THE Winsford Centre, at Halwill Junction, took part in the UK's national open day event, run by English Heritage, on Saturday, September 10, when members of the public were welcomed to visit for free.

The centre, formerly the Winsford Cottage Hospital, was designed by renowned architect C F A Voysey.

The 111-year-old former Winsford Cottage Hospital is a unique product of the arts and crafts movement. Its national significance is recognised by its Grade II* listing. Commissioned in 1899 by a local benefactress as a gift to the parishes of North Devon, it is the only building designed by Voysey in public ownership.

It is now owned by The Winsford Trust and known as The Winsford Centre. It remains almost wholly as Voysey conceived it with many of his trademark features still in place.

For a round-up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.