Exeter club's farewell to pair

THIS Friday is a day Diana Stoneman is dreading. It will be the first time in about 35 years she hasn't left home to help run the Exeter and District Mencap Friday Club.

And the only person who really knows how that feels is June Sherrell, because she has also retired — after more than 40 years with the club.

Both have given their time voluntarily and have rarely missed a Friday, other than when unwell.

In honour of their contributions, Diana, 71, from Hill Barton, Exeter, and June, 81, from Heavitree, Exeter, have each been awarded the Echo's Bouquet of the Week.

The Friday Club, a free drop-in centre for adults at the Nichols Centre in Polsloe Road, was set up in 1963 for people with learning disabilities.

Geoff Bird, president of Exeter and District Mencap, said: "The fact it has lasted so long is due to the leadership, especially Diana and June, who have so valiantly kept the club going."

Diana became involved with the charity 46 years ago through her son who had learning disabilities.

She said: "Most of the people who come to the club we have known since they were small. We've grown up with them so I'm really going to miss them.

"The club makes a huge difference to them because it's somewhere to go. They always came to us with their problems, whether it be about boyfriends or girlfriends or what they should wear.

"June was going to retire because she's not been well and I thought it would be a good time for me to go too because my husband has been unwell. But it was the hardest decision I've made because it's part of my life and something I look forward to. I will always keep in touch."

Diana and June were nominated for the bouquet by everyone involved with the Friday Club, including Anne Brand, Mencap's welfare support volunteer.

Anne said: "They have devoted every Friday to the club. You don't get many people doing that. We now need volunteers to replace them.

"With so many people now being put in supportive living, they are more isolated and don't see friends, especially with the closure of many day centres.

"These clubs are crucial for them being able to get together and be looked after. They are also vital in that they offer extra respite opportunities for carers."

As well as meeting up every Friday, the club's members also enjoy skittles, bingo and trips out.

Anyone interested in taking on the running of the Friday Club, with the support of volunteers, is asked to call 01392 494694.