Guests at a social event organised by Re-engage volunteers got into the Platinum Jubilee spirit at the weekend with a 'royal' tea party in Northwich, Cheshire.
The get-together came as the charity, which is dedicated to ending loneliness and isolation among those aged 75 and over, is encouraging older people to re-build their social contacts following the Covid restrictions.
Bev Owen, group co-ordinator for Re-engage in Northwich, said: "It was a lovely event and everyone had tremendous fun. Some older people lead very lonely lives and rarely have the chance to meet others. So, at this special time of year it was marvellous to have such a good time.
"Our lady guests always enjoy meeting up but it would be nice to have a few men come along as well. They might feel it's not something for them but if they gave it a try I'm convinced they'd want to come all the time.
"There's always lot of interesting chat and occasionally one of the community police officers will pop in for a chat. It's a re-assuring thing for our guests as they won't often see a beat bobby anymore. And on occasion an officer has paid a home visit to someone who is a little vulnerable to offer advice about how to stay safe. It brings the community together."
Re-engage volunteers provide the free, monthly tea parties in Northwich and around the country. Drivers also drop-off and collect the guests. The charity also runs a telephone befriending service which ensures older people receive regular calls to ensure they maintain some social contact. And tai-chi and yoga groups have been successfully established in some parts of the UK.
One guest told Re-engage: "I've greatly missed the tea parties during lockdown. They are my only weekend outings. Without them I have slowly become a zombie."
And another said: "The tea parties make you feel you belong to something. You are valued, treasured, chauffeured. It does something for your self-esteem."
If you know someone aged 75 or over who could benefit from going to a tea party, call freephone 0800 716 543 or email info@reengage.org.uk.