A BLIND club that has been running for more than 60 years is urging more people to join it.

The Harwich and Dovercourt Blind Club was formed in 1948 by the town’s Rotary Club wives and those associated, including with the Inner Wheel club.

The once-thriving club, designed to provide a social place for members to meet, has now dwindled to around 20 members.

Committee member Pat Cory, said the club is important for those who might only otherwise see a home help visitor or carer.

“We have a break over the summer and they don’t really want to go back [to their homes without the club],” she said.

The club meets weekly at Parkeston Railway Club where it alternates between having a general get together and playing bowls.

Speakers or entertainers also attend.

The club has embarked on various trips including to Felixstowe, Southend and Maldon, to name just a few.

It is not known exactly why the club was started but it is thought there was probably a considerable need for something for disabled people to do in the area at the time.

Fortunately, medical advances mean there are fewer people who are visually impaired today and more gadgets mean those who are, can be more capable of taking care of themselves.

Eye sight problems can be spotted earlier and there is a greater awareness of diabetes, which can cause blindness.

Committee member Marion Reeves said: “We like to think fewer people are diagnosed but there are still some people out there who would maybe benefit from us and the contact from others.”

“Come and have a go, see what we do and come and join us,” she added.

If you have transport issues, call the club to find out how it may be able to help.

Members are encouraged from Harwich and Dovercourt and its surrounding parishes and should be registered blind or partially sighted.

To find out more, call Jean Menzies on 01255 502804.