I had a lovely time last Friday when I went along to a meeting of Patcham Companions (pictured).

Patcham Companions meets at Patcham Community Centre on Friday afternoons and is an excellent opportunity for local residents to meet informally and make new friends.

It holds an impressive collection of board games and, alongside the regular tea and biscuits, occasionally hosts a visiting speaker or entertainment as well as special teas four times a year.

Patcham Companions generally caters for the 50+ age group.

Although some are couples, many of those who attend come along on their own and value the opportunity to catch up with others.

The group is open to new members and the phone number is on the contacts page of the Patcham Community Centre website - www.patchamcommunitycentre.org.uk.