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A PARLIAMENTARY candidate has joined the fight to save Age Concern Malvern Hills' On the Move' clubs for older people after being contacted by member, Annie Tooke.

Richard Burt, West Worcestershire's Liberal Democrat hopeful, attended a fortnightly meeting at Strensham Village Hall and heard of concerns for the future funding of the seven clubs spread across the Malvern Hills district.

He said: "On the Move clubs provide a lifeline for so many older people who live alone. Some members don't get out of their homes between club meetings and really look forward to lunch and social activities for a few hours once a fortnight.

"Now that Lottery funding has ended, Age Concern is being forced to cut back on staff and hours in order to survive for the coming year. Club members have also been asked to pay £7.50 instead of £4.50 for each day."

As mentioned previously in the Malvern Gazette, Age Concern needs to raise £10,000 just to keep the clubs going at a reduced level or they will be forced to close on August 1 next year.

"There are seven clubs in total and over forty volunteers help with lunches, trips and activities for around 150 club members," added Mr Burt.

"It is hard enough to make ends meet now, but it would be a tragedy if the clubs were forced to close."

The Lib Dem candidate is collecting signatures for a petition organised by club member, Annie Tooke, from Ryall. He has also had talks with Age Concern Malvern Hills' chief executive, George Waugh, to try to find alternative funding.

He added: "Parish councils are being asked to help out by waiving or reducing hire fees for halls. Some have already responded positively and other local fundraising activities have been organised. I know that Age Concern will leave no stone unturned to find alternative funding, and I urge anyone who can help to contact George Waugh on 01684 899003."

9:40am Friday 31st August 2007

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