A new club launches in Weymouth tomorrow, November 2, and organisers hope it will be just the cup of tea for the town’s elderly community.

As part of its ‘Communi-Tea’ initiative, Dorset Tea has teamed up with Age UK to provide funding and support for the drop-in ‘Tea Club’.

It follows the success of Age UK’s Dorchester Coffee Club where people can enjoy a weekly warm drink and welcome.

The club has proved extremely popular, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation.

With the support of Dorset Tea providing funding and tea, the charity has now been able to establish a similar group in Weymouth.

Rachel Weiss, pictured left, Community Engagement Manager, Age UK North, South and West Dorset, said: “Following the Covid-19 pandemic, many older people in our communities felt isolated and lonely.

“These groups are so important for tackling loneliness, but also where people can go to find the support they need.

“This funding has allowed us to set up a Weymouth group, creating a sociable environment for people to get together and chat, as well as providing access to local services, games and more.”

Lauren Forecast, pictured right, Brand Manager, Dorset Tea, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Age UK North, South & West Dorset by enabling the independent charity to roll-out this amazing concept into further towns.

“The ‘Tea Club’ is a perfect example of why we launched the ‘Communi-Tea’ initiative.

“We are proud to support the incredible the work that Age UK carry out, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation in rural Dorset.”

As well as creating a sociable environment for people to get together and chat, Age UK work with other services in the community to highlight what is available in the local area or give information.

Guest speakers have come from Citizens Advice, the fire service and the police.

Regular games sessions are also held including skittles and darts, quizzes, sing-a-longs and musical bingo.

The first Weymouth Tea Club is at the Salvation Army, Weymouth, from 1.30pm-3pm.

The cost is £3 per person.

There is no need to book, simply drop in for a cuppa and singsong!

• ageuk.org.uk