Book club takes off after a year

The members of the town's newest book club have entered their first full year with plenty of enthusiasm for reading.

The six to eight female regulars at the RAFA Reading Club get together monthly.

Their current novel is PS. I Love You, recently adapted for a film. Next up is Laurie Lee's Cider With Rose followed by Girl With A Pearl Erring by Tracy Chevalier.

Founder member and Felpham resident Alison Batcock said: "Members take it in turns to recommend books and we aim to have a wide range of genres, from classics to autobiographies to 'chick lit'.

"This formula encourages everyone to read outside their normal comfort zone and has sparked some surprising results."

The meetings at 7.45pm on the first Wednesday of each month at the RAFA Club in Waterloo Square feature an informal discussion around each book rather than a critical review.

The reading group began at an ideas evening at the RAFA Club. A few women got together and enjoyed themselves so much that the group became established about four months ago.

Books are borrowed from Bognor Regis Library, which has provided plenty of advice, so members must be registered.

Admin worker Mrs Batcock, who is in her mid-50s, said: "There is nothing like a book. It's the actual feel of it. It's totally portable and a constant companion.

"Reading also takes you out of your normal life and gives you a different angle on things."

New members, especially men, are welcome. Non-RAFA members need to pay the standard 1 entry charge but the reading group meeting is free. A bar is available.

More details from Mrs Batcock on 01243 823007.

The group's launch takes the number of such book enthusiast meetings around Bognor to 16.

A Christmas get-together at the town's library saw some 40 of the members meet for the first time.