Christmas companions at club

ABOUT 70 people attended a Christmas party at the Henley 60+ social club on Monday.

Members of the club in Greys Road car park enjoyed a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and some wine.

The Yoko Mainwaring Experience played Christmas songs and there was a visit from Father Christmas, who bore an uncanny resemblance to town councillor David Eggleton.

The club offers hot meals for older folk three times a week and bingo twice a week and provides companionship for those who live on their own.

Rosemary Allen, 83, of Mount View Court, has been a member for more than 20 years.

She said: “I come here to eat dinner twice a week. People are so friendly and warm. I have made friends over the years and we all really enjoy ourselves together. I am definitely in the Christmas spirit after today.”

Susan Sinclaire, 73, also of Mount View Court, joined about four years ago when she lost her husband.

“I decided to come here for some company,” she said. “I try to come here every Tuesday.”

Brian Bloundele, 90, of St Mark’s Road, Henley, said the club was like “a second home” to him. “I joined 30 years ago as I don’t like pubs because I don’t drink,” he said. “I think that is what has made me stay healthy.

“I have made strong friends and we all mix together. It makes such a difference to my life.”

Jo Miller, who lives on her own in Nettlebed, joined just over a year ago and appreciates the companionship. She said: “Some of us, including me, tend to be isolated, so it is so important to get that company, especially around this time of year.

“This is a perfect place to have a good dinner. There is always so much to do at the club — they always keep us busy.”

Steve Baldwin, 84, of Highlands Park, Henley, has been attending the club for just over six months since his wife went into a care home. He said: “We have been married just over 62 years. We moved from Somerset to Henley as our family are here and we are getting old. We needed someone to keep an eye on us.

“Now I don’t miss a single event at the club. It has helped me tremendously.”

Walter Good, 97, has been a member of the club for 20 years.

He said: “I moved to Henley to be with my daughter before she passed away from MS.

“I come here for the great company and food. We all have a lot in common and it is good to be around so many people.”

Greta and Brian Cooper joined three years ago when they moved to the area to be closer to family.

Mrs Cooper said: “We joined the club to be a part of the community and to enjoy a good lunch. It is so lovely to be part of something and we come every Monday.”

Co-manager Rebecca Mee said the club was a “lifeline” for many residents. “They all come here to enjoy themselves, the company and their friends,” she said. “Some members don’t speak to anyone at home or talk to anyone on the phone.

“The members need each other as they look forward to seeing each other all week. It would be lovely to do more but we just lack the volunteers.

“We all enjoy putting on events for our members and they all love a party, food and music.

“We try to be accessible, so it costs £25 a year for membership. They all appreciate what we do, which makes the difference.”

Gill Dodds, a town councillor who chairs the club, thanked Mrs Mee and fellow manager Jackie Handley for organising the event and the sponsor Tomalin & Son.

She added: “We had an overflow list as this is such a popular event because it is free to attend.

“Our membership is going from strength to strength, which is great. It is so important that people know we are here.”