NEW members have joined a LGBTQ+ group thanks to its contribution to a festive event in Worcester.

The Gay Outdoor Club, Great Britain's oldest and largest outdoor activity and social group for LGBTQ+ people, chose Worcester Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival to host its first ever tree and with great results.

Local organiser David Millar said: “I had to return twice, restocking our tree with cards and contact details.

"We have had new members join as a direct result.

"The idea came from my history walk round the city the previous December.

"We popped in to the Chapter House (at the cathedral) and thought 'Why not us too?'.

"Decorations seen by thousands of visitors included striped boot laces, socks, a compass, torch and woolly rainbow gloves – even unseasonal insect bite repellent was spotted."

In 2024 the club celebrates 50 years of events with more than 1,500 members enjoying over 500 events annually.

For more details and to get involved, visit www.goc.org.uk.