ONE of the area’s popular annual charity events – the Ilkley Good Neighbours Over 90s Party – has celebrated its 40th birthday.
The unique event, the only one in the Bradford district dedicated to an afternoon of music, food and the chance to meet other residents aged 90 and over, was first staged four decades ago and since then has proved to be a special occasion in the charity’s calendar.
Attending this year’s event, held at the Clarke Foley Community Hub, were 60 guests and dignitaries who were entertained by music from the 1224 Wharfedale Air Training Corp Band and local community choir The Moornotes, who got everyone going with a rousing sing-a-long. The guests included Ilkley Town Mayor Damian Kearns and Mayoress Hilary Oliver.
“This is my first visit to the Good Neighbours Over 90s party," said Damian.” I must say I have been very impressed. It’s a wonderful occasion where our older residents can enjoy themselves and meet others.”
Also attending were the King’s representative Deputy Lieutenant Suzanne Watson, Robbie Moore MP, and Town Crier Isabel Ashman who acted as MC. Greeting the guests were 20 Wharfedale Air Cadets, who also helped out during the afternoon along with Good Neighbours volunteers.
“I would like to thank the Clarke Foley Community Hub for their fantastic support and gorgeous afternoon tea,” said the charity’s manager Lucy Steer. “We’re grateful also to Ilkley Community Transport for their smooth delivery of many of our over 90’s guests and ensuring they got home safely.
“We’ve had some lovely messages from guests and their helpers saying what a great afternoon it was. One 95-year-old lady said she had a wonderful time and wanted to especially thank the Moornotes choir for their sing-a-long which got her and the other guests into full voice.”
MP Robbie Moore said: “It was a privilege once again to attend this important event. I didn’t think I would spend my Saturday afternoon singing a version of Sweet Caroline, but I really enjoyed the occasion!”
Good Neighbours Chairman Ed Duguid said: “As it celebrates four decades, the Over 90s Party will always remain an important day for us and for our older residents.”
“It’s heartening to see some of our older residents, who may not get out very often, having such a good time. It’s just one of the events, along with our key projects such as Shop Assist, Befriending, and the Moving On Friendship Group, which our charity intends to continue providing despite the challenging financial times.”
Created in 1974, Good Neighbours is celebrating its 50th anniversary year and it is currently looking to raise £50K through some new charity activities - such as the recent sponsored walk around Ilkley Tarn 50 times by trustee Sheila Mahon which helped raise money towards its projects.
The charity is now planning a number of “50-related” sponsored events by volunteers, trustees, and staff, including a 50 kilometre run and swimming a total of 50 kilometres.
If anyone is interested in helping fundraise for these events, or to make a donation they can find details on their website goodneighboursilkley.org.uk/ways-to-give/
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