A SOCIAL club that helps stroke sufferers overcome language difficulties is appealing for new members in a desperate bid for survival.

The Monday Speech Club has proved a real success story since its formation in 1982 by a group of enthusiastic community and occupational therapists.

But members fear it will fold unless it recruits volunteers soon.

"We're fighting for our survival. We desperately need new members," said Hyman Rapstaff.

The aim of the self-financing group, which meets at the Railway Club, Tolladine Road, every other Monday, is to provide a friendly environment, in which, people with language problems can begin to pluck up the courage and confidence to speak in public.

But the club needs both new members and volunteers to help with transport and other duties. Many members cannot attend meetings without the lifeline of a lift.

"It's a great social club and a real confidence booster for people who have had strokes to get together and talk," said member Winifred Boyle.

"We used to have around 56 members, but now we're down to 20. We're not as young as we used to be so it's becoming harder to find transport and get people out and about.

"We'd like to bring some new blood into the group, so we'd welcome anyone out there whose had a stroke to come along and join us."

The group has just celebrated its 21st birthday with a meal out.

Day trips to National Trust properties and weekends away to Western-Super-Mare are just some of the many varied activities the group organises.

Anyone interested in joining the club, or able to help out with donations, as a volunteer or driver should contact Mrs Boyle on 01905 429410 or Mr Rapstaff on 01905 611116.