A social group that thrives on having fun marked its 25th anniversary with past and present volunteers and friends.

The Bridport Social Group for the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust provides a day out for clients with a hot meal and activities.

People can talk freely in a relaxing environment and to the volunteers in confidence, and the group aims to provide a break for carers and company for those who are otherwise isolated.

Members, friends, past and present volunteers and staff joined in the celebration at Bridport Community Hospital last Thursday, where the group holds its weekly meetings.

Celebrations included a special lunch, a picture slideshow looking back over the years of the club and a 25th anniversary cake made especially for the occasion by Sue Rousell, manager at Oh Crumbs Café in Bridport.

Lyn Goward, manager of the group for the last 13 years on behalf of the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust, said the group had thrived and developed over the years.

She added: “I feel incredibly happy to mark this 25th year celebration and it’s great to celebrate with people who have been here since the beginning back in 1989.

“The group gives people a chance to meet up with their friends, which is brilliant as so many of them live on their own.

“We have a group of about 15 volunteers who work so hard and give up their free time to provide transport and stay and help, so a massive thank you must go to them and to everyone who has helped us over the years.

“Activities include quizzes, raffles, lunch, film shows and guest speakers – and the highlight for me is being involved with a wonderful group of people who are all friends, as well as being volunteers and patients. We’re here to have a good time and have fun most of all.”

Bouquets were also presented to two group members, Joan Hedger and Jean Sexton, who have been part of the group since the beginning.

Mrs Hedger said: “This is very much a happy club and I’m sure it helps people; our leader Lyn makes everyone feel so happy and welcome.

“I can still remember our first ever meeting, which was at Port Bredy hospital, and we have been going ever since.”

Ian Cabble, group volunteer for five years and Weldmar employee, also joined in the celebrations last Thursday.

He said: “My first wife died of breast cancer and I got involved with the group because I wanted to do something that would help others.

“It’s amazing that the group has been together for so long.

“It is like one big family.”