An Aldenham charity has celebrated 50 years helping people with learning disabilities.

A day of events was held on Wednesday, July 3 by the Delrow Community, which is part of the Camphill Village Trust charity.

The Hilfield Lane-based organisation helps those with mental health problems, learning disabilities and other special needs to lead an independent life.

Michael Green, Delrow Community service manager and a trustee of the Camphill Village Trust, said: "It was absolutely wonderful, a fantastic day."

The event started with speeches and residents and staff reminiscing about the past fifty years.

Those who benefited from its services also gave their thanks.

Lunch was provided by the Hare Krishna community at Bhaktivedanta Manor, in Letchmore Heath, which is on a neighbouring site.

Hertsmere’s mayor, Councillor Paul Morris, planted a tree to celebrate the occasion and residents and staff put on a performance of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Mr Green, who has lived as part of the community for the past 16 years, said he got involved with the organisation because he was interested in community and wanted to work with vulnerable people.

He said: "I grew up in the tail end of the hippy era, so the two things came together."

He said the Delrow Community provided "respect, dignity, choice and control" for people in their own lives.

Commenting on the future, he said: "We look forward to the next fifty years."