MORE than sixty older residents of Ilkley and district have enjoyed summer excursions courtesy of Ilkley and District Good Neighbours.

The charity started its excursions scheme nine years ago, providing an opportunity for older residents who can no longer access the countryside independently to spend time together with others in beneficial surroundings.

The Dales trips included a picturesque drive into the Yorkshire Dales followed by afternoon tea. This year guests visited the café at Mackenzie’s Yorkshire Smokehouse at Blubberhouses and enjoyed an assortment of freshly prepared sandwiches followed by delicious home baked scones served with jam and cream.

The Gentlemen’s Cruise was a huge success and gave our male residents the opportunity to meet, chat and form new friendships. The canal cruise took place onboard the Endeavour Canal Boat operated by Skipton & Craven Action for Disability.

The weather was glorious, and all enjoyed cruising at a gentle pace, enjoying the scenery while watching the world go by and enjoying the antics of the wildlife. A superb day out which was enjoyed by all.

Ilkley and District Good Neighbours recognise the importance of social relationships which help in providing an overall feeling of well-being and the charity aims to provide increased opportunities for older residents to participate in these events. “It’s essential that our older residents are given the opportunity to interact and socialise with others, and these trips provide an ideal way to ensure that this happens,” said Anita Dunford, excursion organiser and trustee of Ilkley and District Good Neighbours. “It is well documented that loneliness is a significant factor in the onset of depression, impacting on both mental and physical wellbeing.”

The trips, which are free for guests, are funded by local donations and grants from local businesses. This year’s Summer excursions were partly financed by Skipton Building Society Charitable Foundation and the Keighley Area Committee contributed towards the costs of the Gentlemen’s Cruise.

Ilkley and District Good Neighbours relies on sponsors and donations and are always interested in speaking to people who might spare a little time to assist as volunteers.

For further information visit www.goodneighboursilkley.org.uk. or email info@goodneighboursilkley.org.uk