HOME-START Wigan and Leigh is celebrating 10 years of supporting local families.

In a that time staff and volunteers have helped 675 families involving 1,610 children through their home visiting service and tomorrow Friday evening an anniversary thanksgiving service is being held at Leigh Parish Church.

A spokesman said: “We would like to welcome everyone, especially families, volunteers and of course many of the people who have played a part in making our organisation the success it is over the past ten years.

“For families our support can make an incredible difference when they’re finding it hard to cope with life’s challenges and they are tired, unhappy or exhausted. They could be struggling with postnatal illness, a child’s disability, family breakdown or a bereavement or maybe feel isolated. Home-Start provides non-judgemental practical and emotional support and helps to build the family’s confidence and ability to cope.

“Our volunteers offer support and friendship to other parents through home visiting. We are part of the UK’s leading family support charity and our organisation is valued and trusted by families and professionals alike. Over the years we have trained over 240 volunteers who have worked well to support families in enjoying family life again.”