A Norwich luncheon club that has seen its membership triple in its first 25 years had a special guest as it celebrated its anniversary today.

St Luke's Older People's Luncheon Club started in 1986 and meets every Wednesday from 10am to 3pm at St Luke's Church in Aylsham Road.

Norwich North MP Chloe Smith joined members for a meal at the club today and said afterwards that it was a mainstay of the community, and a good way for local people to come together and socialise.

Roy Hansell, the club's secretary and founder, said: 'Her support is appreciated as we are all volunteers and we hope that her involvement will encourage more people to volunteer with us.'

Mr Hansell's wife Mary, who is the club's cook, said: 'We have still got some of the original members from 1986, including Vera Read, who is 98. We have about 45 members now, which is three times the number we had when we started.'

The club is looking for new members. Contact Ray Hansell on 01603 470717.