A CHARITY fund-raising organisation in New Milton could fold after celebrating its 70th anniversary unless it gets an influx of new members.

New Milton Round Table members got together at Barton-on-Sea golf club for a celebratory dinner on Saturday.

But there was only a handful of them to raise a glass to toast the future of the branch.

"We're currently down to about eight members and we desperately need some more," said Ian McMillan, a past branch chairman.

"We'd like to have 20 or 30 more. The more the merrier."

"Unfortunately it is becoming increasingly difficult to encourage new members to join and, without new members this long-running group may not continue.

"It is a great way for young men to take an active role in their community, while having fun at the same time."

The age range for Round Tablers is 18 to 45 years; and many of the current crop are now in their 40s and will soon be forced to leave.

New Milton Round Table has organised, or been involved in, numerous fund-raising events including its annual fireworks display at Fawcett's Field, staging the Pedal Car Grand Prix with New Milton Town Partnership, fielding a raft in the RNLI Funday at Mudeford and running an Alternative Ascot event at Bashley village hall.

The annual bonfire night event is the biggest money-spinner, last year coining in the region of £2,500 for charity.

Check out the Round Table's website at newmiltonroundtable.org.uk or call Mr McMillan on 07966 418437 to find out how to join. The club meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

  • This year's fireworks night is at Fawcett's Field on Saturday, October 28.