A Solihull bridge club has celebrated its 60th anniversary with a weekend of events marking six decades at the heart of the local community.

West Midlands Bridge Club, based on Warwick Road, welcomed members and guests to a special coffee morning on Friday, attended by the Mayor of Solihull, before hosting a buffet party and bridge sessions on Saturday.

Founded in 1966, the club has grown into one of the region's leading bridge venues, attracting players of all ages and abilities.

The club moved to its current home at 909 Warwick Road in 1970 and today has around 315 standard members and 35 student members, with ambitions to grow its younger membership further.

During the anniversary celebrations, members reflected on what keeps them coming back year after year.

Christine Killeen, chairman of the club, said that the welcoming community at the club is a highlight for her.

"Since lockdown in 2020, we've developed lots of Whatsapp groups, where it's clear the communication between members has never been better.

"If anyone wants to play and doesn't have a partner, they can reach out on the groups.

"It's created lots of new connections at the club."

One member echoed this sense of community, saying she had made friends within the club that extended to outside.

"It's a chance to see my friends, meet new people and keep active.

"I play both golf and bridge with people I met here.

The lessons are very social, it's good for the brain and it gives people a real sense of community."

Another member highlighted the importance of the club for older residents.

"We have lots of members in their 80s and 90s who get dressed up, come down to the club, socialise and play bridge.

"It's good for the brain, keeps people healthy and gives them something to look forward to."

Speaking after the event, the Mayor of Solihull, Cllr Sardul Singh Marwa, said he had found the visit "very enlightening".

"I knew the club was here, but I didn't really know what went on inside.

"I thought it was simply a card game, but it's clearly a very skilled game that requires a lot of concentration, patience and thought.

"It's been a very enjoyable morning and I've learned a lot."

Club representatives hope the anniversary celebrations will help raise awareness of bridge among younger people and encourage more residents to discover the social and mental benefits of the game.

As the club looks ahead to its next chapter, members say the sense of friendship, community and lifelong learning remains just as important today as it was 60 years ago.