A women's community centre in Bradford has officially opened after three burglaries delayed its launch.

WomenZone, in Hubert Street, off Leeds Road, celebrated the opening with a party and day of activities.

The centre, which has been funded by Sure Start Barkerend and Regen 2000, will provide social, recreational and educational activities for women and children.

The opening of the centre was put back from June after the building was broken into three times in three weeks in May.

Burglars smashed doors and stole new equipment including computers, microwaves and fax machines.

Project co-ordinator Asma Tariq said the thefts cost the charity about £8,500 and staff had been disheartened.

"Psychologically it affects us as well because you don't want to come into the building and be confronted by someone.

"It's a community resource and people should take more ownership of it."

But the success of the centre was celebrated at the launch party, which saw youngsters enjoying activities including face painting and workshops.

Women could have massages, henna painting, hair braiding and facials while businesses in the area hosted stalls.

Councillor Jeanette Sunder-land, leader of Bradford Council's Liberal Democrats group, spoke at the event and Asian singer Laiba Ali travelled from Pakistan to perform.

Mrs Tariq said the centre had already been overwhelmed by interest.

"It has been excellent - we have been inundated with lots of people."

The centre also has a gym and steam room and Mrs Tariq said a temporary ceiling on gym membership had had to be imposed because demand was so great.

It is hoped membership will open again in a few weeks.

"We will also hold classes. There is a great demand for IT and English as a second language," she said.

Other activities will include advice sessions, exercise and physiotherapy, and holiday fun for youngsters.

Mrs Tariq said they were anxious to provide what the community wanted and were pleased with the number of suggestions they had received.

The idea for WomenZone came from consultation with local groups about what they wanted to see in their area.