A RECRUITMENT specialist is looking to keep giving back to the community after commemorating a double bill of milestones.

Active Staff employment agency, previously based in Winchester Street, moved to a new office in the High Street earlier this year and the official opening took place on Wednesday, coinciding with the company’s 20th anniversary celebrations.

Now, the recruiter is hoping to use its now location to not only improve its core service, but also offer extra benefits beyond traditional recruitment.

Company director Lisa Armstrong said: “Part of the benefit of moving here is we can expand, not only as a traditional recruiter, but we can expand our service further to help local people and offer something that others can’t offer.”

Active Staff marked the anniversary with a party in Twenty5 ice cream parlour — above which the company’s new office is based.

The new facilities stretch over two floors and include an additional boardroom which will host multiple events throughout the year.

Lisa added: “By having the boardroom we are able to offer training and seminars to work alongside other groups to enhance the local population.”

“The board room enables us to provide that training and it can also be hired by local businesses.”

The boardroom has already hosted a health and wellbeing seminar, with further events planned to run once a month.

Active Staff also provide training solutions to ‘unskilled’ workers in the SP10 area, helping them achieve opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be able to.

“After 20 years in business we would like to thank all our clients and those who supported us over the years, and this is our way of giving back.”

Active Staff’s work with groups in the community was already on display during Wednesday’s celebrations as various businesses banded together to make the day a success.

“Special thanks go to Tip Top Balloons, the Travelling Cup Cake, Twenty5, Choices Hire and Janet Mary florists,” said Lisa.

Speaking after the anniversary celebrations, managing director Graham White added his own thanks and praise.

He said: "Firstly I am very proud of our team. Every member of staff works hard and we are lucky to have such a happy ship.

"Lisa has grown Active Staff into an enviable position and I will always be grateful for what she has given and for the years ahead.

"My huge thanks also go to our clients and temporary workers, past and present. Without their loyal support we could never have reached 20 years and counting."