A popular church group is celebrating 40 years of social events and helping the community.

Malvern Ladies Circle, based at the United Reformed Church in Malvern Link, was set up to provide a social group for women in the congregation.

Forty years later, it is still going strong and attracting as many members as it did in its early days.

Margery Clare has been a faithful member of the group for 33 years and chairman for 32.

"We're like an outreach group for women in the area who are lonely or just want a group to socialise with," she said.

"Though we belong to the church, members don't have to be church-goers, we welcome anyone."

The group meets twice a month on a Wednesday evening and organises events such as guest speakers, film shows and practical demonstrations. Its September to June season is rounded off with an annual outing to a local attraction.

"We currently have 44 members," said Mrs Clare. "Two ladies, Elizabeth Blake and Pam Cates, have been with us from the start.

"We've a very good organising committee and get a lot of support from the community."

The group frequently raises funds for the church and was heavily involved in raising enough money to buy the building on Worcester Road at the end of last year.

"I really enjoy being in the group," said Mrs Clare. "I like helping people and they support me as well as I support them.

"A lot of men are involved with the group as well and they're welcome, we aren't sexist."

The group celebrated the landmark with a dinner at the Foley Arms Hotel on Wednesday (September 22).