A host of women whose much-loved club disbanded recently were treated to a lovely Christmas afternoon tea this week.

Kind-hearted members of Neilston Men’s Group (NMG) organised the outing for ex-members of You, Me and a Cup of Tea after hearing of their disappointment.

The tea took place at The Pad restaurant on the village's Main Street on Wednesday (December 13), with a great time had by all.

Raymond Kerr, the chairman of NMG, told the Barrhead News: “Eighteen turned up at The Pad for afternoon tea, paid from donations from the men’s group as a lovely Christmas treat for them after they heard their group was closed down.”

Prior to the end of You, Me and a Cup of Tea, the ladies met up every Wednesday at the Bank community hub to enjoy lunch, tea and a chat.

Before the sessions came to an end, they had been running since early 2022.

The meet-ups were run by Neilston Development Trust (NDT) who set them up to help with loneliness and isolation among older residents in the village, particularly in the wake of the Covid pandemic.

The ladies valued and looked forward to the chance to get together on a weekly basis.

Fortunately, however, thanks to the determination of Raymond and NMG, the group is now set to reform in the new year.

“At the tea we discussed reforming a ladies’ group for the village and the girls picked its name – Neilston Golden Girls,” added Raymond.

“We intend to reform by February 2024, giving us time to establish ourselves and find a place to meet in the village.

“We have a committee formed and the group will be a community group offering a safe place for ladies to meet, enjoy lunch and build friendships.

"Many are widows so appreciated meeting weekly.”

NDT has been contacted for comment on the end of the group.