The founders and volunteers of local charity Pete’s Dragons were celebrating this weekend as they marked the opening of their newly renovated premises in Exmouth.
Founded by Alison Hill after the tragic death of her brother Pete, Pete’s Dragons offers support to those experiencing suicide loss across Devon.
The new premises, which were officially opened by local MP Hugo Swire on Friday 10 June, contain an office and treatment rooms on the ground floor and a three bedroomed self-contained holiday home on the first and second floors. For most of the year this apartment will be available, free of charge, to the charity’s beneficiaries for respite.
The renovation of the building has been a community effort, with businesses and organisations from across East Devon helping with the project.
Commenting after officially opening the new building and being given a tour of the premises, Hugo Swire said:
‘Pete’s Dragons is an inspirational charity and I pay tribute to Alison and her exceptional team. Ensuring that those who have lost someone to suicide have the appropriate support is so important which is why the work that Pete’s Dragons carries out is absolutely vital’.
Founder Alison Hill commented:
‘The Pete's Dragons team were honoured that Hugo took the time to come and open our new building from which our services will operate. We are devoted to raising awareness in respect of suicide and the issues surrounding it and we are grateful to Hugo for also showing his commitment to this.’