A HUGELY successful Care and Wellbeing Cafe took place on December 19 at St John's Parish Church, Ben Rhydding.

The event was attended by over 40 more senior members of the community who were entertained by local children and young people who sang Christmas carols and played their musical instruments.

They included from Ilkley Grammar School: Lucy Rayment, Lizzie Gurney, Anna Fazackerley, Jamie Shelton and Emily Stidworthy and from All Saints Primary School: Daniel Fazackerley, Lucie Shelton and Rosie Stidworthy.

The young people were conducted by Sally Shelton whilst Mark Stidworthy played the piano. In addition to Christmas Carols the young people also played other popular numbers including Little Donkey and Dance of the Snowmen which were followed by some solos.

Andrea Pickersgill, of Creative Support said: "Despite the fact that some of the young people were quite shy never having played or sang to a "live" audience before this was a wonderful achievement.

"Our amazing team of volunteers very kindly produced and served beautiful homemade soups as well as mince pies and Christmas Cake which were enjoyed by all. Fortunately the only gent amongst us, Reverend Peter Willox, had the foresight to remember the cheese!"

"There was also an excellent display of "Fairtrade" goods for people to purchase if they wished. Afterwards the young people mingled with our visitors. "This was a very successful intergenerational session involving people of all generations and provided some "community festive cheer" to everyone involved.

"We are now looking forward to the next session which takes place on Monday, January 16 (third Monday of each month) at 1.30pm when we will be joined by the Otley Concert Band."

For more information regarding the sessions contact Andrea Pickersgill at Creative Support on 07581223406 or 01274 482438 or via e mail andrea.pickersgill@creativesupport.co.uk.