INDIVIDUALS, schools, organisations and businesses from the wider Tavistock area are being invited to the launch of a special social club this month for people with learning difficulties.

The Welcome Clubs are run by Robert Owen Communities (ROC). The organisation will be unveiling its ambitious plans for the future at the Bedford Hotel on Wednesday, March 27, with the generous support of the Bedford and sponsors Chilcotts Solicitors and Francis Clark LLP.

ROC already has support from the community, such as that of Christopher Kirwin, chairman of Tavistock Music and Arts festival.

Christopher said: 'Over my many years of association with Kelly College and its close links with the Tavistock and West Devon community, I have had much contact with people with learning disabilities.

'ROC is a specialist charity in the field which certainly has my support for all it is doing for Tavistock.

'ROC has a vision for community inclusion which clearly requires the support of the community for it to be successful. I therefore hope that every section of our community will be represented at this important event.'

Billie Burnett, the Volunteering Services co-ordinator for West Devon CVS has worked closely with the club.

She said: 'I am sure that many people in Tavistock will come forward to show their support for this fantastic club. Volunteering is a good way to get involved with your community and ROC Welcome Tavistock has a wide range of opportunities available.'

Andrew, who is a long standing, reliable, vital and ambitious member of the club, contributes in many ways.

He arrives early to help set up the equipment and helps out in the kitchen. He sits on the club's steering committee and comes up with good ideas for social activities and fundraising.

Andrew is also a volunteer in a charity shop and has recently been promoted. ROC wants to support people to be able to achieve the same as Andrew has achieved, but in order to do this it needs the support of the Tavistock community.

Jane Anning, ROC Welcome Tavistock project manager, said: 'We really want to develop our links with community groups and businesses in order to widen the range of social opportunities for the members of our expanding club.

'The launch will be uplifting, informative and really good fun. I am really looking forward to it.'

West Devon MP?Geoffrey Cox said he was looking forward to the launch of 'this valuable charity' and he was 'wholly supportive of their brilliant vision'.

If you would like to attend the launch, which takes place between 5.30pm and 7pm, please phone event organiser Calvin Lovelock on 07525 411773 or send an email to [email protected]">[email protected] by Monday, March 25.