He was in bed recovering from the measles in May, 1942 when he discovered his love for the game and said not only is he addicted to the challenging card game but it helps ward off diseases of the brain.

“It’s the most fascinating game,” he said.

Brian North picked up a deck of cards and started playing in 1954, he too is benefiting from the brain exercise and is as sharp as a tack.

“You can play forever and you never stop learning,” he said.

To raise money for neuroscience Research Australia the Orange Bridge Club held their annual Bridge for Brains fundraiser yesterday with all proceeds from the game going to research.

The club has swelled to 165 members ranging from 42 years of age to well over 70. 

Club secretary Dorothy Woodside said the game was easy to pick up and did not require mass intelligence.

“I don’t want to get dementia,” she said.

“If you’ve ever seen anyone who suffers Alzheimer’s or dementia you’ll know what I mean, you don’t want to get like that.”

According to Neuroscience Research Australia any type of mental stimulation like crosswords, sudoku and bridge will help ward off degenerative brain diseases.

Club president Helen Britton said bridge will not cure dementia but it will help keep the brain healthy.

“The earlier you start the better,” she said.

Bridge is not just a game for older people and the club would love to see people come along and give it a try, 

Contact Mrs Britton on 63621138 for information.

nicole.kuter@fairfaxmedia.com.au