A group of small-scale investors in Sidmouth could teach City traders a thing or two when it comes to playing the Stock Market.

The Hopeful Volunteers Investment Club has been running for 23 years and is still thriving, having survived all the economic ups and downs of the last two decades.

It is hosting an open evening at Kennaway House on Tuesday, February 27, with a talk on ‘Investing in Uncertain Times’ by Paul Lewis, a director of Rathbone Investment.

Paul Swinburn, chairman of the Hopeful Volunteers, said the club aims to have fun while helping its members understand the Stock Market. Each month members chip in £50 each and then jointly decide - over a glass or two of wine - how, when and where to invest the money.

Paul said: “Through all the ups and downs of the Stock Market since 2001 - the year of the dotcom crash – our club has stayed the course. We’ve seen off the banking crisis of 2008 and numerous mini-booms and busts. But we’re still here, still investing, and the Hopeful Volunteers is a thriving investment club.

“Stock markets this year are looking very interesting with lots of fun ahead but we are confident that our portfolio of stocks and shares can ride out any coming storm.”

The talk on February 27 will take place in the Cellar Bar at Kennaway House at 6.30pm and is open to all with no need to book. It will be followed by a question and answer session with a panel of experts.

As well as the Hopeful Volunteers Investment Club’s monthly meetings, there are informal competitions and social events. Membership is open to anyone who would like to enjoy – and learn more about – investing.  For further details, e-mail hopefulvolunteersinvestment@gmail.com