Lunch clubs which help elderly people who are often isolated should continue to receive funding from Ribble Valley Council over the next year, councillors have been told.

Government plans to change winter fuel payment for pensioners and future council funding for local luncheon clubs were raised at Ribble Valley Council’s latest full meeting.

Conservative Cllr Stephen Atkinson, borough leader, said: ”The decision to remove (winter fuel) allowance will affect more than 15,000 pensioners in this borough.

“These people have a full state pension, which means they have paid at least 30 years of National Insurance contributions.

“These are the workers and contributors who have played by the rules, so we have to stand up for them. I have asked Nicola Hopkins [a council director] to look into how we can use the Household Support Fund to support pensioners who do not get pension credits, who are those earning above £11,500.”

Thefund is a government-backed scheme through councils which provides small grants for people in need, such as for food, clothes and utilities.

Later regarding parish council topics, Conservative Cllr Tony Austin said he represents Billington and Langho, where 30 per cent of residents are pensioners. He also mentioned the winter fuel payment and the borough’s funding for luncheon clubs.

He said: “Can our parish councils liaison committee confirm we will continue to financially support luncheon clubs across the borough, so they can continue to do important work? Hopefully, some clubs might also extend their hours to extend the comfort they give to people.

“I would also be good if new volunteers come forward to form new luncheon clubs, which I hope Ribble Valley Council would support.

“I cannot emphasise enough the vital impact of luncheon clubs. Not only do they help people to stay warm, they offer offer hospitality and friendship.”

Cllr Louise Edge, Mayor of the Ribble Valley,  said: “I agree. I’ll be helping at a luncheon club at Wilpshire this week and we have just completed a submission.

“These clubs provide a good-quality cooked lunch and companionship for residents who may often face isolation through the week. They are really important.”

Conservative Cllr Gary Scott, vice-chairman of the parish liaison committee, said: “I have spoken to the leader and funding will be coming forward for the next year to support luncheon clubs. I agree with councillors comments.”

Later Labour’s Cllr Lee Jameson said: “When Labour introduced the winter fuel payment in 1997, many Conservatives were against it, saying it was a waste of money.

“The reason it has been cut now is because of the black hole left by Conservative governments. But the poorest people will still get the winter fuel allowance.”