A SOCIAL club run for people with disabilities in York has closed its doors after more than three decades.

The New Earswick and District Disabled Social Club has been running for 36 years.

It has already held its last event at New Earswick bowls club – a Christmas meal.

Treasurer Jean Owston said funding cuts meant they were unable to pay for transport to get members to and from events.

Miss Owston said: “City of York Council told us in May that they were no longer able to provide us with funding because of Government cutbacks and we have lost about £5,500 a year.

“It works out at about £8 a person to bring them in a minibus and we can no longer afford to do it.

“Many of our members have age and illness-related disabilities so the club gave them a welcome opportunity to go out.

“We would like to thank the ladies and gentlemen of the committee for all their work over the years and all the helpers who have organised meals and trips, not to mention all the drivers who have given up their time, many often on a voluntary basis, to take people on outings.

“Over the years we have had musical evenings, slide shows, meals and days out to the seaside. I would also just like to say thank you for the flowers that were bought for me and the chairman, Joan Eastwood and presented at our last meeting.

“We are disappointed that we have had to close, but sadly, it’s a sign of the times.”

Latterly the club, which met regularly at Red Lodge in New Earswick, had 30 members.

But at one point it had between 50 and 60 members, and it draws people from across York including Acomb, Fulford and Strensall, as well as New Earswick.