A lunch club which provides a lifeline for vulnerable elderly people could be scrapped by the council.

The scheme, which runs every day of the year gives residents of Hardwick House in Shepway a hot, healthy meal and the chance to socialise with neighbours and families.

Among the people to benefit from the club is 81-year-old Sheila Krutnik.

Her daughter Vanda is worried those who rely on the service could slip into depression and malnutrition without it.

The 50-year-old, from South Park Road, Maidstone, said: “In this group there are disabled people and suffers of illnesses such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s and for many it is the only time most of these frail and lovely people can socialise.

"For many it is the only time most of these frail and lovely people can socialise. Lunch club is their world." -Vanda Krutnik

“Lunch club is their world.

“It has been running for years, costs a comparative pittance and is a lifeline.

“It helps them to feel part of the community, because the club is open to neighbours and relatives too and gives them a healthy and nutritious meal.

“They don’t just do lunch –they do bingo, organise the Christmas party, hold coffee mornings.”

The sheltered housing complex, in Northumberland Road, comprises 46 flats and bungalows and is managed by Allied Healthcare.

But the lunch club is funded by Kent County Council, which has held two consultation meetings at the house, which were criticised for being held at short notice and failing to take residents’ concerns into account.

KCC confirmed the club costs around £60,000 a year to run - despite a £3.40 charge per person, per lunch.

It was announced that it would be terminated in September, but the exact date has since been postponed.

A KCC spokesman said: “We are working with colleagues at Golding Homes and Allied Healthcare, and seeking the views of residents and relatives, to explore a sustainable meals service at Hardwick House.

“We are looking at several alternative options, including working with community partners.

“A final decision has not been made.”

But Vanda, a secretary at Maidstone Allotments, said news of the club’s closure had left residents in distress.

She added: “These people have fought wars and worked all their lives and now they need our help.”