WHETHER it’s having a drink at their local pub or tucking in to fish and chips, members of Yarnton Senior Folks Club try to ensure life is never dull.

The club celebrated a half-century of supporting the older generation with a special party at the village hall last Thursday.

Members hold bi-weekly meetings to meet new friends and play bingo and cards.

Leading the club is Josie Green, who has been a member since 1995 and started as chairwoman two years later.

The 81-year-old said: “I’ve seen a lot of people come and go. It’s a club that has changed a bit here and there with what we do.

“It can be difficult for people living in Yarnton because they cannot get to Kidlington where a lot of activities for older people take place.

“There’s a good gender balance. We have a lot of men as well as women, which a lot of clubs don’t have.”

According to the Wolvercote resident the club started in 1966 when a group of older people used to meet regularly at Yarnton’s Royal British Legion base. Part of her work – assisted by husband Chris – involves organising the club’s entertainment, including day trips out.

She said: “When I first went they used to give regular talks, but it was hard because some people didn’t like them and stopped turning up.

“Now a lot of people want to go somewhere and do their own thing, like go shopping, so it is harder to organise.

“It does mean that people can pay to catch the bus, but when we get there they can spend money on what they like. I like going out, and I enjoy the Christmas lunches.”

Previous coach destinations have included Coventry and Monmouth.

The event was also an excuse to celebrate the birthday of one of the club’s longest-serving members.

Muriel Williams, who turned 90 last month, was serenaded with a rendition of Happy Birthday.

The Woodstock resident said: “This was a wonderful surprise and very kind. It’s always been a lovely club.”

The club holds its AGM next week and meets every other Thursday at the village hall in the Paddocks. Meetings are from 2pm to 4pm.

For more information call Mrs Green on 01865 375644.