The Acorn Crisis Pregnancy Centre in Liskeard celebrated its first anniversary with an open day on March 20.

The day gave members of the public the chance to view the centre and speak to the many voluntary workers involved. Also on view were displays, videos, literature and schools material.

The centre's primary concern is to provide women with unbiased and correct information in a sympathetic environment - somewhere where they can make their own informed decision in a non-judgemental atmosphere.

Organisers stressed the centre is where women, and men, facing an unplanned pregnancy, can talk through how they are feeling about themselves and their situation, about the crisis and the solution.

During the first year the centre received 27 enquiries from people seeking help. Eighteen girls and women have visited the premises, and a further nine have been counselled over the telephone. One client, who chose to continue with her pregnancy, was helped by the centre to find a home for herself and her baby. Arrangements were also made for a befriender to support the client during the pregnancy, and after the baby was born, and baby clothing and equipment were also provided.

In December a post abortion counselling course was completed by eight women. Future plans take in the provision of parenting classes.

The Acorn Centre is affiliated to Care for Life, which has 150 centres in the British Isles. It is the first in Cornwall.

At the open day, Georgie King, of Launceston social services women and girl support group, said: 'What has impressed me most about the centre is the non-clinical atmosphere. It's so welcoming and comfortable, and completely non-threatening.'