THE Orchard Club reopened in new premises last Monday after its shock decision to move out of Haslewey Community Centre before Christmas.

Waverley counclllor Jenny Else joined club manager Hilary Owen to cut the ribbon (pictured ) at its new home just down the road at the borough’s locality office, in Lion Green.

The Orchard celebrates not only its 70th anniversary this year but also the launch of a new focus on the less mobile, which will include vulnerable and socially isolated elderly residents of Haslemere and the surrounding area.

The club, formerly Age Concern Haslemere, is grant funded by Waverley to provide support services for the elderly in Haslemere and surrounding villages. It plans to expand its community services with its new “hub and spoke” model. The Lion Green hub will be the headquarters and provide a base for staff and volunteers.

The Orchard’s community services will be delivered from a number of venues or “spokes” throughout the area and transport for the less mobile to and from the club’s new locations will be provided. They include the popular Thursday and Friday Friends groups, a members-only lunch, home visits and affordable social trips and visits.

Club chairman and trustee Philip Currie said: “We are excited to see what this year holds, with a fresh start in a momentous year and a new focus for our activities. We are thankful for the continued support of our excellent team of volunteers. They have been pivotal in the club’s continued success and provide an excellent service to our users.”