ONE of the area’s most popular charity events, the annual Over 90’s Party, is appealing for volunteers to help this year with its organisation. Hosted by Ilkley and District Good Neighbours, the event has been running for almost forty years and has become a local highlight for older residents.

As the charity’s various community projects have expanded however it now requires additional help with its party, and is inviting volunteers to assist in organising this year’s free event which takes place on Saturday, September 26 and involves an Afternoon Tea and entertainment for over a hundred guests at the Clarke Foley Centre in Ilkley.

“The Over 90’s party is a really important day for us, ” said chairman Penny Coulthard.

“It provides local older people, who may not get out much, with the welcome opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of nostalgic songs when they can meet up with other over 90s and have a chat and a lovely tea.

“Last year there were plenty of musical memories to sing along to with our perennial favourite performer Shirley Britton, who has amazingly been singing for us since the party began almost four decades ago!”

Around forty volunteers help out on the day, including the Air Cadets and pupils from Ilkley Grammar School, and the charity can arrange collection and transport for the guests if they need it.

The event is normally attended by the Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, along with the Lord Mayor, the Ilkley Town Mayor, and other dignitaries from the area.

“What we now need as soon as possible is a couple of committed volunteers to assist and oversee the organisation of the party, which will be held later this year. Ideally they need to be individuals who are calm and organised, good with people, and able to cope with a busy run-up to the event itself. We are particularly looking for individuals who would be prepared to run our catering, or co-ordinate the transport logistics and arrangements. We are happy to pay any expenses incurred.

“ The individuals who help in the organisation of the party can rest assured that they will have the full back-up of the charity. We will supply all the assistance that they might need to help in the job. Most importantly, the volunteers will know that their efforts will have made a very special day for a number of people, who look forward each year to this great event,” added Penny.

If you are interested in helping with the Over 90’s party please contact 01943 603348 or info@goodneighboursilkley.org.uk