Age UK’s national day to mark the contribution made by the country’s older generation was celebrated on October 6.
(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council) The national event aims to bring together people of all generations and encourage older members of the community to meet new people, visit new places, try new activities and connect with those around them.
Two iconic Furness venues welcomed members of the public to enjoy special ‘Silver Sunday’ events.
The Forum Theatre in Barrow and The Coronation Hall in Ulverston hosted fun and free activities.
(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council) It marked the tenth anniversary of Silver Sunday events in Barrow so staff at The Forum worked hard to ensure it could go ahead due to the unavailability of the theatre.
The team transformed the foyer and cafe area to accommodate around 250 visitors who enjoyed an afternoon of food and entertainment including bingo and performances from the Age UK choir, Chris Barker and the Abbey Road band.
(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council) Event and Marketing Manager Joanne Marwood said: “Silver Sunday is one of the highlights of the year and we were absolutely determined it would go ahead. The staff did an amazing job turning the foyer into a celebration space and it was lovely to see everyone up dancing and enjoying each other’ company which is what it’s all about.”
(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council) Age UK Barrow and District received funding from Barrow Town Council, which helped pay for the event.
At the Coro, around 150 visitors enjoyed a packed afternoon which featured a variety of stalls and demonstrations from local organisations and charities including Ulverston and District Flower Club, Better Leisure, Ulverston Chess Club and Poppy Drop. There were also musical performances from South Lakes Rock School Choir and U3A.
(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council) Organiser Amy Whelan said: “There was a lovely community atmosphere, and it was fantastic to see people of all ages mingling, trying something new and chatting over a cup of tea and cake. It was our first ever Silver Sunday and we had lots of positive comments and people asking to have more events like this.”