A charity that works to combat loneliness is inviting older gentlemen to join a new type of social club, writes Paul Hardman.

Southern Befrienders, based in Port Erin, had identified there were older men who would enjoy a regular meet-up with other gentlemen.

A small group of charity members and volunteers meet every second week for a lunchtime pint and toastie in the Station Hotel pub, forming the ’GOLD’ club.

They were encouraged by the charity to come up with a name for the group and came up with this acronym - ’Gentlemen of Leisure Drinking and Dining’.

Southern Befrienders scheme coordinator Debbie Lowe said: ’Men can find it difficult to reach out when they need help.

’The GOLD Club is a fun and informal way for men to connect with other people. It is primarily attended by men but, of course, accompanying ladies would be made very welcome.

’Up to now, the ladies seem happy to let the men get on with it.

’It’s just good for a get-together and a natter, and an excuse to have a pint,’ said retired school caretaker Alex Dawson, aged 77, a regular attendee.

And Roy Jones, 82, who suffers from Parkinson’s disease and cares for his wife who as dementia, says that the club provides a valuable respite and means of getting out of the house, particularly after the lockdown periods which he found ’very difficult’ without the club.

He said the would definitely recommend the club to people, ’especially if you’re on your own’.

As for Peter Archer, 72, who is also a long-time Southern Befrienders volunteer, he told us that the club is a great place to meet new friends.

’And you get to hear that many people’s different stories, about where they come from - and we’re all mixed in together,’ Peter said.

’It’s all about meeting new people and getting to know them.’

He said that particularly at this time of year, it can be easy for people to fall into slumps of depression - and having the routine of a club like this is helpful and ’brings good vibes’.

’And you’ve got to be able to talk, and this is what helps me out,’ he added.

There is no need to book, people can just turn up. Ms Lowe will be there to welcome new members and introduce them to the group, and members pay for their own drink and light lunch.

Ms Lowe added: ’The team at Southern Befrienders know from experience that there are men who may feel isolated due to health or mobility challenges, being recently bereaved, or being the main carer for a loved one and in need of respite.

’Some men just enjoy putting the world to rights with other blokes.’

She added that the Station pub made for a welcoming atmosphere for the club, with pub staff who ’love them and think they’re a great crowd’.

A full list of forthcoming dates is available by phoning Southern Befrienders on 833025 or emailing [email protected].

Members of the ’gold’ club meeting for their christmas dinner