Ann Widdecombe congratulates the efforts of a community health centre during a recent visit.

The former politician visited Seachange in Budleigh Salterton on October 2 to explore their health and wellbeing initiatives.

Ms Widdecombe met with various clients, staff members, and volunteers, all of whom contributed to the centre's wide-ranging programmes, classes, workshops, and services.

At the Memory Café, she engaged with both carers and clients living with dementia, learning how Seachange supports them.

She also participated in the Singing for Wellbeing class, where her enthusiasm was matched by the participants.

During her tour, Ms Widdecombe stopped by the gym and hopped on an exercise bike, demonstrating that age is no restriction to fitness.

The visit highlighted Seachange's extensive offerings to the community, which are maintained without any direct government funding, relying instead on donations and grants.

Ms Widdecombe said: "It’s wonderful to see that Seachange is fostering a healthy population through early intervention and education from such professional team members, and it’s heartening to see so many volunteers contributing their time.

"Best of all, it’s fantastic that so many local people are taking advantage of all that Seachange offers – well done to all."

Marc Jobson, head of Seachange, said:

“Our next challenge will be to ensure Seachange receives support to enable this unique organisation to continue providing the community with the diverse range of classes and assistance.

"We have a host of exciting initiatives coming up, and encourage everyone to check our website https://www.seachangedevon.org/ and become involved.”

Wellbeing co-ordinator Sarah Forde extended her gratitude to Ms Widdecombe for her visit.

Ann Widdecombe served as Minister of State for Prisons in John Major's government and later served in the shadow cabinet.

After politics, she gained fame by taking part in various TV shows.

Ms Widdecombe is currently part of Reform UK's team.

Seachange provides a wide variety of services, including a memory café, a walking group, a library, gym and exercise classes, swimming, health walks, a drop-in clinic, and a café.

For more information visit their website.