ELDERLY residents who once felt lonely and cut off have thanked a lunch club which has transformed their lives.

More than 60 pensioners living in the north of the borough have been able to meet new friends and get out and about since Regenerate RISE launched in April.

Its grateful members, who age from 69 to 97, have nominated the club in the Barclays Ealing Gazette Let's Do It awards.

Eileen Mortimer, 77, has arthritis and after losing her son a few years ago was left feeling depressed and unable to get around on her own. She now goes to the club three times a week. "I was feeling very low, she said.

"I'ts made so much difference to my life. I can laugh each day. When I don't go, I dont laugh and I'm in pain. But to be here helps with the pain and depression. We just had a beautiful dinner and the staff are excellent."

The club meets on Mondays at the Dovetail Centre, in Yeading Lane, and Wednesdays and Fridays at St Barnabas Church, Raglan Way, both in Northolt, for lunches and afternoon activities ranging from arts and crafts to trips to the garden centre.

Eileen Thornborough, 80, added: "Coming here has done me the world of good. I was never going out. I feel 10 years younger now."

The charity, which was set up with a Big Lottery grant, aims to reach homebound residents aged 60 and over and living in Greenford, Northolt and Perivale.

Powered by a team of 15 volunteers, home visits can also be arranged for those too frail to leave the house.

Rachel Hill, project manager, said: Were not just any day centre. We want to reach the isolated who may not have any family and provide them with a support network.

Money donated from ward forum budgets helped the club buy a minibus to pick up residents in Greenford and Northolt or through dial-a-ride in Perivale at a reduced price of s3 return.

More volunteers and members are always welcome. If you are over 60, feel isolated and would like to join, contact Rachel on 020 8422 5595 or 07825 233458, or email rachelhill@regenerate-rise.co.uk.