AN OAPs’ club in New Marston could shut unless a replacement secretary is found.

Pat Mabbutt is looking for someone else to take on the reins of The New Marston 50-Plus Club.

The Kennington resident helped form the club in 1998 to provide a much-needed meeting point for the community’s OAPs.

But Mrs Mabbutt, who is in her 70s, said: “I love this club and the many wonderful people who belong to it.

“But after 15 years I am tired and need to step back and pass my duties on.”

She added: “I have set a leaving date of December 19 and am just hoping someone comes forward in time.

“My greatest fear is the club will close. But I’m just praying it won’t.”

The club meets every Thursday from 2.15pm to 4.15pm at the Pastoral Centre in Jack Straw’s Lane, New Marston.

Members enjoy weekly speakers or musical performances with a chat and a cup of tea. For some it is the only time they leave their home each week.

Mrs Mabbutt added: “I am pleased to say that a lady called Poppy Hughes has agreed to take on half of my job already – the secretarial side.

“But we still need someone to take over the pastoral side, which involves coming in each week before club, putting out tables and chairs, making sure new members know where the facilities are and generally making sure everyone is comfortable and happy. It’s not a difficult part of the job and I have loved doing it, but the job and our members need someone who likes older people to make that commitment, and I’m just hoping someone will read this and volunteer.”

Club chairman Bette Martin, 91, of New Marston, said: “The thought of Pat leaving is terrible. “She has gone far beyond what has been required of her over the years, even down to making members beautiful birthday cards.

“But while no one can probably replace her, we are desperately hoping that someone will offer their help. This club is vital for so many of its members. We all look forward to coming to club and it simply mustn’t fold.”