THE YMCA held an open day to show how a country house in Dorset has developed into a centre for retreats, groups and family breaks.

Sandyholme in Studland was once part of the Bankes Estate and was taken over by the Berans family in the late 19th century.

When Alexander Berans died in 1959, at the age of 94, the estate was sold to a local solicitor, who converted it into a hostel and gave it its current name. He intended it as a cheap holiday home for ministers and missionaries, with visiting families catering for themselves and helping with grass-cutitng and window washing.

In those days, regular visitors included the Christian songwriter Graham Kendrick.

The hostel was gifted in 1987 to the Shaftesbury Society, who ran it mainly a as a holiday retreat to staff. The society later passed it to the YMCA, which is dedicated to helping young people develop their potential in mind, body and spirit, in line with its Christian values.

Churches come to the house at low cost to run their own programmes, with a couple of days for private prayer, weekends away, leadership meetings and youth groups. A YMCA chaplain can be on hand for pastoral support and BIble sessions and workshops.

In the last few years, guests have included schools from as far afield as the US.

The recent open day showed the facilities, including 32 beds, four kitchens, two bathrooms, three shower rooms, a lounge, dining room and conservatory.

Local church leader David Craig said: “I wanted somewhere for us to meet which would be relaxing, involve as little travel as possible and be inexpensive. Sandyholme met all the requirements.”

More than 50 people enjoyed afternoon tea in the gardens at the open day, with local businesses donating the tea. Church groups, charities, social services, walkers and locals all took part and many enjoyed conducted tours of the house.

Information about Sandyholme is available by emailing sandyholme@bournemouthymca.org.uk