OKEHAMPTON'S Ockment Centre is 'taking the first step in a new phase in its history' following the departure of its long-serving manager.

Lindsey Svensson stepped down from her role as manager on September 27, having joined the centre as an administrative assistant in 1998. As centre manager she played a pivotal role in the centre's recent successes.

Judy Pride, chair of the centre's trustees, said: 'Lindsey leaves an incredible legacy here at the Ockment Centre. When she came here, the centre was hardly used. In the years she has been here, she has taken it to another level, making the Ockment Centre central to so many activities and elements of life in Okehampton.

'She leaves a great legacy to build on, and the centre is now taking the first step in in a new phase in its history.

'We have a number of projects lined up, including new windows for our hall. We have plans for new events, some of which are new and some we have not done here at the centre for a long time. '

In Lindsey's tenure, the centre has navigated financial perils and proved a crucial community hub for a number of people. Among the facilities housed at the centre are the Okehampton branch of the Citizens' Advice Bureau, the job centre, and the weekly work club.

Following the employment crisis in 2011 when Polestar and Robert Wiseman Dairies closed, many people went to the centre for advice. A work club was set up in response to the factory closures, and still helps many people get back into employment.

That community-centred focus is key to the centre in the future. Despite constantly battling rising energy bills, building maintenance costs and finding revenue streams, the trustees intend to keep the Ockment Centre at the heart of the Okehampton community.

'We have a great team at the centre,' said Judy Pride. 'Money is very, very tight but with the trustees supporting the staff on an ad hoc basis, we hope to share out Lindsey's previous responsibilities and keep the momentum here.'