A NEW activity centre - in honour of the late Queen Elizabeth II - will open its doors for elderly residents across Barnsley later this month.

The Elizabeth Centre, based on Queen’s Road, is a new project set up by Age UK Barnsley to commemorate the seven decades of the Queen’s service to the country.

It will be officially opened on April 27 by the deputy Mayor of Barnsley, Coun Mick Stowe.

Age UK Barnsley CEO Debby Bunn said: “We are delighted to be able to announce the official launch of our Elizabeth Activity and Care Centre, which will provide a safe, friendly and stimulating environment for older people in need of a little extra support.

“The launch of the Elizabeth Centre builds on the caring and compassionate day services provision we have offered at Age UK Barnsley since 2020 and will provide new facilities in our Ken Littlewood Suite.”

The Ken Littlewood suite is Age UK Barnsley’s brand-new shower and treatment facility where clients can enjoy an array of spa treatments, hairdressing, massage and relaxation in a safe environment.

The service are also able to offer showering facilities in the new wet room, with a little extra support from staff for those who need it.

The suite is named after the late Ken Littlewood.

Ken was a long-standing client with Age UK Barnsley who died away earlier this year, leaving a donation to the charity - which has been used to partly fund the renovation and installation of the new room.

Mrs Bunn added: “We are so proud to be able to recognise and remember Ken’s involvement with Age UK Barnsley in this way and feel that this is the perfect tribute to such a great friend to us all.

“I would strongly encourage anyone who wants to find out more about our day services to get in touch and arrange a free taster session.”

The Elizabeth Centre will also provide respite provision for family and carers who can have can have a break from their caring role.