More than 50 people met for a special cream tea at Dorchester Community Hall in Poundbury to launch a new tea club.

Attendees were mostly the elderly within the community who benefit from the services of Age UK.

They raised a tea cup to Dorset Tea's ‘Communi-Tea’ programme, which has a commitment to supporting local Dorset charities and causes.

The event, which was declared a huge success, was held to launch a new ‘Tea Club’ initiative in Weymouth, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation in Dorset.

With a successful Dorchester drop in Coffee Club, held every Thursday at the YMCA in Dorchester from 10.30am to 12pm, Wimborne firm Dorset Tea officially donated funds to support a new 'Tea Club' in Weymouth, which will be held on a weekly basis at the Salvation Army from early November, and tickets alongside a raffle raised further funds (nearly £300).

Guests also enjoyed a singalong with 'Melodies for Memories'.

Nigel Bundy, chairman of Age UK North, South & West Dorset, said: "Although we are out of Covid restrictions, for many people there is still loneliness and isolation.

"People think that Dorset doesn't get affected by it, but it's difficult for people to go by themselves to meet people.

"What we are trying to do is encourage people to come and join these types of events - getting you out once a week, somewhere to meet people and make new friends - and have a nice cup of tea!"

Rachel Weiss, of Age UK, North, South and West Dorset, said: “Following the Covid-19 pandemic, many older people in our communities felt isolated and lonely.

"These groups are so important for tackling loneliness, but also where people can go to find the support they need. This funding will help us to set up further groups, creating a sociable environment for people to get together and chat, as well as providing access to local services, games and more.

“In homage to Dorset Tea, the new ‘Tea Club’ will provide the same wonderful warm atmosphere with plenty of tea (and coffee!) and lots of laughs.”

The tea club will feature regular games sessions, including skittles and darts, host quizzes, sing-a-longs and musical bingo.

To find out more about the Weymouth weekly tea club, call Age UK on 01305 269444.