THE opening night of a new service for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Salisbury met with huge success on Thursday.

Charity Rainbow Rooms UK held an advice night and social event at The Vestry to provide support for LGBT people.

Founder Will Clark said: “It was very well supported. We had lots of LGBT people who came along and brought their straight friends with them, which is what we wanted.

“The police and local businesses were so supportive, which was fantastic. It was a really good evening.”

The charity eventually hopes to provide a centre in Salisbury to offer advice, support and a safe place to go for all, regardless of sexuality, but first needs to raise £450,000 in funding to get the project up and running.

The idea is not just to provide a social centre but also to provide sexual health advice and support for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people of all ages and also for their friends and families in an environment where they can feel secure.

In the meantime there will be regular events at the Vestry every Thursday night.

Under 18s will not be permitted to stay for the later part of the event, but can get advice beforehand.

For more details visit www.rainbowroomsuk.co.uk, call 01722 325122 or email info.rruk@btconnect.com.