Eastchurch Over 60s Club is to close.

Secretary Jeanne Hursey said dwindling numbers made it unviable to run and next week’s meeting will be the last.

The group holds fortnightly gatherings at the Scout Hut in Eastchurch High Street.

Jeanne, who took over the running of the club in 2012, said when she started members numbered about 20, but numbers have dwindled.

She said: “Membership has just gone down and down.

“At the last four meetings we’ve had a maximum of six people turn up.

“It’s a great shame because people used to enjoy it – I certainly did.”

Jeanne, of Sunset Close, Eastchurch, said during its two decades, the club maintained a busy agenda.

It included shopping trips to Hempstead Valley, fish and chip lunches, and bingo. Bring and buy sales were also held to coincide with meetings.

Jeanne, who has five step-grandchildren, said a part-time job and afternoon walks with her new puppy will ensure the club’s demise doesn’t leave too much of a void.

But she admits life won’t be quite the same without the Over 60s.

“I’ll miss the chats we used to have and the gossip about local issues,” she said. “It’s disheartening but it’s one of those that happens I’m afraid.

“I’d like to thank current members for their loyalty and attendance.

“Especially Anne Foreman for her bingo calling and Carol Holden for the wonderful scones, and her assistance when I was unable to attend a meeting.

“I’d also like to thank Marion Checksfield for her unstinting work as secretary prior to me taking over.

“A big thanks also to the owners of the Eastchurch Scout Hall and Sheppey Wheels for their help with day trips.”

Eastchurch Over 60s Club meets at the Scout Hut for the final time on Monday.