One of Ilkley’s most popular charity events – the Over 90’s Party – treated many of the area’s oldest residents to an afternoon of music, nostalgia, and good food once again in September.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Ilkley and District Good Neighbours has organised the unique annual local event for almost four decades, providing many who have passed their 90th birthday with an opportunity to get together with other local residents and share an enjoyable afternoon tea.
Held at the Clarke Foley Community Hub, the occasion was also attended by a number of dignitaries including Robbie Moore MP, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of west Yorkshire Suzanne Watson, Ilkley’s Town Mayor Jane Gibson, the Good Neighbour’s President Brian Mann and his wife Sylvia, and the Town Crier Isabel Ashman acting as MC.
Helping the party swing along were Andrea Mann and Moornotes Community Choir who provided the music. Refreshments and food came from Martinez Ilkley Wine, Cheese Shop and Wine Bar and guests had the chance to win an array of raffle prizes supplied by Tesco, Bettys, J. Reserve, Hotel Chocolat and Alpakit. Making sure those attending were looked after included volunteers from the 1224 Air Cadets (Wharfedale) Squadron. Also supporting the event were Walker Foster Solicitors. And recording the happy occasion was Charlie Swinbourne of Charlie Swinbourne Photography, who works regularly with the charity.
Commenting on the event Suzanne Watson said:
“It never ceases to be an energising, moving and enriching occasion. While mingling with the guests I chatted to a lady who had campaigned for women’s football and rugby and later went on to support people in Ilkley with impaired vision.
“A huge thank you and sincere appreciation for creating such a welcoming, inclusive and highly valued event for our town and surrounding areas.”
Charity Chairman Ed Duguid said:
“Many of our older residents really look forward to the Over-90’s Party. It’s a special annual occasion when they can meet up with others of a similar age, have a chat, and enjoy music and nice food. One of Ilkley Good Neighbours’ aims is to bring people who may feel isolated or lonely together. We do this through our various key projects, including social groups such as Moving On Friendship , the Befriending service, and regular events such as our Dales Days Out trips and the Xmas lunch.
“There is also now, importantly, our recently launched Living with Dementia, with a dedicated Dementia Hub, all made possible due to the kind donations from people and businesses who recognise the role our charity plays in the community. On that note I would like to thank Ilkley Round Table for their welcome contributions to this year’s Over 90’s Party. And not forgetting the help provided by Ilkley Community Transport’s dedicated volunteer drivers, who safely drove many of our guests to and from the party.
“Looking to the future, we will always continue to help residents who need it, but unfortunately the annual grant we received from Bradford Council has been cut substantially this year, so the support from other donors has become even more crucial for the charity.”
If you would like to find out more about Ilkley Good Neighbours or make a donation you can contact them at 01943 609906 or team@goodneighboursilkley.co.uk
The Box Tree recognised as one of the best restaurants in Leeds
Swing into Christmas promises an evening of festive favourites
Local dads raise £11,892 to support Airedale Hospital and Community Charity
Second leg of 'magical' Santa tour starts on Friday
Yorkshire Water finally lifts five-month hosepipe ban
Don't blame wildlife for £11.7m Kex Gill overspend, say Green councillors
Wanted on suspicion of theft offences locally including Ilkley
Appeal for Christmas food parcel donations
Brave dippers raise more than £5,000 at Sue Ryder’s new cold-water challenge
Quinta named Best Restaurant in England at national awards
Children's charity Christmas celebration in Ilkley
Clayful celebrates one year with creative community events
Ilkley Town Council invites volunteers to join its Planning Committee
Outside the Box welcomes all to first Winter Festival
Ilkley Christmas Tree Festival brings community together in a festive celebration!
New train timetables on Wharfedale Line from Sunday
Ilkley shoppers can spread festive joy by gifting toys this Christmas
Festive dining and talent at Outside the Box
Burley Co-op re-opens with fresh new-look following makeover
An evening with Inbetweeners comedian in Silsden
:format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-733784-1403438954-6463.jpeg.jpg)
