bw p7 ALL the hard work by supporters of a Bexley charity has been rewarded with the opening of its new headquarters.

Bexley Mencap which supports people with learning disabilities and their families, was forced to move from its Betty Tod (corr) Centre in Lesney Park Road, Erith, two years ago.

The centre, which had taken 20 years to develop, was demolished in 2008 to make way for new housing for people with learning disabilities.

Now the charity has bought and refurbished a new home in Church Road, Bexleyheath, with cash raised through its supporters.

The building, which was formally opened by Bexley mayor, Councillor Val Clark, will be used by parents and carers for meetings and social activities and by the learning disabled for training and project work.

Mencap also hopes to develop more services and its new home is also available to other community groups.