AS a retired Cheshire magistrate with an award-winning service to the community, I am well aware of the important contribution of voluntary organisations to provide pleasurable events to help cheer and smooth the passage of time for the elderly.

I was greatly impressed on July 4 by the dedication, kindness and fundraising efforts of The Toft Taverners cricket team in providing for 200 elderly folk an annual outing to Lytham St Annes.

The Toft Taverners have maintained this annual treat for 50 years at a yearly cost of £600.

Four coaches collected a happy gathering of elderly folk from various points for the drive to Lytham St Annes. There they were treated to a four-course dinner, afternoon tea and a draw with 50 prizes.

Two members travelled on each coach with a welcoming smile and handed out water and sweets. After lunch there was a stroll along the promenade. It was an admirable effort and greatly enjoyed by everyone. The Toft Taverners deserve great credit and our warmest thanks for their input of time, energy, kindness and generosity of spirit.

Joan Rimmer BEM JP Knutsford