A LUNCH club legend will be stepping down from managing the group after more than 16 years.

Pat Clark has been running the Maldon Age Concern Lunch Club since the early 2000s, which meets each Thursday at the Quaker Hall in Butt Lane, Maldon.

It provides nutritious, freshly-cooked meal for around 40 elderly people in the Maldon district as well as friendship and socialising for the older generation.

Mrs Clark has been persuaded by her family that the time has come to step away from her manager role and take things easier.

Pat said: “I have really enjoyed the lunch club and getting to know all the members over the years.

“The club is really important in helping older people stay healthy and in touch.”

She added: “I am looking for someone, or perhaps two people sharing the role, to take over from me.

“They could shadow me for a while to learn the ropes before beginning to run the club.”

There is a summer outing each year, often to Frinton, and a meal at Christmas. A dedicated group of volunteers help Mrs Clark including her husband, neighbours and friends, and a rota of volunteer cooks.

Anyone interested in the role should call 01621 852950 or email patgjdclark@gmail.com.