A NEW lunch club is being set up in Menstrie to help combat social isolation in the local area.

Starting Thursday, February 11, elderly people in the village will be invited along to the Dumyat Centre for hot food and a chat.

The project, thought to be the first lunch club in Menstrie, will be run by the community council in a not-for-profit capacity.

The club is scheduled to run every two weeks and if it proves popular, future excursions may be on the cards in the near future.

Caroline Crawford, secretary for Menstrie Community Council, said: "We thought there was a need for this in the village.

"It's all to with social isolation, and helping to overcome that. And when you consider the weather we have had recently, it hasn't been too easy for older people to get out and about.

"But to make sure that mobility isn't a barrier to coming along, we will also be able to arrange for someone to pick people if up and bring them, if needed.

"We think the numbers will grow," she added. "We already have support from volunteers at Menstrie Parish Church.

"If it is successful then, in time, we'll maybe try and arrange some trips."

Local councillor Les Sharp added: "It's all about inclusiveness, and making sure people in the community do not suffer from loneliness.

"This is a positive way forward and will bring people together, which is especially important as we are still in the post-Christmas period."

Clackmannanshire Council are to help with the catering, while members of the Menstrie Community Council will be on hand to serve patrons.

Those wishing to attend can head along for 12.30. Organisers say there will be a cover charge of around £3 on the day.