A community hub which gives support to people of all ages has launched a fundraising campaign to raise £50,000.

Meet Up, on Redcastle Furze Estate in Thetford, is calling on businesses and individuals to help it raise cash for essential repairs that will secure its future for years to come.

The centre has helped thousands of people since launching in 2010, having been made possible by Big Lottery funding.

But the building it inherited is in a 'declining state', according to the Benjamin Foundation, which runs the hub.

Repairs to a dilapidated roof are set to cost £30,000 alone, while fixes are also needed to lighting, and the building's toilets.

Mike Towndrow, manager of Meet Up, urged people to do what they could to come forward in its hour of need.

'Meet Up means so much to such a diverse range of people within our community.

'It is a social lifeline as well as a professional resource for many. We help people to raise their aspirations and believe in themselves, which in turns benefits the wider community,' he said.

He added: 'There are lots of ways that people and businesses can help.

'Of course financial donations are needed, but so are practical materials, like paint, vinyl flooring, timber, toilet fittings, cleaning products and so on.

'If any businesses out there could help with donating these sort of things, or pledging gifts in kind, like pro bono work from carpenters, plumbers and electricians, or perhaps lending us the services of a maintenance person for the day, it would really help.'

For more information on how to help or donate, contact mike.towndrow@benjaminfoundation.co.uk or call 01842 820871. You can also email karen.smith@benjaminfoundation.co.uk or call 01603 615670.