A club providing veterans with much-needed social opportunities is appealing for support in the face of dwindling numbers.

The SSAFA London Lunch Club, headed by Armed Forces charity, runs weekly at the Hornchurch Royal British Legion, but there are not enough volunteers to transport housebound veterans, and membership has decreased by about half, due to the deaths of many members over the winter months.

To avoid closure, the club needs volunteers, and prospective members, to come forward.

All veterans, along with any family and friends, are welcome to attend, though most are over 60.

The lunches, including activities, run from noon-2pm on Wednesdays, with membership £7.50 a year.

Head of community fundraising at SSAFA Jim Morrison said: “We are incredibly grateful to the support of volunteers that keep the SSAFA London Lunch Club up and running and allowing us to provide vital support to veterans in the area.

“If you or someone you know would benefit from attending or have a few spare hours to help volunteer on a Wednesday, we would urge you to get in touch.”

Call 01708 755060 or email paula.ssafalondonne@gmail.com.