FYLDE pensioners are being offered a free benefits check as part of a series of events marking this month's Age Concern Week.

People of state pensionable age can visit Age Concern Fylde's branch at St George's Road, St Annes on September 30 for advice and information on a new pension credit available in October.

They can visit the branch any time between 10.30am and 3pm to meet information and advice officer, Colin Ramsbottom, and representatives from the Pensions Service.

"The day is to do with people having their benefits checked to see if they qualify for pension credit," explained Linda Salkeld, Fylde branch volunteer co-ordinator.

"If they come in and tell us what benefits they have got we can tell them if they are eligible to apply."

And the branch advised pensioners who are not sure what information they need to bring their pension book with them on the day.

As part of Age Concern Week, the branch has also organised free health checks for pensioners at St Annes United Reformed Church, St George's Road, on Monday, September 29, 11.30am-2pm.

A healthy living event will be staged at St Annes' Stanner Lodge, Windermere Square on October 2, 10am-1pm.

A tea dance -- costing £2.50 per ticket including refreshment -- will take place at Kirkham Community Centre, Mill Street, Kirkham on October 3, 2pm-4.30pm.

And the Fylde branch's annual mixed doubles bowling event will take place over three days from October 1 at Ashton Gardens, St Annes. Entry at £5 per couple is though local bowling clubs.

By coincidence, the events are taking place almost 12 months after The Citizen highlighted Age Concern Fylde's pioneering work running computer classes for older people.

Linda said: "About 200 people have been through the doors. We are still offering the six week basic computer tuition. And people are wanting to come back for more!"

For more details about Age Concern Week, or to find out more about the branch's advice and information services and computer classes e-mail ageconcernfylde@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 725563.

Age Concern Fylde is also holding a clearance sale at its insurance office at 20 Wood Street, St Annes on September 27, 10am-3pm, all items £1.