Children’s charity Barnardo’s celebrated the completion of its new head office building in Barkingside with a “topping out” ceremony on Tuesday (24).

The practice marks a milestone in construction and traditionally ensures good fortune for a building.

Charity chief executive Anne Marie Carrie was joined by construction representatives and charity workers for the ceremony.

She laid a commemorative brick on the building’s third floor with staff competition winner Sandra Griffiths.

Barnardo’s has been based in Barkingside for nearly 140 years, since founder Thomas Barnardo opened the Girls’ Village Home’ for 1,500 children.

The new building, in Tanners Lane, will replace 1960s block currently in use.

Tony Cripps, Barnardo’s director of property and facilities management, said the old offices had reached “the end of their useful life”.

He added: “This is an exciting time and the new premises will enhance the local area as well as ensure we remain an attractive local employer.”

The new offices are due to open next summer after the structure is fully fitted out.

The v-shaped, three-storey, 50ft high building will be environmentally-friendly and have disabled access.

The project will be funded by the development of new homes on the site.