An Accrington-based charity will be celebrating its 25th anniversary this week by holding a street party outside its base.

Beneficiaries, local dignitaries, partners, supporters, and volunteers have been invited to celebrate Maundy Relief’s anniversary on Thursday.

Maundy Relief was founded in October 1998 by Dorothy McGregor and her friends and colleagues, Len Singleton and Alan Freeman, with the purpose of supporting those struggling in life by providing food and the opportunity to talk and receive companionship.

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Dorothy died in 2013 but her example remains within the charity’s culture today as they remain the first port of call and the last resort for many.

Today, Maundy Relief offers a broad range of services, including counselling, benefits and other advice, physical and mental health support, advocacy, befriending, recreational activities, food parcels and household goods, emergency accommodation, and support to those in rented accommodation.

The charity has become highly regarded, receiving referrals from the NHS and social services, and also winning several national awards.

Mike Rose, chair of trustees at Maundy Relief, said: “We have come a long way in 25 years. We hope that Dorothy would be proud of what we have continued to build on her behalf and of those who most need us.

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“Sadly, it seems there will be a continuing need for ‘an immediate response to poverty and need’ and it is our intention to fulfil our mission for as long as we are required.”

Lucy Hardwick, CEO at Maundy Relief, added: “We are proud to be celebrating this special milestone and delighted that everyone connected to the charity can join together to recognise and give thanks for what has been achieved over the last quarter of a century.”

The street party will be held between 12.30pm to 3pm outside the charity’s space on Abbey Street, with mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Abdul Khan, due to be in attendance and cutting the birthday cake at 1.30pm.