A COUPLE who run a social club for elderly people have been nominated for the Gazette's annual award that celebrates outstanding contributions made within our community.
Mike and Anne Bubbers, who run the Hutton Seniors Social Club, have been described as a "real lifeline" by Jenny Anderson, who nominated the couple for the 2013 Heart of Essex awards.
The couple, of Woodland Avenue, hold a weekly social afternoon for about 20 senior citizens aged around 80 at Hutton Poplars Lodge, which is run by the Brentwood Leisure Trust.
They put on small events such as bingo and raffles, as well as giving older people the chance "to get out for a chat and a cup of tea".
Mike, 77, who joined the Hutton Community Centre as it was called when he retired from the Chase Manhattan bank 20 years ago, said the average age now is much older than it was when he first volunteered.
His 75-year-old wife Anne started volunteering with the group, which meets every Thursday from 12.45pm to 3.30pm, about eight years ago.
Mr Bubbers said: "When I joined, the group was much bigger – it had between 60 and 70 members and the ages ranged from 65 onwards.
"But the group has got a lot smaller and the sort of people who took part aged in their 60s back then now have more money and a car and no longer want to do that.
"However, there are still people who are in their 80 and 90s who need us.
"The numbers are smaller but we are still pretty valuable."
He continued: "The problem we have is keeping it going.
"Brentwood Leisure Trust charges £40 for about three hours.
"It's OK when we have 20 people paying £2.50 but when the numbers fall to about 15 we lose money.
"Anything that helps us is most welcome."
Ms Anderson said: "I knew about the group from Anne, who I go to yoga with.
"When I retired I helped out a bit and I introduced my next door neighbour to the group.
"Anne and Mike do everything. He doesn't say it but Mike even cuts the grass for them. They are really worthy nominees."
The club is looking for volunteer drivers to pick up and drop off elderly people in Hutton who want to attend.
For more details about volunteering call Mr Bubbers on 01277 213083 or e-mail m.bubbers@btinternet.com
