A 'MEN Only' charity group which desperately wants more members has come under fire - for banning the fairer sex.

The Great Harwood branch of TOC H - an organisation dating back to the First World War - has just 20 members on its books and is the only group of its kind in East Lancashire.

But a crisis appears to be looming with dwindling membership and the stipulation that to be a member . . . you have to be a man.

The group meets weekly and offers friendship, advice and activities for pensioners.

Although other TOC H branches around the country are mixed, there are only male members at the Great Harwood branch.

Chairman David Edgar said: "We would love to have more members. Our branch is the only one in East Lancashire which is still in existence but interest in it is dwindling fast.

"It is a great way for pensioners like myself to socialise. We have discussion groups and organise activities, while helping local communities.

But the question of allowing women to join triggered a mixed reaction.

Mr Edgar said although he is "flexible" about having female members he added: "I don't think most of our members would like to have women in the branch. They would prefer to keep it as it is.

"But that doesn't mean to say that women in the area cannot set up their own group."

Local community stalwart, Winnie Hogan, thinks that club members don't know what they are missing.

The Oswaldtwistle Civic Society secretary said: "It's a pity they have such strong feelings about being men-only. They're certainly not as enlightened as other local groups.

"Dedicated women are very good association members and have a lot to offer. Even Rotary clubs have a female branch which works in parallel with the male group."

She added: "But I remember sitting in on committee meetings when the men have turned to the women and asked if they'll brew up!"

Great Harwood TOC H members raise cash for local charities - this week they handed the SuperScan Appeal a cheque for £500 - and give a helping hand to elderly people.

The TOC H groups originated in the First World War. The name is morse code for Talbert House, a place where soldiers went for rest and recreation in Belgium.

The Great Harwood branch promoted the construction of the Accrington Pals memorial at the Somme, and contributed £2,000 to the building work.

If you are interested in joining Great Harwood TOC H, contact Mr Edgar on 01254 885833.

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