Day centre marks its Pearl anniversary
When an advert appeared in the local press in 1987 placed by organisers of a new day centre on the lookout for volunteers they never thought that 30 years down the line they would still be going strong.
But this week Reabrook Day Centre celebrated its Pearl anniversary with a visit from the mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Ioan Jones and a party for the pensioners that attend.
Since they began back in the late 1980s, the group have given love and companionship to hundreds of elderly people.
Ruth Wilford, from Belle Vue, is one of the founding members and volunteers each week.
She said: "We placed an advert 30 years ago for volunteers to help us run a day care centre for the elderly. We had a good response which meant we were able to put on lunches, teas and coffees and entertainment once a week for people. We had quite a few helpers on board which made it easier.
"To still be going strong after 30 years is quite an achievement. To start with Evelyn Donohue was the organiser and she carried on for 15 years. When she stood down, Susan Tonkin took over and has been in post ever since."
The group, which meets every Wednesday at the Age UK property on Seabury Close, Shrewsbury is available to anyone in need of comfort and companionship.
After arriving at around 10am, the group of approximately 16 people, aged between 80 and 90 years old, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a chat with volunteers before lunch is served at midday. Once the washing up is completed, there is entertainment or a talk before they leave at around 3pm.
"They get a lot of it," said Ruth. "They love it and it gives them something to look forward to each week. If it wasn't for the advert who knows what would have happened. Because of that we got underway."
