FEARS which have been circulating in the Forest that the local charity Lydcare is facing closure are unfounded.

The charity, based in Lydbrook Valley Springs, runs lunch clubs at English Bicknor and Joys Green and offers valuable advocacy and benefits advice as well as a transport service.

It admits there has been a "massive reduction in its funding and it has had to dramatically reduce its office staffing in order to try and maintain services."

But it is continuing to operate and the office remains open from Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 1pm.

Lydcare's AGM will be on May 16 at Joys Green Community Room at 7.30pm. Anyone who can volunteer for the charity or help with fundraising to help continue its services would be hugely welcome. For transport call 01594 543202 or to get in touch or leave a message call 01594 860143.