A long-running Ilkley group is starting the New Year with a new name and a new meeting place.

The Thursday Group - formerly The Ilkley Homemakers - officially launches its new name at its new venue, Outside The Box Café, in Church Street, Ilkley, on Thursday, January 9.

The group was founded 45 ago as a social and fundraising group and was originally called 'The Women's Gas Federation'.

Twenty-one years ago the group became The Ilkley Homemakers.

Now there are male as well as female members and the group meets on the second Thursday evening of the month at Outside The Box.

A wide variety of meetings are planned this year including a talk by The Ilkley Brewery and a presentation about a rail journey from Halifax to Hong Kong.

New members are always welcome. This year the Group is proud to support Outside The Box as its Charity of the Year.

The meeting on January 9 will be the group's annual general meeting, which comprises a short meeting commencing at 7.30pm, followed by entertainment from members of the Moor Notes Choir and refreshments.

All members and visitors will be most welcome.

Contact the Secretary on (01943) 817827 for further information.