CHIPPENHAM'S Stroke Club, which helps stroke victims get on the road to recovery, is on the verge of closure after their chairman announced she would be standing down from her post in a couple of months.

Cilla Labouchere, who has been at the helm of the club for the last 26 years, said she will be "heartbroken" if the club, which provides fortnightly social support to its members, is forced to fold come the clubs AGM in October.

"I am now fast approaching 79 and I would love to have a change in my life," the Kington St Michael resident added. "For 26 years I have had rewarding joy, fun and endless wonderful friendships, as well as times of sadness but after much heart searching I am resigning at our AGM in October.

"The club needs fresh input and ideas - and a stronger arm - and whoever takes this on will get back more than they put in. It is a lovely club and I would be heartbroken if it was forced to stop."

Originally started by a friend in 1989, the club provides social stimulation for stroke victims on alternate Wednesday's at the Kingsley Road Community Hall from 2-4pm through small events such as games afternoons, picnics and speakers.

As well as providing support for its members, the club also raises awareness of the illness, which strikes one person every three and a half minutes in England alone.

"I know a lot of people who come to us love getting to know others," the 78-year-old added. "They really do look forward to the meetings as it is a companionship for them and they are able to compare notes on how they have tackled certain problems.

"We would welcome anyone to the role but it would suit someone who had a bit of time on their hands to help out at the meetings and to help with the organisation side of things as well.

Anyone interested in taking on the role should call Cilla Labouchere on 01249 750222.