FIVE decades of friendship were celebrated by a group of pensioners when they met for a special lunch this week.

Shildon Over 60s Club marked its 50th anniversary with a party at the civic hall, attended by the chairman of the town council, Councillor Garry Huntington.

The club was founded in 1953 by a member of the former Shildon Urban Council, Councillor Tommy Storey, who noted the success of a similar organisation in Ferryhill.

Although numbers have dropped, there are still up to 40 members at Tuesday afternoon meetings in Shildon Working Men's Club.

With 90 per cent of the regulars made up of former Aycliffe Angels, there is a special bond of friendship at the club.

Members enjoy outings, including a Christmas shopping trip to the MetroCentre.

Chairwoman Margaret Howe, one of the Angels, said: "We have very enjoyable meetings and we are all good friends. The club is still going strong and looking ahead to the future."

Anyone who would like to join the club can contact Mrs Howe on (01388) 773267. Meetings start at 2pm.