St Albans event celebrating older people proves to be a success

Over 370 people attended St Albans’ Older People’s Day event at the Alban Arena on Wednesday October 11, a day that celebrated the older people in the Community. The day compromised of having the older generation of St Albans community partake in activities like dancing, knitting, volunteering and bowling with help of the Harperbury Bowls Club. Students from the Art, Fashion and Design Department at Oaklands College created an exhibition for the event under the theme: “Stepping into the Future: Tapping the Talents, Contributions and Participation of Older Persons in Society”. Many different organisations had stands at the event. These included Mind in Mid Herts, the Alzheimer’s Society, Citizen’s Advice, the Talking Newspaper for the Blind and St Albans and District Foodbank. After touring the stands, guests were able to relax and chat whilst enjoying a free tea, coffee and cake provided by Herts Belles, St Albans Women’s Institute. Cllr Brian Ellis, Housing and Inclusion Portfolio Holder for St Albans City and District Council, said: “This annual event is aimed at encouraging older people to embrace life by getting involved in community-based activities, hobbies and volunteering opportunities. I was glad to see so many people coming along to the event to try out new activities and to get advice and support, where needed. Older people have lots of skills and knowledge that can also be put to great use volunteering for local charities and support groups. They are valuable members of our community and need to be celebrated.” Photo credit: Stephanie Belton Article by: Samantha Lutes