PENSIONERS are hoping to raise a glass in every pub on the Dengie Peninsula as part of a unique new club. 

A monthly "pub club" has been set up at Down Hall Residential Care Home in Bradwell on Sea.

The initiative started at the beginning of the year after a pub trip.

Residents enjoyed it so much, they decided to make it a regular outing.

Louise Simon, activities coordinator at Down Hall, said: "It started with a visit to the King's Head for lunch, but friendships quickly formed between the group, and they expressed their desire to make it a regular thing.

"We’ve been to ten pubs so far, one each month, and I think we have about six to go."

The pub club is a chance for residents to experience new places, try different food, and sample local brews.

A keen member of the group, Eric Springwood, aged 95, said: "It’s been fun trying a new establishment each month.

"I always look forward to a pint of bitter, a pub lunch, and a chance to socialise with friends."

Winne Shirely, aged 86, said: "I love a day out, the Dengie has some beautiful countryside so it’s wonderful to get out into nature."

Charles Tame, aged 90, said: "I love having a natter and a few laughs with like-minded people.

"Chatting to each other in the relaxed atmosphere of a local pub has helped us to become closer friends. And sometimes we play cards or dominoes, while we chat.

"I love people-watching, and pubs are the perfect place to do just that.

"Being out and about and part of the community is great, people often pop over to our table to talk to us.

"After one month’s outing, I had some of my friends visit me at Down Hall and they were surprised that I’d been out to the pub.

"I joked with them and said: ‘We’re not prisoners you know'."

The Down Hall pub club has visited pubs such as The King's Head, Green Man Inn, The Hawk, On the Latch, Starr Inn, Wibblers Brewery, and the Fox and Hound so far.