A public thank you has come from the committee of Young at Heart after the managers of The Clarence pub in Towngate, Newsome came to their rescue.
Since 2005, Young at Heart, which supports pensioners in Newsome and the surrounding area, has met at Newsome Working Men’s Club, which provided a safe and happy meeting place.
Kath Stewart, of South Crosland, who helped set up the group in 2004, said: “They have all been so worried that their beloved club, which has helped so many people overcome loneliness and bereavement, would have to fold and it speaks volumes that all these volunteers, who are all pensioners, have been helped out at the last minute.”
In a letter to the Examiner, Mary Chambers, Joan Salt, Pat Plowman and Irene Kaye, of Young at Heart, said: “We ran monthly socials, exercise classes and trips and most of all had fun, bringing people together, many of whom were lonely and isolated.
“Imagine our shock when Newsome Working Men’s Club had to close, (for financial reasons).
“We searched everywhere to find somewhere to meet and had nearly given up hope — we’d even planned a farewell party — when friends suggested The Clarence, just round the corner on Towngate, Newsome.
“We’ve been given a very warm welcome by Maria and Samantha, who couldn’t have been more helpful. We met for our first social, which was a great success. A big thank you to The Clarence.”
