Gateway to happiness

FLOURISHING . . . members of Oldham Gateway Club

Pride in Oldham 2011

A FLOURISHING club which provides a gateway of support for Oldhamers with learning difficulties has taken pride of place in the town for 45 years.

Nominated for a Pride in Oldham Award, Oldham Gateway Club caters for 96 members of all ages — the youngest is 16-years-old, the oldest 76.

Club treasurer, Marjorie Smith (70) said: “It’s not respite care as such, but for some of the people who come, it’s the only night out they get and means a night off for parents and carers.”

The club, based in Egerton Street, started with only a handful of parents and carers. Then in 1970 the group affiliated to the Mencap organisation and became Oldham Gateway Club.

Meeting every Wednesday evening at the Egerton Rooms, 20 volunteer helpers, together with some support workers, provide a range of activities from bowls to pool and Wii computer games to 10-pin bowling.

Throughout the year, the club, which also helps people with physical difficulties, provides visits to the theatre and holiday outings.

The breaks have suffered due to the amount of volunteers and are looking for the public’s help.

If you would like to consider becoming a volunteer for this worthy cause, call 01706-341 858.




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