A housing association that helps find homes for vulnerable people is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Harrow Churches Housing Association (HCHA) was founded in 1964 by church members concerned about the living conditions of the elderly in the borough.

The organisation, which works with Harrow Borough Council, held a birthday party at St Barnabas Court in Harrow Weald with the Mayor of Harrow Councillor Ajay Maru among guests.

Chief executive Christopher Holley said: "We were set up fifty years ago by local Harrow citizens concerned with the plight of elderly living in poor accommodation.

"We now have five sheltered schemes in Harrow for elderly and vulnerable people.

"Half a century on, there is still a great need for our services - in fact we are building 28 new flats and expanding services to Harrow residents this year. We're also proud of partnering Harrow Council over the years."

Cllr Maru said: "HCHA has been doing a fantastic job in the last 50 years in sheltered housing in the borough. We hope it continues in partnership with Harrow Council."

The harsh winter of 1962 and 1963 led to members of some churches wanting to provide better housing for those most in need.

This was followed by a fundraising appeal in July of 1963 called 'A Home of Their Own' which led to the formation of the association a year later.

The first homes maintained under the manager-supported sheltered housing structure and since its inception HCHA has bought land and built flats across the area.

Over the years the housing association has grown and expanded to provide homes for young people, those with physical disability, people with HIV and those requiring extra care.

The association has also expanded outside the borders of Harrow and provides housing and support to people in the boroughs of Hounslow and Hillingdon.