End of an era as club calls it a day

A charity that has helped people with sight impairment in Spalding for nearly 50 years has closed its doors, but is going to continue helping by funding the training of a new guide dog.

The Spalding Blind Social Club has been arranging social events for people with sight difficulties and their families for the last 47 years.

But due to smaller numbers needing the service, and the age of the volunteers who run it, the decision has been made to close the club.

The club’s secretary, Peggy Seymour is 87 and has been involved for 40 years, firstly through her brother Jack Rouse. She’s been secretary for the last 27 years. Her daughter Yvonne Canham has also been involved for 15 years and is the club’s treasurer.

The majority of the committee, including chair of 12 years Dennis Pearson, are blind or partially sighted.

Mr Pearson used the last meeting of the group to thank everyone for their support.

“We’ve all really enjoyed it and made so many friends over the years,” said Yvonne.

“My mum got involved through my brother who was totally blind, and when my dad Fred died she needed something to do, so took this up.

“The club has been a happy meeting place for the local blind and partially sighted, organising trips out, meals, entertainment and much more for the members.

“At its peak the club had more than 40 members, but this is now down to 18 of which several are elderly and struggle with mobility.”

The club met on the fourth Thursday of every month and second Thursday in December at Pinchbeck Village Hall with its last session being the Christmas party on December 8.

Members and helpers were each presented with a Christmas present and cake.

The Spalding Blind Social Club has been working alongside the South Lincolnshire Blind Society which runs sessions in Spalding and members will be directed there.

Left over funds from the closing club have been donated to pay for a Guide Dog Puppy as a final gesture to further help another blind person.

Members voted the as yet unborn puppy be called Rex and the remaining club funds will used to train him up for a Spalding area person that needs him.

“We will miss everyone, especially my mum will, as it’s been such a big part of her life,” said Yvonne. “It’s nice that the club will continue for a while through the guide dog.”