A March couple has retired from running March and District Deaf Club after 34 years.

Stalwarts Godfrey and Catherine Palmer were presented with a gift each at the club’s last meeting.

Ann Ratcliffe, of the club, said: “The club has enjoyed many happy moments over the years and deaf people have travelled there from around the surrounding areas.

“Throughout the club’s duration, Godfrey has been the secretary and Catherine, his wife, has always supported him.

“She has been instrumental in making refreshments and lovely cakes.

“Godfrey has been the mini bus driver on our annual outings, done the chef duties on barbecue nights and arranged the Christmas dinners and parties.

“The club members have enjoyed a variety of activities over the years.

“There have even been many demonstrations and interesting talks given by guest speakers.

“The members were involved in competitions, indoor sports, quizzes, playing card games and enjoyed many evening of social chatting.

“At our last club meeting, the members wished to show appreciation to Godfrey and Catherine for all their hard work over the years.

“They were presented with a lasting gift each, with our love and thanks.

“Godfrey is now our president and it is good to know that he and Catherine will remain members the club, but in a more leisurely capacity.

“March and District Deaf Club members will continue to meet at St Peter’s Church Hall on the first Friday of the month from 7-11pm.

“It is very important that the club continues to flourish; even though in this modern age, with advanced technology and various modes of contact, deaf people still need face to face contact for communication.”

The club members used to meet at the Adult Education Centre at Station Road on a Saturday evening once a month.

They then moved to a room at Trinity Methodist Church in the High Street, with the date moving to the third Friday evening of the month.

The members have since been meeting at St Peter’s Church Hall in the High Street on the first Friday of the month.