Fenland’s Golden Age Fair is a shining success
Cllr Sam Clark (right) gets her blood pressure checked by Lauren Bremner, FDC’s Active Fenland Coordinator. - Credit: Archant
The important role Fenland’s Golden Age Fairs play in the community was highlighted when 132 people turned out for the latest event at March Braza Club.
Feeling festive: Cllr Mike Cornwell (right), FDC Cabinet member responsible for Golden Age, with his son, New Vision Fitness Centre Manager Andy Cornwell. - Credit: Archant
Visitors said the fair was an “excellent” way to access support and advice for the over 60s under one roof, and also a chance to meet friends old and new.
One 83-year-old resident said: “I loved every minute of it as it was the first time I have made an effort to leave the house in months.”
Another visitor said: “A really nice social event where I saw lots of friends I hadn’t seen for a long time.”
The fair, organised by Fenland District Council and held on December 4, brought together more than 20 organisations that provide services for older people, and got visitors in the festive spirit with free mince pies and hot drinks.
Demonstrations from March and District Model Railway Club. - Credit: Archant
It also featured a free electric blanket exchange, health MOTs and blood pressure checks as well as singing from Westwood Primary School choir, performing some of the songs pupils will be singing at next year’s Voice in a Million concert in London.
Fenland District Council chief executive Paul Medd said: “It was great to come along and be reminded what an amazing job the fairs do to support our older residents. Credit to our Golden Age team and range of partners for the fantastic work undertaken in delivering these.”
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Councillor Mike Cornwell, the council’s cabinet member responsible for Golden Age, added: “The excellent turnout at our latest event shows just how important the Golden Age Fairs are to our local community and the feedback received from visitors highlighted the tangible difference they make to the lives of older people in Fenland.
“The event provides a one-stop shop that brings a huge range of services together and makes them accessible to people who might otherwise not even know they are available.
A bustling March Braza Club for the Golden Age Fair. - Credit: Archant
“People who come along to these events also make new friends and that can make a real difference to the lives of older people, so many of whom suffer from loneliness and isolation.
“All the partner organisations benefit, too; they welcome the opportunity to meet and learn from each other and make the appropriate referrals.”
Rosie Cooke, from FDC’s community safety team, with some of the free home safety items available to visitors. - Credit: Archant
