AN armed forces group in Bradford may be forced to close if it cannot recruit new, younger members.

The Bradford and District Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association has an ageing population of just around 30 on its books, and has been threatened with closure over recent months.

The Association hopes to get younger members on board and that an injection of young blood will revive its work.

Membership is open to anyone who has served with the British, the Empire or the Commonwealth Air Forces at any time and in any capacity.

Close relatives can also join as Associate Members.

The group is now holding its monthly meetings at the old Feversham Street School and Swimming Baths building, in Feversham Street, Bradford Moor, on the first Wednesday of every month from 7pm.

Most of its current crop of active members are in their 70s and 80s.

Member David Bryan, 79, of Shipley, fears for the future of the group, which was set up almost 70 years ago.

He said: "We want more members. If we don't see an improvement in our membership over the next year, I can't see how we can continue. That's my personal opinion.

"We are still losing members. Some meetings we only have six or seven regular members.

"If we can get some interest and pick up some members, then that will give us a boost.

"We just don't have the people to organise events at the moment.

"It really is a struggle for us. I'm really enthusiastic about the group."

But previous bids to boost membership have so far proved unsuccessful.

The group held a recruitment drive last June at The Gallopers pub, Wakefield Road, Bradford, in a bid to increase

During the Second World War it became apparent that an organisation for people with a common experience to come together to offer friendship, help and support to the mutual benefit of all.

The Bradford and District branch was established in 1946. The Association works in close partnership with the RAF Benevolent Fund and assists significantly with financial support and respite needs of those who have served in the air forces.

The local branch is closely involved in that support, which also extends to widows of former airmen.

E-mail Mr Bryan at daeb@btinternet.com for more information about joining the group.