Gordon is in need of a good mate!

From the archive, first published Tuesday 12th Feb 2008.

Valentine's is just a day away but it's not a woman Gordon Harris is looking for.

The 77-year-old is the only man at St Luke's Church day centre in Eccleshill, Bradford, surrounded by 20 women and he's desperately seeking male company.

Retired landscape gardener Gordon is missing his old pal George Hughes who was tragically killed on his mobility scooter last month in an accident with a lorry.

Gordon, of Fagley, had been mates at the day centre for about a year with 87-year-old George, of Ravenscliffe.

He said: "I really miss him. We used to talk a lot but now he's gone I can't hear myself talk for all the women yapping on, it's hard to get a word in edgeways.

"They make a big fuss of me but it would be good to have a few more men around - the ladies would like that too."

June Sherwin, who runs the centre along with other volunteers from St Luke's, says she has room for four more members - preferably men.

"We all miss old George and we need to find a friend for Gordon. He's a bit lonely and lost without him.

"We'll be lucky if we find another George though, he was an unusual man, caring and kind, he didn't have a bad bone in his body, he was a one-off.

"There's supposed to be about 65 million people in England and if half of them are men and they are half as good as George was then this world wouldn't have many problems."

Edith Evans, who goes to the centre, said: "Poor Gordon, he's a quiet man but he's even quieter without George. He never says a word when he's sat next to me."

And Mary Simms said: "We want more men to come and join us. It'll be good for Gordon and good for us."

"It means we'll have more choice!" said Ida Coates.

St Luke's Day Centre meets every Tuesday from 10.30am for quizzes, chats and activities, a week away to Blackpool is coming up and so is a slap-up meal on George - thanks to a donation from his funeral.

"It's just what George would have wanted - he was a very generous man, always thinking about others."

Anyone aged over 65 and needs company can join, if interested in joining them should call Mrs Sherwin on (01274) 422981 or 079102 19371.

e-mailo: kathie.griffiths

@telegraphandargus.co.uk