ASHBURTON’S information centre has celebrated its 25th anniversary with a town hall reception.

Among the VIPs who turned up for the special birthday bash were the centre’s three longest-serving staff members, including Pat Dickinson who has been there since day one.

Mayor Cllr Sarah Parker-Khan paid tribute to the facility’s longevity.

She said this week: ‘Marking the 25th anniversary shows the true spirit and commitment of the people of Ashburton.

‘To keep working away like it does is just great. It’s fantastic that we still have the centre when others have closed all over the country. It’s a real asset to the town. The staff are amazing.’

Among the treats at the gathering was a specially baked birthday cake, leftover portions of which were despatched to grateful residents of the nearby St Andrew’s Care Home.