“IT’S the only place I go where I know I will be safe.”

Those are the words of an elderly user of the Saturday Club, held at the Acorns day centre, which is facing closure if more members do not join.

The Weymouth-based club is run by four volunteers and attracts an average of 20 people every Saturday.

However, the Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Community Rehabilitation Company, who fund the kitchen for the group, have said they have until the end of October to find another 10 to 15 members to go along each week if they are to continue funding it.

The group, which is for people aged over 60, meets each Saturday at the day centre on Grosvenor Road from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

It provides people with an array of entertain-ment and the chance to enjoy a freshly-cooked two-course lunch while socialising with others.

Frank Houghton (right), 96, has attended the group for about six years.

He said: “It's the only place where I can go and meet lots of friends.

“It's so nice here, lots of lovely meals and lovely friends. It's all very well organised and it is much better than just sitting in staring at the same four walls each day.

“It's the only place I go where I know I will be safe because if something does go wrong, they know what to do.”

The group costs each person £8 and an extra £5 if transport is required.

Dave Preston has been volunteering at the club for 23 years.

He said: “I have seen a lot of people come to the club “They are lonely, because of the age they are and the bereave-ments in their life.

“They come in here, have a healthy, hot meal and socialise.

“You ask everyone here and they will say they look forward to coming here each week and it's sad because we are at a real risk of going.”

Helen Wright (above), 96, has gone to the club for 10 years.

She said: “I think so many people, including myself, will miss out. It's a day out for us.

“I come for the company and the food and to just have a good time each week. It makes my weekend.”

For more information about the club, call Melanie McWatters on 01305 767243.