CUSTOMERS and volunteers at Skipton's popular Swadford Centre have welcomed a new manager.

Skipton born and bred Caren Lee is also in charge of catering at the centre, on Swadford Street, which provides a meeting place, refreshments and meals for the over 50s.

Caren, who has worked in catering for most of her career, apart from a spell working at the town's Post Office, said she was looking forward to the challenge of providing good home-cooked food for customers.

She explained: "It's been a bit of a baptism of fire - we were run off our feet last week! But I've loved every minute so far. I am trying to put the focus very much on home-made produce - we offer fresh pies and soup every day, for example, on a varied menu.

"It's a very friendly atmosphere at the centre. I am turning 50 this year, and so are a lot of my friends, so I am hoping I'll be welcoming them down here as well."

Apart from Caren herself, the centre is entirely staffed by volunteers and is always on the lookout for more people to go along and help, she said.

"Anyone who can give us even a couple of hours a week would be most welcome."

The Swadford Centre is open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am to 3.30pm, except Tuesdays when it is closed.