TODAY, Thursday, March 9, is National Social Prescribing day and one Teignbridge community centre is marking the occasion with a free event.

The Courtenay Centre in Newton Abbot will host representatives from statutory, charity and voluntary groups, with opportunities for informal chats and referrals.  

Also, there will be live demonstrations and special visits from trained therapy assistant dogs.

Social prescribing is when health professionals refer patients to support in the community, in order to improve their health and wellbeing.

The event, which is the first of its kind for the area, is being hosted by NHS Templer Primary Care Network, Cricketfield and Devon Square Surgery.

The friendly team of social prescriber, Nadine, mental health occupational therapist, Kelly-Anne, and dietitian, Debbie, will be on hand to answer questions and queries throughout.

A bundle of gift vouchers will be up for grabs also, as those attending can enter a free prize giveaway.

Some of the businesses to have donated vouchers include but are not limted to: Pizza Cafe; Ullacombe Farm Shop; No Limits Cafe Hub and River Dart Country Park.

The event will run from 11am until 1pm.