A DAY centre for elderly people will stay open – but only for three days a week.

Welwyn Hatfield Council cabinet members agreed on Tuesday to keep Douglas Tilbe House in WGC open, albeit on a reduced basis.

Councillors once again agreed to give an additional �30,000 in funding to Age UK Hertfordshire, which will continue to manage the centre on the council’s behalf.

As expected, kitchen services at the Hall Grove centre will close, although lunches will be delivered to the centre, and can be provided for a charge.

Entertainment and activities will continue to be organised on the days the centre is open.

And free transport will be provided for Douglas Tilbe regulars to the Jim McDonald Centre or Friendship House luncheon clubs in Hatfield.

Councillor Tony Kingsbury, Executive Member for Leisure and Community, said: “Douglas Tilbe House is a very popular service and we are delighted to be able to continue this worthwhile facility. While it is a difficult time with necessary budget cuts, we have worked hard to be able to keep Douglas Tilbe House open.”

Age UK Hertfordshire’s chief executive Marion Birch said: “I would like to thank all our supporters and the councillors of Welwyn Hatfield for working to secure a future for Douglas Tilbe House during this period of uncertainty.”