Volunteers needed for club

More volunteers are needed to keep open a well-established Southwell club that allows elderly people to socialise and keep active.

Southwell Falls Club meets at Kings Court every Monday.

It is proving popular with those who have suffered falls and want to improve their mobility, balance and co-ordination through exercise.

At least 18 people attend every week.

Organisers believe the social side is as important as the exercise for members.

Two volunteers who have run the club since it started around nine years ago — Mrs Jean Robinson, of Honing Drive, Southwell, and Mrs Pauline Freeman (83) of Leeks Close, Southwell — are looking to reduce their involvement because of health reasons.

They are looking for more volunteers, especially those with cooking ability and experience, to come forward to help.

Eight people share the different tasks including making tea and coffee, doing quizzes, and cooking a two-course lunch.

Mrs Jenny Hall, a rehabilitation support worker for the NHS, leads armchair exercises to improve mobility and build up strength.

Mrs Freeman said the group was considered essential by those who attend.

She said: “They just love it. For some of them, it is the only time they get out of their homes.

“They will do anything to make sure they get here. That is why we want to keep it going.”

Another volunteer, Mrs Carole Snaith (53) of Gunthorpe, said she enjoyed helping and could tell members enjoyed it.

Mrs Freeman said the club relied on donations from organisations such as the town’s Rotary, Masons and Lions clubs; volunteers to cook the food, and the free hire of Kings Court.

Mr Ted Evans (78) of Appletree Close, Southwell, has attended the club for two years.

He said: “We have a good group of volunteers who provide for us really well. They are exceptional and work really hard.”

Mr Evans said members had much in common including age and problems with balance.

He said many relied heavily on the club.

Mrs Joan Wilson (92) of Monkton Drive, Southwell, has been a member for around five years and said she loved going to see everybody.

She said the volunteers were friendly and worked very hard.

Anyone wanting more information should contact Mrs Freeman on 01636 815639.