Although it opened its doors in January the Holsworthy Children's Centre was officially opened last Friday morning by the Chairman of Devon County Council, Cllr John Rawlinson.

First he and Mrs Rawlinson were taken on a tour of the £450,000 purpose built centre accompanied by Liz Rowe, the service coordinator, and were able to see the children at play, meet some of the parents and admire the excellent facilities.

Before he unveiled a plaque, a minute's silence was observed in memory of Des Shadrick. "The occasion is tinged with sadness," said Cllr Rawlinson. "Des had a passion for education and it was a matter of great pride to him that Sure Start was coming to Holsworthy."

The centre would provide the services needed by children and parents, both male and female, he continued. While the children were in a safe, secure and stimulating environment, the professional staff would be there to offer advice on every aspect of childcare, help mothers and fathers develop parenting skills and, if necessary, provide a shoulder to cry on.

He thanked the architects (Bazeley Partnership of Bude) for the imaginative design, the builders (Morgan Ashurst plc) for the quality of their workmanship, Mary Pearson, head of the Bluecoat Children's Centre in Torrington, and Helen Hallam, also of the Bluecoat Centre, who is responsible for managing the Holsworthy Centre.

Then two celebratory cakes were cut and enjoyed by the visiting dignitaries, staff, parents and children, who were given an opportunity to take a close look at a fire engine from Holsworthy Fire and Rescue which had turned up for the occasion.