CARD lovers are being invited to join the ranks of Skipton bridge club which was funded in1980s by bridge players Elizabeth Hawkins and Jean Imrie.

New members of any age are welcomed but they do need to be able to play the game, said member Jean Stephenson.

"But no one should wait to become an absolute expert before considering joining. Everyone playing in a session remembers the problems of inexperience and will make allowances for it. They also recall how much pleasure the game has given them and want to share it," she said.

The club meets in the Swadford Street Centre and members play duplicate bridge in which skill is a more important factor than luck of the card distribution, she explained.

She stressed that the club was not affiliated to the English Bridge Union and did not make up teams to challenge other clubs nor did its members collect match points in order to rise in the ranks of county and international players.

"The rules of play are carefully adhered to and members are competitive but the aim is to enjoy the game and the evening fun and companionship are more important than winning.

"Many firm friendships have been formed over the years and even a couple of weddings have been the cause of celebrations and the winter and summer parties with Shirley Mason in charge of catering are always much enjoyed," she added.

More information is available from committee members on 01535 634089, 007984181587 or 01943 600128. The club is open from 6.30pm to 10.15pm on Tuesday and Thursday nights at the Swadford Centre, Swadford Street, Skipton.