A SOCIAL club for people with learning difficulties is urgently seeking a new meeting place after being forced out of its home.

Droitwich Challengers has been established for more than 20 years and gets together on Thursday nights.

The charity was based at the Covercroft Centre, in Colman Road.

But the building is undergoing a huge refurbishment project to make way for a community mental health team, leaving Droitwich Challengers homeless.

Around 25 residents, aged from 20 to 70, use the service.

Weekly activities include cooking, discos, art, outings and even holidays.

Club leader Karen Seager said: "Droitwich Challengers is a valuable asset to the town.

"It gives members the opportunity to become independent and meet new friends. It also provides respite for families.

"We urgently need a hall, community centre or school with good facilities including a large kitchen, car parking and storage space."

The group faces another obstacle. Use of the Covercroft Centre was free but other venues will require rent.

The group is self-funding and has almost no cash.

Karen hopes Spa folk may be able to host fundraising events in aid of their plight.

Wychavon's mental health locality manager, Martin Leeder, based at Covercroft, said: "The refurbishment will hopefully be completed by July.

"If our facilities meet the needs of Droitwich Challengers they are welcome to come back in the future.

"Other groups seeking new premises have been successful and I believe they are satisfied."

If you can help the charity call Karen on 07989 444858.