“Since the event the Council has received some heart-warming feedback from attendees, and this is what makes our events so important.”
Over the last few years, the Parish Council’s award-winning Memory Café has hosted numerous events for both the attendees of the Memory Café, other people living with dementia, their care companions and the over 60s living within the parish.
The aim of this combined vintage tea dance was an opportunity for everyone to come together to do something a little bit ‘different’. Guests were able to enjoy an afternoon of brilliant live entertainment, dancing, reminiscing and interaction, whilst tucking into a scrumptious afternoon tea.
Attendees were greeted by the Council’s Memory Café Co-ordinator and her wonderful team of volunteers. They had all come dressed to impress in vintage 50s wear which was mirrored by most of the attendees. The event was kick started with some wonderful dancing led by Erica Fowers from Swing Out Swindon and singing from the very talented Laura Sings. Erica was fabulous in getting everyone up dancing and learning some new steps. There were clearly some guests who danced many nights away in their past!
A local care company Abi Care brought along a few of their regular service users who thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon, thriving in being in a different setting, meeting new people and sharing a cup of tea and cake reminiscing about the 50s. The style of music and dance became quite overwhelming for some as it triggered fond memories of sharing real tea dances with their loved ones throughout the years.
Councillor Vinay Manro, Chairman of the Council and Councillor Rebecca Ross, Chair of Community Development Committee both enjoyed attending the event and getting up on the dance floor. Councillor Ross had this to say about the event:
“For the older community, who may be feeling more isolated this was a great opportunity for them to meet new people. It was really uplifting to see everyone come together to dance, reminisce, and enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and fun. Everything about it was fabulous, the venue, the tea and the entertainment. A what great dancing by everyone! A big thank you to everyone who attended and to all those involved in making the event such a success! “
During the afternoon, everyone enjoyed a delicious vintage afternoon tea with sandwiches, cream cakes and tasty treats. Some of the refreshments were also generously donated by Asda Orbital.
Since the event the Council has received some heart-warming feedback from attendees. Such feedback is why these events are so important as the Council’s Memory Café and similar services are helping residents to make those precious memories.
“We’ve had such a fantastic afternoon; Lorraine hasn’t stopped dancing”.
“This is one of the best tea dances I have attended, it was wonderful”.
“Thank you to Jo and her Volunteers. It was a nice little do”.
“This is a fantastic idea; we’ve loved the afternoon and you should definitely hold more”.
The Tea Dance was such a great success, the Council is going to plan an even bigger one next year.
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