FUN, laughter and friendship are the aims of a support group which invited Halton’s Mayor and Mayoress for a special meal.

The Lunch Bunch helps people with Alzheimer’s and their carers and families.

Widow Doris Pearce, aged 70, has run the group since her husband, Kenneth, aged 72, who suffered from the condition, passed away two years ago.

Martin Halstead helps to co-ordinate the club.

Doris, of Glebe Lane, Widnes, said:”We are a big family team. Everyone puts their effort in.

“We’ve all been through things that Alzheimer’s can cause. It is really hard to understand if you have not experienced it.”

The group goes bowlilng once a month and organises day trips.

Last week, they visited Llangollen.

They invite guest speakers and often go to the theatre.

Halton’s Mayor and Mayoress, Clrs Tom and Angela McInerney joined them for lunch on Tuesday.

Doris said: “It was absolutely fantastic. We had a wonderful time.

“It was a chance for them to see what we do.

“Husbands, wives and carers come along with their loved ones. It’s a chance for them to socialise. They get a lot out of it.

“They can ring me at anytime and I always try to help them.”

The group started five years ago and meets every Tuesday, from 12 noon to 2.30pm, in Murdishaw Community Centre in Runcorn.

Anyone interested in joining the group can call Doris on 0151 423 1155.