A club in Barrow is making sure that its anniversary celebrations are extra special by getting involved in a national event.

The Barrow Bridge Club was first formed way back in 1944 with eight decades of existence worthy of a party.

In the hope of bringing more players to the club, taster sessions are being held at the club's home at 1A Drake Street on Wednesday, September 11 from 2pm to 4.30pm and 6pm to 8.30pm.

A week later, lessons are restarting at the club to encourage more people to get involved, which will cost £65 for 30 sessions - including the EBU handbook to help you learn the ropes.

This has been timed to coincide with the Festival of Bridge, running from September 9 to 15, in which the English Bridge Union (EBU) is working with the Scottish Bridge Union (SBU) to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Like this story? The Mail readers can subscribe for just £6 for 6 months

Clare Parker said: "Throughout the week, we have lots of plans to raise money via subs from members, a cake sale and a book sale - all funds will be donated to this very worthy cause.

"This is a week of celebrations as the club is also marking our 80th anniversary, so we are having a celebratory meal and a raffle.

"From playing one night a week and renting a room from the Conservative Club in 1944, we now play seven times a week both online and in our own premises which were purchased in 1977 - so we've come a long way over the years!"

The bridge club in Barrow has been running for 80 yearsThe bridge club in Barrow has been running for 80 years (Image: Clare Parker)

The Festival of Bridge has a goal of raising £60,000 for Cancer Research UK, as well as engaging new and lapsed players of the game.

EBU Chair Adrian Darnell commented: "It's a fantastic idea and a superb opportunity for the current bridge community to showcase our wonderful game to the many who have never played it and to reignite the enthusiasm of those who haven't played in the last decade or so.

"I sincerely hope that everyone will get behind the festival and, through it, attract a new cohort to the bridge tables, and at the same time support the vital work of Cancer Research UK."

For more information about joining Barrow Bridge Club's celebrations, you can contact Clare via 07773326571 or clarej60@gmail.com.