A HARPENDEN charity which supports young people through its Christian values is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Youth With A Mission (YWAM), based at Highfield Oval, is a regional branch of a national charity, which was formed in the area in 1986.

Back then the site in Ambrose Lane was still owned by the National Children's Home, which built the property in the 1900s. YWAM rented a part of it until 1993 when it was purchased as a training and administration centre.

Over the years a new community has been set up at Highfield Oval and today a number of thriving educational courses are led.

The Harpenden YWAM has volunteer staff of about 120 residents, as well as 80 students each quarter.

The 47-acre Oval is also popular with the wider Harpenden community who make use of the cafe, fitness classes and areas for dog walking.

Leader John Peachey said: “YWAM Harpenden is excited about plans for improvements to the site that will provide more accommodation for staff and students, while enhancing facilities for use by the wider community.”

To celebrate the landmark anniversary, representatives of the charity, the Mayor of Harpenden Councillor Michael Weaver and deputy mayor Councillor Geoff Harrison attended an afternoon thanksgiving service on Sunday, June 12.