A Norwich social group is in danger of being forced to close if it does not find new leaders and volunteers.

Norwich Phab Club has been run for the last 40 years by Edward Westhorpe, 89, who is soon to step down.

The club, which helps disabled and able-bodied people socialise together on equal terms, includes members who have learning and physical problems.

It meets every Tuesday at the Vauxhall Centre, Johnson Place, near Chapelfield Gardens, between 7.30pm and 9.30pm, where the members enjoy activities such as card and called bingo, bar skittles and quizzes.

Phab supports a network of nearly 200 clubs throughout England and Wales and celebrated its golden jubilee in 2007, having been established in 1957.

Heather Clarke, 72, regional development officer for the Midlands region, said: 'The club has given the disabled and able-bodied members in that area the opportunity to be independent; they can join in with what they want.

'A lot of people would miss that club. It helps people to meet and socialise.

'The club would have to close if no one took it on.

'Edward Westhorpe has been a very good leader and has agreed to stay on until a replacement can be found.'

She said the club was also in desperate need of volunteers, adding: 'Volunteers are needed to carry this club forward for the benefit of the members, so that they can continue socialising and gain confidence, independence and experience to lead a full and happy life together. The club has no age restrictions.'

Phab's nationwide aim is to promote and encourage people of all abilities to come together on equal terms, to achieve complete inclusion within the wider community.

If anyone would like more information on the club in Norwich or volunteer to be one of the leaders, contact Heather Clarke on 01212490537 or email her at heather.clarke@phab.org.uk

For more information on Phab visit www.phab.org.uk