Harpenden Salvation Army has been given the go-ahead for an extension to their church and community centre on Leyton Green.

Once the group raise the necessary funds, the extension will provide a new worship hall, counselling room and offices.

Captain Kenneth Guest said: “We hope that our new building will enable us to develop our youth work and services for older people.

“If you take into account the planned housing developments for the town and our ageing population, we believe safe, local places for people to meet, socialise and access support are needed now more than ever.

“We would like to thank the local community for their support. We will of course continue to involve our neighbours throughout the next stages of the project and if anyone has anything they wish to discuss with us, our door remains open.”

The group have estimated they will need £250,000 to complete the extension, and are hoping for support from local businesses and organisations.

To get in touch, email harpenden@salvationarmy.org.uk