the volunteers on this important anniversary.”