A RUBERY woman is launching a new group for non-smoking divorced and separated people in Bromsgrove.

The National Council for Divorced and Separated is opening a new branch in Catshill.

Barbara Haywood, from Rubery's Farm Grove, is pioneering the town group which is also open to widows and widowers and those living on their own.

She said: "When a marriage or long-term relationship breaks down, people can feel very alone.

"They have been with their partner for so long that they don't know how to go about making new friends. It can be very daunting, especially when they see all their friends are in couples, and it can make things awkward.

"This group is to help people pick up the strings of their life and help them start again. Each branch organises its own entertainment and events. Lots of social functions are organised enabling members to meet, chat, dance and generally enjoy themselves in a safe, friendly environment."

Barbara said the new club would also be the council's first non-smoking group.

She said: "Many people don't want to go into a pub and come out smelling of smoke, so this club will have a smoke-free environment.

"If people are on their own and wish to help us get this club up and running, they should come along to the meeting."

The group's first meeting is tomorrow (Thursday) from 7.30pm at Catshill Workingman's Club, in Meadow Road.

For details, call Barbara on 0121 457 7174.