Pedmore Men’s Club opened its 50th Anniversary year on September 22 with a talk by former newspaper editor John Butterworth – former editor of the Black Country Bugle.

Some 50 members found the evening both informative and very entertaining.

The club meets on the fourth Thursday of the month from September to May in the pavilion at Pedmore Cricket Club for talks on a wide variety of subjects and to socialise, of course.

The club holds a raffle at its meeting and social events whose proceeds are donated annually to charitable organisations chosen by members. Over the years good causes have benefitted by over £20000. To mark the 50-year landmark, the raffle funds raised in 2016-2017 will be donated to Mary Stevens Hospice to purchase a significant item of lasting value to that much-loved organisation.

Another part of the 50th Anniversary celebrations will be a dinner at the Granary restaurant in Shenstone on April 27. Current members would very much like to hear from former members and widows of former members who would like to join them at the Granary to renew acquaintance and reminisce in a relaxed atmosphere. If you were once a member of the club or if your late husband was and you would like to join in the celebration, contact the chairman, Roy Hedley, on 01562 884563 or any committee member.