ELDERLY people may lose out on a popular day centre because its operating group is unable to find a second driver.

The Heatherlands Centre in Ferndown, run by Age Concern, is now appealing for anyone with the time to help transport the 20 members every Thursday from their homes to the site for the day

Pat Hoddy, acting vice chair of Age Concern, said "it would be a tragedy if it closed" as it is often the only chance that some of their members have to interact with others.

"They would be stuck inside four walls and not see anybody," she said. "It's an uncaring world at the moment.

"The elderly people in the district are going to be the ones that will pay the price and trying to get grants is so difficult."

Until recently the group had two drivers but one of them was forced to retire due his age, in line with the insurance company's policy.

Since then volunteers have stepped up to transport people to and from their homes in their own cars which is not a feasible option long term, Ms Hoddy said, because many members have large zimmer frames which are difficult to move.

If a second driver is not found the club will close on January 26.

"This is a way of giving back to the community," Ms Hoddy added. "Some of the volunteers are so anxious about seeing it close. They have been brilliant and they have all agreed to do whatever possible to keep the centre open until the end of January."

Such is the demand for the centre that Age Concern has an additional five people on a waiting list who could be accommodated should a second driver be found.

Visitors to the centre, once picked up, are given breakfast when they arrive, before playing games or cards or having a chat with others. Lunch is served and then they are provided with some light-hearted entertainment. They are then given some homemade cake and tea before being taken back home.

Ward councillor Lawrence Wilson told the Daily Echo: "A lot of people are incapacitated. With buses being so poor in the area I think it's essential we have something like this for elderly people."

For further information please ring Ms Hoddy on 01725 516487.