A tight-knit charity has celebrated 50 years of helping people with complex medical conditions.

Shine Surrey had an anniversary tea party in Banstead Village on Sunday and supports people from across Surrey and parts of London.

The charity formed in 1965 to help babies whose spines have not developed properly or have a build-up of fluid on the brain.

At the time little was known about living with the diseases, called spina bifida and hydrocephalus, and parents could not turn to the internet.

Sutton resident Liz Tadd, chairman at Shine Surrey, said: "Since our formation in 1965, improved medical knowledge and care have significantly increased the quality of life for those with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.

Surrey Comet:

Liz Tadd, Sarah Smith, Angela Bailey, Andrew Tadd and Linda Corbett

"We now support people in their 60s as well as families with young children born with spina bifida or, increasingly, with hydrocephalus.

"It is therefore vital that Shine Surrey continues to grow and meet the needs of everyone locally with these conditions both now and in the future."

A small group of volunteers run the charity on a shoestring and held a party at the Banstead Centre to mark the anniversary.

Shine Surrey brings people together and helps to pay for support development workers as well as equipment and home adaptations for patients.

Ms Tadd said: "I am delighted to report that at its half century, the charity is in good shape and our party is a celebration of this important milestone."

It was originally called New Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus but later changed its name to Surrey ASBAH and then Shine Surrey.

The charity relies on donations and is keen for new volunteers to come forward.

If you know anyone with spina bifida and hydrocephalus in the area or would like to help visit www.shinesurrey.org.uk