AS social groups at Castle Ham Lodge reconvene following a summer break, all groups are offering a free one-off taster session.

Two years ago a number of social groups were set up by the Time for Life Community Mentoring Service at the lodge. They have been well supported by Castle Ham residents as well as people living in and around Okehampton.

The groups reconvene in September and are offering a free taster session to those wanting to try them out.

The Oke-Dokey coffee morning meets every Thursday from 10.30am to noon. Time for Life community mentor Jolanta and volunteer Jean run the group, which has around 15 regular attendees. A carer support worker attends once a month, offering support and information. The building has easy access for anyone using a wheelchair. Each session costs £1, to include refreshments. For more information call Jolanta on 07561 073180.

The seated exercise group follows on from the Oke-Dokey coffee morning from 12.15pm to 1.15pm. Fun is had by all who attend, as singing teacher Elaine leads the group. Each session costs £2.

The group has a large number of regulars who sing, and come along to chat and enjoy refreshments. The group meets on Mondays from 11.30am to 12.30pm, costing £2.50. Elaine is looking for a volunteer to help run it. For more details on the exercise and singing groups call her on 01837 52164.

The writing group remains small in numbers, but with a few enthusiastic members is looking to expand. Call Julie on 01837 659689 for the next meeting date.

A new creative writing course, run by Devon Adult Education Community Learning, starts at the Ockment Centre on Monday, September 23. Fees for the seven-week term are £88 with a professional tutor. The group is for writers with some experience. For more information call 01822 613701.

The art group has moved to Kent House, and meets on a Wednesdays from 2pm to 4pm. Sessions cost £2, including tea and materials. Contact Ali on 01822 810897.

The reminiscence group meets every second Tuesday from 10.30am to noon from September 10. Group facilitator Chris offers topics for discussion and has many new ideas for the year. Each session costs £2 including refreshments. The sessions are suitable for those with memory loss and those with good memories. Chris is also looking for a volunteer to help her with the group. For more details contact Chris on [email protected]">[email protected] or 01409 221797.

The Fun with Fabric group has remained small with devoted group members but has closed for the present time.

Anyone interested in this group or in a creative knitting group, contact Jenny Beavon on 07787 786594.

For any further enquiries contact Castle Ham Lodge on 01837 650800.

For information about Time for Life contact 0845 3047267, [email protected]">[email protected], or visit http://www.timeforlife.org.uk">www.timeforlife.org.uk