Big 50 for luncheon club
Entertainers help celebrate milestone achievement made possible by kind volunteers
A LEEK luncheon club has celebrated its 50th anniversary.
St Paul’s Luncheon Club, which is run by dedicated volunteers, held a celebration last week in the Novi Lane premises.
Entertainers were brought in for the milestone event so visitors could enjoy a singing session.
Volunteer Dorothy Bloor has been a volunteer for 35 years.
She said: “The format of the club is still the same after 50 years with members being brought in by voluntary transport if needed. They are then welcomed by a hot meal followed by a raffle and bingo, but most importantly friendship and company.
“The meals have been provided by many different organisations over the years, but now they come from Beresford school which is next door.
“The members attending the club are aged between people in their sixties to one who’s 105 years old.
“Everyone receives a card and a small gift for their birthday, an Easter egg at Easter and a gift at Christmas. A Christmas party is also enjoyed by everyone.”
Head organiser Celia Oakden has been a volunteer for 20 years. She said: “We want to help people by giving them friendship and a cooked meal. We then play bingo which keeps people’s minds active.
“People like the company and we have a laugh. We had to close like everyone else during covid but now we are back.”
Shirley Spender (86) of Leek enjoys the weekly sessions.
Shirley said: “I was a helper for many years, now I attend to enjoy the club. I really love coming here.
“The organisers really look after you and it is nice to come out and enjoy it with other people.”
Mavis Bailey (86) was at the luncheon club when it started. She said: “I have come back today for a visit as I have been invited by the organisers. I was here when the luncheon club started 50 years ago.
“It is really nice for people to get out. I remember when people brought in clothes which were then placed on rails for people to buy.
“I am really pleased that the club has been going for 50 years and it has all depended on the great volunteers.”
The luncheon club currently has vacancies. If you would like to attend the Thursday luncheon club or if you know someone interested please contact Celia Oakden on 01538 384732.