A Mitcham day centre opened by the wife of former Prime Minister Harold Wilson has closed its doors for the last time.
 

The Cumberland Day Centre, in Whitford Gardens, will close after Merton Council withdrew its funding.
 

Opened in 1996 by Lady Mary Wilson, widow of the former Prime Minister, the Cumberland served Merton’s residents as a day centre for those suffering with dementia.
 

Edward Doran, whose mother was looked after during the latter stages of dementia by staff from the Cumberland, said: “Its closure leaves a real void in the lives of those suffering with dementia and their carers. Merton will be the poorer without it.”
 

As well as day centre facilities, its staff also offered care in the community, organised by Merton Mind, which has also had its funding withdrawn.
 

The building is to become an information hub run by the Alzheimer’s Society.
 

The new centre will provide support sessions, information, counselling and advice as well as workshops and a cafe.