A CLUB run by volunteers that provides lonely and disadvantaged people over the age of 50 with a healthy meal and gentle exercise celebrates its 10th anniversary today.

The Triangle Luncheon Club was founded on February 21, 1995, by Age Concern Worcester & District, YMCA and Ageing Well.

It and meets once a week at the YMCA centre in Henwick Road, St John's, Worcester.

The club's co-founder, Margaret Dixon, who is also secretary and treasurer, said the 30-strong membership is drawn from the local community, with some referrals from Age Concern.

"We cater for all needs, and those in wheelchairs are brought in by Worcester Wheels who pick them up from their home and take them back again," she said.

"Most members can get to the YMCA by walking. Others have lifts in friend's cars.

"Some of the members have been coming for 10 years and several members have been recommended by their friends as they appreciate the service provided."

Celebrations will take place at the group's next weekly meeting tomorrow.

The club's committee includes Joan Akers, from Age Concern Worcester & District, who is the other co-founder, a member of staff from the YMCA and four volunteers.

Before the meal, which is provided by the YMCA's chef and includes a main course and dessert, plus tea and coffee for £2.50, around 12 members take part in gentle exercise to music with a qualified instructor.

"We are grateful for our volunteers who come each week and lay up the tables, serve the meals and do the washing up.

''We have a regular nucleus of five members who do this, but if anyone would like to help us out it would be much appreciated," added Mrs Dixon.