Friendship always on offer at Marton club

(from left)Dawn Evans, Jean Turner and Tori Ruscoe.

It was games day at the friendship club in Marton last Friday.

In its own small hall near the main shopping centre, seniors from Marton gather and enjoy each other's company every week.

President Wendy Lees said she is very proud of the club because everyone cares about each other.

Last week the trestle tables were covered frith hames ranging from Snakes and Ladders to Ludo, Monopoly to playing cards.

Popular member Dawn Evans was celebrating her 92nd birthday.

President Wendy Lees said you would never think it by looking at Dawn.

"She's so spry and young looking.''

Lees said the worst time for members was winter, when most of them warmed their houses up and then never left home for days, even weeks.

"They would be totally alone and that's not good at all."

The Marton Friendship Club, which started more than 50 years ago, attracts around 40 eager members every week, Wendy said.

Every Friday there is live entertainment and a tasty afternoon tea.

Among the men is 83-year-old Les Collis who crafts handmade rugs which are the pride of the club, Lees said.

"Our Christmas raffle, which we sold around town, featured a small rug made by Les, she said.

At the end of the month is the Crafts+alive interactive show in Marton and everyone has encouraged Les to set up a stall there.

His work is superb, said Lee.

Collis, who designs his own patterns and chooses his own colours, said he's keen on being part of the show.

Lee said club members were very proud of Collis.