THE Speaker at the February meeting of Shobrooke Friendly Club was Mr John Musty, chairman of Age Concern Crediton, who gave an encouraging talk to the members of the club, whose ages are all 60 plus.

At the outset it was stressed that Age Concern Crediton had no connection with Age UK or Help The Aged.

All funds raised are used for the benefit of the residents of Crediton and surrounding areas.

Members were informed that The Lady Mills Centre at Deep Lane, is open four days-a-week, and provides a warm and friendly atmosphere. The smell of hot food being prepared on arrival is a welcome in itself.

Each day of the week caters for peoples’ different needs, and alternative activities.

Members were informed that a “taster” day is available whereby those visiting can decide if their particular needs are catered for.

There are various activities in the afternoons, such as tombola, scrabble, music appreciation, singing, storytelling, etc, all this and company for the day thrown in!

Mr Musty went on to say that volunteers are always needed in the form of drivers to collect those wishing to attend from their homes – and to take them home again at the end of the day.

Carers/helpers are always needed to assist at the Centre, as well as volunteers to visit people in their own homes, for a good chat.

One day each week the Centre provides a valuable help to carers who look after family who are in the early stages of dementia, to provide the family’s carer with a days respite.

It was explained that the Centre is not just a Day Centre, it also provides a house cleaning service at a competitive rate per hour.

Club members had it pointed out to them, that if they didn’t like cutting toe nails, or were unable to cut their own for various reasons, then it was possible to have them clipped on a six-week basis if needed!

It was obvious that much of the work carried out at the Centre enables many to stay in their own homes for longer.

Members were reminded and encouraged to visit the local Age Concern shop to purchase items, and also to donate unwanted items.

Mr Musty’s talk was greatly appreciated, and he was thanked for the information he had given to the members.

The next meeting of Shobrooke Friendly Club is on Wednesday, March 16, at 2.15pm at Shobrooke Village Hall, when Rob and Ruth Waterhouse will give a talk on Managing a Smallholding.

Just a reminder, that Shobrooke Friendly Club is open to all those over the age of 60 years in the Crediton and surrounding areas.

Information on forthcoming outings can be obtained from Mrs Margaret Gale on 01363 773282.

Alan Quick