A YATE-based support group helping children in broken families to stay in contact with both parents is appealing for volunteers.

The South Gloucestershire Child Contact Centre provides a safe and neutral venue for children to meet up with a parent or family member they might otherwise be unable to see because of a family break-up.

In circumstances when trust between two parties has completely broken down, the contact centre offers a suitable facility where members can try to rebuild their family.

The centre is used by about 12 families twice a month.

Chairman of the centre's management committee, Patrick Gent, said: "We provide a professional and valuable service to the community and are part of the National Association of Child Care Centres.

"All of what we have achieved has only been possible with the valuable help of our team of committed, enthusiastic and caring volunteers.

"But we need more volunteers to ensure the service runs smoothly and much needed contact between parents and children is not delayed."

Families are referred to the contact centre often by their solicitors, the courts or officers from The Family Court Advisory Service.

Volunteers are on a rota basis, helping out on average six days a year.

Mr Gent said: "The volunteers' work is rewarding and can lead to some amazing success stories.

"We have had cases where split apart couples have re-established their relationship and brought their families back together.

"It may be that with the time for New Year resolutions approaching, some people might wish to help these children who at the moment do not have contact with their absent parent and contribute to this most worthwhile project."

Anyone who thinks they can help should call the centre on 01452 721500.