Express & Star

Wolverhampton pensioners’ group is saved for future

A pensioners' convention once on the brink of closure due to internal disputes has been saved.

Published
The group had been suspended by its umbrella West Midlands organisation

Rows within the Wolverhampton Pensioners Convention even resulted in it being suspended by its umbrella West Midlands organisation.

But following an annual general meeting this month, a new committee was voted in and the secretary has said the organisation is safe.

Barry Hodgson said: "I'm pleased to say that our Wolverhampton Pensioners group has turned the corner and is on the way to revival.

"Publicity in the Express and Star in recent months, despite at the time quoting predictions of closure, has brought in a number of new members and most of them are willing to get involved.

"At the AGM a new and full committee was voted in."

Problems arose at the group came after, in a bid to increase the number of members, free membership was introduced in February.

Its size grew to 35 members, but arguments broke out between individuals on the committee.

It was then suspended by the West Midlands Pensioners’ Convention after allegations meetings are not kept under control.

Mr Hodgson said an appeal was to be submitted against the suspension.

He said: "Discussions have been held with the West Midlands Region of the National Pensioners' Convention and they are inviting us to appeal against the suspension they imposed on the Wolverhampton branch in October.

"Hopefully, the unruly and undemocratic behaviour that the Region witnessed at Wolverhampton this year is behind us now."

The next branch meeting will be at The Methodist Centre in School Street Wolverhampton on January 26, starting at 10.30am.

Anyone of 'pensionable age' is welcome.