Forget stamp collecting or am dram, tens of thousands of people these days prefer to get together to debate investment strategy, to discern dot coms from dead certs, suss the FTSE and try to make money.

The growth of investment clubs in this country has been phenomenal. Four years ago there were just 350. Today there are more than 6,000 and every month 200 more are formed, usually by relatively inexperienced investors or complete novices.

The West Swindon Investment Club was formed in September 1998 and meets monthly at The Woodland's Edge in Peatmoor to share a drink and watch their nest-egg expand.

Making profits is of course a prime motivation for forming a club, and examples abound of clubs which beat the professionals. But investment clubs are about much more than this. The monthly meetings are lively and informal, every member has a chance to have his or her say, and each decision to buy or sell a share is made by democratic vote. Opinions and experiences are shared, everyone learns something new at every meeting.

For details on joining call the chairman, Peter Cruttwell on (01793) 813218.