THE annual party for people who have reached their tenth decade was held at the Clarke Foley Centre on Saturday, September 28, when guests enjoyed an entertaining programme of nostalgic music accompanied by an afternoon tea.

Organised by Ilkley and District Good Neighbours, the free event – first held over 30 years ago - is the only one in the Bradford area dedicated to residents aged 90 and over. This year’s event included over 90 guests from Addingham, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Ilkley and Menston.

Also attending and representing HM the Queen was Mr David Pearson, Deputy Lieutenant for West Yorkshire. Other honoured guests included The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Cllr Doreen Lee; Ilkley Town Mayor Cllr Mark Stidworthy and his wife, Mayoress Amy Stidworthy; and Mr Brian Mann, Honorary President of Ilkley and District Good Neighbours, along with his wife, Mrs Sylvia Mann.

The occasion featured plenty of musical memories to sing along to, including a medley of 1940s tunes played by pianist Myra Johnson; a performance by Steph Atkinson with her vintage saxophone; and a great selection of songs by Ilkley Moor Notes. The afternoon was finished off in style with community singing led by Shirley Britton and her fellow singer Michael Loftus. Compering the occasion was Ilkley Town Crier Isabel Ashman.

“The Over 90s party has always been a really popular event,” said organiser and charity trustee Adrienne Heavisides. “It provides many of our older residents with the welcome opportunity to have an afternoon of songs and nostalgia where they can meet up with other over 90s and have a chat and a lovely tea.

“We’re extremely grateful to all our volunteers and those who help with the funding. Our volunteers included residents from the area and students from Ilkley Grammar School and the Air Cadets.”

Funding came from the Co-op Community Fund, Ilkley Round Table and Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary Club.

Many local groups including Ilkley and District Good Neighbours, Ilkley Community Transport, Community Action Ilkley, Ilkley Flower Club, Rotary Club of Ilkley Wharfedale and Soroptimist International of Ilkley, gave their time and resources to help make it an enjoyable afternoon.

“Apart from being a great day for some of our older residents it was also a splendid example of the community working together, working across all age groups,” added Adrienne.

If you would like to know more about Ilkley and District Good Neighbours contact them on: 01943 603348, e-mail info@goodneighboursilkley.org.uk, or go to their website www.goodneighboursilkley.org,uk

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