IT has been a feature of Earlston life for the over 60's since its introduction in 1970.

And the Wednesday Club in Earlston celebrated its 45th anniversary in fine style.

The club, who meet once a fortnight at St John's Church Hall on Earlston High Street, get together to watch films, play quizzes, go on daytrips together and -occasionally- have a sing song.

No more so than at their recent 45th birthday bash, with many of the group joining in with accomplished singer and accordionist Stuart Anderson for old favourites such as My Aberdeen Home and Song of the Clyde.

Connie Seaton, 91, has been with the group since the outset. She sat on the original committee in 1970, and has seen many changes occur since then. “We started off in the old Masonic Hall, and each member paid 2.5p to attend. We had to move premises because the membership grew so much, so we switched to the school canteen.

“There was a more even split between men and women back then, roughly 50/50. Whereas today, we only have one gentleman attending. I would like to see that change. As you can see for yourself, the entertainment it terrific, and there is no reason why more men cannot enjoy that too.”

Club secretary Sheila McKay has been with the group since 2003 and has seen average age of members lower during that time. She said: “There are a lot more people in their 60s coming along now, whereas before, it was predominately people in their 80-90's.

“We try to have a variety of events that appeal across the board. That can be in the form of talks, slide shows, quizzes and many other things besides.

“The ladies look forward to their days away too. We had a trip to St Andrews in the summer and we will be going for a Christmas shopping trip to Livingston. It is a great club to be involved with.”