Appeal for more group members

8:00am Wednesday 4th June 2008

A GROUP is appealing for new members and volunteers to come forward.

The Essex Gay Men's Initiative recently launched a drop-in evening in South Woodham Ferrers, which is held between 7.30pm and 9.30pm every other Thursday including June 8.

Formed in September 2007, the Chelmsford-based group already has facilities in Chelmsford and Maldon, but sought a new site that men from South Woodham, Burnham and Wickford could visit.

The group organises social events, talks and a range of other activities, while also looking at health issues.

Jason Richer, chair of the initiative, said the group had been successful so far but that it was looking to recruit more visitors and volunteers.

He said: "We're looking for local volunteers, gay or straight. The people that come have gained more confidence and quickly have become much more chatty.

"The longer term aim is to be part of the community."

Mr Richer said the group works with and advises Essex Police and Chelmer Housing Partnership in Chelmsford.

The group is for any man aged 18-years-old or older. Mr Richer said the ages of members visiting the scheme could be anything from 21-years-old to someone in his 70s.

For more information about the venue and the group, call 01245 250256, text 07949 348820, email info@essexgaymen.org.uk, or visit www.essexgaymen.org.uk.