A hidden treasure in Stansted is extending a warm welcome to anyone over the age of 55.

Conveniently located adjacent to the public car park, come along to the Stansted Mountfitchet Day and Community Centre, Crafton Room in Chapel Hill and try the facilities.

The Centre, which has been an active part of the village for over 30 years, provides both residents and visitors the opportunity to socialise.

Tea, coffee, snacks and a two-course meal are served three days a week. Activities, outings and games are available in a friendly, social atmosphere. Why not pop in and enjoy a coffee with friends after shopping?

The meals on offer cost just £5 and include traditional classics like ham, egg, chips and beans, quiche, toad-in-the-hole, roasts and shepherd’s pie with desserts including crumble, bread and butter pudding, apple pie, cake and trifle.

The meals are all home-cooked and minimal tinned or frozen goods

are used. Many ingredients are sourced from local suppliers and special dietary requirements can be catered for.

The last Friday of the month is usually fish and chip day when cod is freshly prepared and cooked in beer batter on site.

Activities include an art group run by an experienced artist, various crafts and Bingo.

The Lunch Club is open on Tuesdays from 10.00am-3.00pm and on Thursdays and Fridays from 10.00am-2.00pm. Lunch is served at 12.30pm and should be booked by 11.00am on the day.

Volunteers are at the heart of the service and more are always needed. The Day Centre has many different opportunities for people wishing to get involved with their local community.

Anyone interested (even if you can only spare a couple of hours a month) should contact the Manager on 01279 815091. There are current vacancies for gardeners and drivers.

The spacious Day Centre hall is also available for hire.