SOME 100 staff at Help the Aged's London head office faced tough questioning when they took on the challenge of raising funds for a women's refuge in Andover.

Andover Crisis and Support Centre is currently building 18 new rooms and the Help the Aged team raised more than £500 towards the cost of decorating and furnishing one of the rooms at a pub quiz organised by employees.

Quiz organiser Charlotte Palmer said: "We were all keen to volunteer to help the refuge as, in the past, it has provided a great deal of support for older women who have suffered domestic violence.

"Obviously working for Help the Aged, we are all committed to helping projects that support older people. Knowing we have raised enough money to pay for a room was the perfect end to a fun evening."

Andover Crisis and Support Centre manager Yvonne Bradbury said: "The centre was founded in 1975 and thanks to the generosity of the community we have been able to provide a service to the area over the years. We are hoping to reflect this in the new building with input from individuals, organisations, businesses and schools.

"The involvement of Help the Aged is especially welcome in that it recognises that domestic violence affects all ages. A room, which will bear the charity's name, will be a lasting testimony to their employees' support and generous contribution."

The centre is looking for other organisations and companies to sponsor a room. For more information call 01264 366122.