TIME could be called on a charity group in Blandford after 45 years of supporting good causes.

Volunteers with the Moose International lodge are preparing to close the doors on their Bournemouth Road HQ unless new members step forward.

The fundraising group has raised more than £6,000 in the last four years alone, backing good causes including the Blandford Opportunity Group and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Branch governor Ken Cole said it was not too late for supporters to step forward and save the lodge, which has operated in Blandford since 1965.

“There’s a tremendous social side to the lodge, as well as the positive feeling you get from fundraising, when you know your efforts are helping someone else,” said Mr Cole.

Membership of the Blandford lodge has dwindled from as many as 60 people in the 1980s to just two members today.

The lodge recently presented cheques for £1,000 to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and to the Blandford Opportunity Group.

Group leader Sharon Kevern recently accepted a cheque for £1,000 from the lodge, which will be used to help children with complex needs at the centre in Whitecliff Mill Gardens.

“Groups like Rotary, Lions, and Moose International are tremendously important to the Opportunity Group.

“They do fantastic fundraising work, and we get a huge amount of support from them.

“They are based in the community, and you can approach them in a crisis and say we need money in a hurry for wages, or a piece of equipment, and they will help,” said Sharon.

The money raised by the Blandford lodge will go towards enhancing the outdoor play area at the Whitecliff Mill Gardens HQ, she added, where a canopy is planned to protect children from strong sunlight and rain.

To join the Blandford lodge, call 01934 842112.