ROMSEY Quakers are celebrating their third anniversary.

The group, which has given funds to groups including Romsey Foodbank, Romsey Stroke Club and Student Minds, is also marking the achievement of raising £1,500 for good causes in the town.

The current group is the first one to be held in a public venue in Romsey for more than 200 years.

Mike Perks, founding member, said: "Three years doesn't sound much, but it's very important to us. When seven of us set the meeting up we had no idea whether it would survive.

"Not only has it survived but it has expanded.

"We have now tripled our numbers and look forward to welcoming more people looking for an open-minded spiritual community, or just wanting to experience a still space in a busy world."

Other causes that have benefitted from funds raised by the group include Romsey Family Support Group and Woodley Fun Day. The group says priority has been given to local charities which are unlikely to receive funding from further afield.

Mike added: "Those who come to our meetings are generous, which is why we are delighted to have been able to support Romsey charities to the tune of £1,500."