Tea party treat for pensioners

From the archive, first published Thursday 7th Dec 2006.

CHRISTMAS can be a lonely time for people without relatives, but one charity helps elderly people who are alone throughout the year.

Contact the Elderly has groups across Craven and its latest event for members was a tea party held at the Devonshire Arms, Bolton Abbey, on Sunday.

The day was hosted by the charity's president, Lady Jasmine Cavendish, who took over the role from her grandfather, the Duke of Devonshire, in 1999 - the 35th anniversary of the group.

Lothersdale Choral Society entertained around 60 people from groups across Yorkshire.

The charity is dedicated to helping people over the age of 75 to get out and about one Sunday in every month.

Volunteers pick up members from their homes and they meet up at a different place each time for a tea party.

Yorkshire development officer and northern area manager Mary Robinson said: "The event gave much joy to the elderly people.

"Meeting up is incredibly important. Sunday is really the loneliest day of the week. We try to make a difference and we do make a difference.

"It brings people back into normal family living and gives them back a social life. It gives members a reason to get dressed up and it gives them something to look forward to."

If anyone feels they could benefit from the charity or if anyone would like to volunteer, please contact Mary on 01535 632592.