SAUGHALL FRIDAY CLUB
Friday 16 January 2004 saw the 10th anniversary of the
formation of Saughall’s swinging Friday Club, which was celebrated by a
gourmet lunch and combined with Mary Stuart’s birthday party. The team of
cordon bleu chefs excelled yet again with roast pork and all the trimmings
followed by a magnificent summer fruits cheese cake and ice cream! Mary
Stuart, a long time member, cut her cake to the accompaniment of the
keyboard of maestro George Dakin who played brilliantly throughout the
festivities. An excellent time was had by all.
Members are driven from and to their homes by volunteer drivers and there
are at least two carers on hand during the day. Hot lunch is provided by a
team of volunteer cordon bleu chefs who maintain an extremely high standard
of cuisine, including a full Christmas Dinner and a party for each member’s
birthday. Activities during the day are informal; members do as they wish.
Dozing off is not unknown! Occasional speakers attend, games are played and
quizzes are held. Outings are arranged to venues suggested by members and
transport is often provided using the Ellesmere Port and Neston Community
Transport minibuses with volunteer drivers.
The Friday Club was formed in 1993 when
under the guidance of Social Services, village volunteers formed the
Club with the object of benefiting older residents living alone or with
a relative or carer. Modern living often means that people can easily
become separated from relatives and friends and have little or no
contact with those around them. One day out per week would therefore
benefit both member and carer.It
was decided that the Club would meet each Friday between 10.30 and 3.30
and have a good hot meal cooked on the premises. The venue was provided
by the Methodist minister and necessary modifications made to the hall
including the provision of a kitchen. Following much hard work by
volunteers and Social Services the club first opened its doors in 1994.
The Friday Club relies heavily on the Methodist Church Hall and Members are eagerly looking forward to the enhanced facilities which will become available once the rebuilding is complete.
There is always a need for more volunteers as Cooks, Carers and Drivers.
Anyone interested in joining The Friday Club themselves or for a friend or relative or as a volunteer should please contact the Secretary, Keith Stinson on 01244 880607. email Keith
