Organisers of an Oxford social club for elderly people are still searching for new premises and appealing for volunteers after a deal to join forces with another club fell through.

The Oxford Irish Society approached organisers of Oxford Pensioners' Club, in Gloucester Green, after reading in the Oxford Mail about its closure through lack of support and funding.

Fred Ingram, who ran the club for 31 years with wife Liz, thought the deal could have been the "miracle" they were hoping for.

But after meeting the society's secretary, Mr Ingram, 91, said it would be unsuitable for the club's elderly members.

He added: "It was a very kind offer and I wish the society all the best, but it wasn't the right arrangement."

Call 01865 242237.