AFTER hearing too many stories about lonely people who had no visitors and barely saw or spoke to anyone week after week, the Benarty Events Group decided to take action.

They determined to put something in place, for those who just wanted to have a chat, listen to someone’s story, talk to people their own age and meet old friends.

The result is The Companions Club, which started six weeks ago.

At that first get-together, 15 people turned up. But that's been going up every week as word spreads.

Benarty Events Group chairman, Eddie Easson, said: "We meet every week on Friday in The Benarty Centre at 11am.

"The numbers have been growing every week since, on Friday past we had over 50.

“We try to provide light entertainment for our visitors, normally a singer and sometimes a speaker. "Benarty Primary School came and sang and recited poems.

"We had Sarah Scobie’s Highland Dancers this week and they were brilliant.”

He said the club, aimed at the older generation, had brought a lot of enjoyment including a celebration of Robert Burns with John Gilfillan, Harry Anderson and songstress Lorna Gallagher, and a Valentine's Day event with Amy Murray supplying the costumes.

Eddie added: "The Benarty Events Group totally finances this event but it would not be possible without our trusted volunteers, Gordon and Susan Mackie, Margaret and Marie Wilson.

"Thanks also goes to all our entertainers and speakers, soup maker Jean Webster and the Benarty Centre.

"We need more helpers so if would like to come along and help you would be made welcome."