A cancer support centre has welcomed back its founder as it unveils a new team.

The Hummingbird Centre, based in Launton, near Bicester, has unveiled its new look team which includes several key staff changes.

Founder Mechelle Harris has returned to lead the team and will focus on volunteer recruitment and fundraising.

She said: “As many people will know I had planned to retire this year, but I have agreed to postpone that to help steer the Hummingbird Centre through this period of restructure and growth to ensure its longevity.

"We have now got a great team in place who I know will improve and expand our services and make sure our guests are getting the best support we can possibly give.”

The new manager and head of the Lymphedema Clinic is former nurse, Zoe Draper.

The Complementary Therapy Team is now led by Kirsty Anders, Sian Harvey is the new counselling coordinator, and the head of the Children’s Team is Kelly Squires.

Ms Draper, who joined the Hummingbird Centre last October to set up the Lymphedema Clinic, said: “This year marks a big birthday for me and I decided I wanted to take on a new professional challenge."

She most recently worked as a ward sister in paediatrics and management at Banbury’s Horton Hospital.

She added: "Working at the Hummingbird Centre is my first role outside of the NHS and I’m so excited to get started as the centre manager.

"I bring a wealth of health, medical and well-being knowledge and experience and really want to share that with the team and board, so we can continue to meet the needs of all our guests.”

The Hummingbird Centre, open Tuesday to Friday between 10am and 4pm, supports people with cancer and their families across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Berkshire.

One of Ms Harris’ main tasks is to recruit more volunteers to the volunteer-led organisation.

She said: “Our volunteers are the backbone of the Hummingbird Centre and they are the ones that make it possible for us to run the many different services and support we do.

"If you have any spare time and feel you would like to join our team please get in touch with Zoe on 01869 244244 who will arrange for us to have a chat.”

The Hummingbird Centre needs volunteers and hopes to hear from complementary therapists who specialise in massage, Yoga, Tai Chi, Sound Bath, Reiki, and Reflexology.

Other volunteer roles include welcoming guests, providing refreshments, and offering help where needed – especially from those with crafting skills.

For further information about the Hummingbird Centre, visit its website.