A BASINGSTOKE cancer charity invited its supporters to a celebratory evening to mark the official opening of its new premises.

The Pink Place has moved to a new home in Wote Street with the aim of eventually expanding its services.

The charity, set up in September 2010, currently offers support to women suffering from breast cancer.

Sessions are held every Monday from Taylor’s Hair and Beauty, giving women the chance to enjoy some much-needed pampering.

Janis Taylor, who owns Taylor’s Hair and Beauty and who founded The Pink Place, said the new premises was made possible thanks to the support of the charity’s volunteers.

She added: “There’s such a desperate need for what we are doing and eventually we want to operate five days a week. We want to help men and children as well.”

The new venue has been completely refurbished, and was designed by a professional interior designer who gave her time for free. Many items have been donated, including a coffee machine.

The Pink Place is now spread across two floors upstairs in the building where there are beauty rooms, hairdressing stations and a private room on the third floor for the charity’s wig service.

Claire Watson, a trustee, said: “It’s the next stage of our development and growth, and our vision is very much that we can provide services to more people in the local community.”

The mother-of-one added: “The whole atmosphere and the environment that we want to create is something which is perhaps very different from a hospital sort of environment. It’s about relaxation and de-stressing.”

The Pink Place works in partnership with Basingstoke hospital, and women are provided details of the charity after diagnosis.

The charity has just announced its new patron – consultant surgeon Kevin Harris, who specialises in breast surgery treatment. Claire said: “He has supported us all the way.”

At the celebration evening, guests enjoyed a drinks reception with canapés, and Councillor Roger Gardiner, Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, cut a ribbon to declare the new venue officially open.

The Pink Place relies on the help of volunteers, and is always looking for more people to come on board.

For more information, visit thepinkplace.org or email .