A GROUP set up to combat loneliness in the community has been given a £500 boost by local councillors.

The West Cliff-based Tea and Meet group, which meets each Thursday at the Savoy Hotel in West Hill Road, now has more than 30 members and a lively calendar of activities booked for the first part of this year.

Ward councillors Barry Goldbart, John Beesley and Rae Stollard have decided to award the group a sum of their Local Improvement Fund money in recognition of its work so far.

“We are delighted to be able to help the group,” said Cllr Goldbart.

“It is a very worthwhile cause and a great way to use this money within the West Cliff area.

“This group was inspired by the very sad case not long ago of a lady who died on her own and no one knew she had passed away. That was very upsetting for a lot of people. So far the group has achieved more than I expected, and this money will help with its up-front costs.”

Tea and Meet organiser Chris Colledge, of the West Cliff Green Residents’ Association, said he was delighted by the donation.

“We really appreciate this, it will help us deal with set up costs and buy equipment for the art club and other activities,” he said.

“The group is really growing and it is good to have the support of our local councillors.”

Further meetings, over the coming weeks, from 2.30-4pm, will include Pilates classes, a chance to learn sign language, a general knowledge quiz and a class on flower arranging.

The connected Savoy Hotel Art Club runs on the same day but starts from 12.30pm.

To support the group or find out more call Mr Colledge on 01202 315691 or 07901686237, or attend the Tea and Meet on Thursday.