IPSWICH Building Society has celebrated the opening of a new agency in Newmarket with a fun community party.

Local people were entertained by magician Matthew Le Mottee, face painting from Castle Capers and free food tastings, including local sausages from Musks and Powters and Suffolk Gold cheese.

Guests were also welcomed into the new agency by society mascot Pound the Hound who was on hand to great children and families.

The opening of the agency at Balmforth Estate Agents in Rous Road follows a partnership between the firm and the society in the launch of an agency in Mildenhall last year.

Michelle Monck, general manager, marketing, at Ipswich Building Societ,y said: “We had a great time at our opening celebration event and it was lovely to speak to local people about the range of services that we can offer. When many others are closing branches, we are proud to be extending our network. Newmarket is a prominent Suffolk town and we are looking forward to serving local residents.”

Robert Lewis, managing director of Balmforths Estate Agents, added: “We have worked closely with the team from Ipswich Building Society thanks to their agency in our Mildenhall office and we are delighted to be welcoming them to Newmarket. We hope that the new agency will be very successful.”