A HAMPTON Wick charity organisation is holding its 70th birthday party soon, but this could be its final celebration as the group is almost certain to close.

The town's Royal British Legion Women's Section is inviting all past members to turn up to a party on Monday, April 5.

But the section, which raises money for the wives, widows and children of services personnel, faces closure because of dwindling membership.

Evelyn Nicholson is one of six or seven members still active. She told the Times that the women's section has raised thousands of pounds for benevolent schemes over the years.

She explained: "We are run entirely on donations. We get no money from the RBL or from the Poppy Appeal. Our funds help look after the wives and children of the lads in Iraq. The section gives a weekly allowance to widows who are needy, we supply children with scholarships and clothing.

"We've tried to keep going, but getting people to run the branches is very difficult. It would be good to see some younger people join us, but young people are so busy."

Mrs Nicholson was only 14 when the Hampton Wick section was launched in 1934, but her mother was one of the founder members.

She said: "I joined in 1942 as a young war bride and have been a member ever since.

"In the old days, we used to meet weekly and ran bingo and beetle drives to raise money. Last year we had a coffee morning. Now we just meet monthly to discuss business, what's going on and how money is spent."

The party on April 5 is in the hall of the Lion pub in Wick Road, Teddington, from 2.30pm to 4pm. There will be food and drink on offer plus a chance to see memorabilia about the section.

People intending to come are asked to call Mrs Nicholson in advance so that the organisers can arrange appropriate catering. Call 8941 4900.

Anybody who can volunteer their time to help save the branch should call the same number.

"We have been meeting in the Lion pub for nearly 20 years. We used to pay a nominal rent, but now they very kindly allow us to use it free. At the moment, we only meet in the afternoons because we are elderly and don't like going out at night - but that could change if we get more younger members.

Wives and widows of servicemen can join the women's section as full members. Sisters, daughters, granddaughters and great granddaughters are welcome as associate members.

Closure of the section could possibly be averted if enough young blood can be injected.

If the branch closes, its standards will be laid up in the church.

The main British Legion branch in Hampton Wick has already closed down, several years ago, because of a lack of members.

The party on April 5 is in the hall of the Lion pub in Wick Road, Teddington, from 2.30pm to 4pm. There will be food and drink on offer plus a chance to see memorabilia about the section.

People intending to come are asked to call Mrs Nicholson in advance so that the organisers can arrange appropriate catering. Call 8941 4900.

Anybody who can volunteer their time to help save the branch should call the same number.