South Norfolk Council are encouraging local pensioners to get out more and socialise by joining the Wymondham Pensioners Association.

Run by pensioners for pensioners, the Association was set up in February 2009 and the Council provided £250 of funding to help subsidise days out.

Currently they have around 30 members who meet once a month at Rothbury Hall in Wymondham.

Now they are looking to expand on their success and want more people to get involved.

South Norfolk District Councillor Joe Mooney, who represents Northfields, Wymondham, said:

“We are glad our small contribution has helped get this association up and running and hope that many more people from Wymondham and the surrounding villages will get involved.

“This is one of many community-led projects that we support, but I am always touched by the enthusiasm and commitment of volunteers who work hard to make it happen.”

Sixty-nine-year-old Treasurer Bob Carpenter said:

“We really want to get the message out there about what we do and encourage as many pensioners as possible to come along to our meetings and take part in some of the fun activities we have on offer.”

As well as holding regular talks on subjects such as wildlife and fire safety, the group raise money through bingo, raffles and bring and buy sales and take regular coach trips.

“Recently we hired a mini bus and visited Hunstanton before going on to Norfolk Lavender,” said Bob. “It was a great day out and everyone really enjoyed themselves. Often pensioners can’t drive so it’s a real treat for people.

“We’ve got lots more trips planned for the future, in September we hope to hire a coach and spend the day in Great Yarmouth.”

Bob’s wife Ann who is the Association’s Secretary said:

“There are lots of lonely elderly people out there and this is a great way to bring them all together. We enjoy helping out and it is good to put in the effort while we are still fit and able to do so. It’s brilliant to be giving something back to the community.”

Wymondham Pensioners Association is part of the National Pensioners Convention, which represents over 1,000 local, regional and national pensioner groups. They campaign on everything from health and social care, pensions and winter fuel costs to free travel and post offices.

In June, the Wymondham off-shoot sent two committee members to join 2,000 other delegates at their annual AGM to represent local views.

Anyone interested in joining the Association should come along to Rothbury Hall in Wymondham on the third Thursday of the month from 2-4pm. Membership is £1 per meeting. Or call Ann and Bob Carpenter on 01508 488337 for more information.

Source: South Norfolk Council

Contact;
Debbie Storey
Email: [email protected]