On Friday 30th September over 300 people celebrated national Older People’s Day at the new Becontree Heath Leisure Centre. Organised by the Barking and Dagenham Partnership, the event was themed around ‘getting and staying active in later life’.
Attendees were welcomed by pupils from Robert Clack who showed attendees around the stall and activities. The activities kicked off with an energetic line dancing routine showcasing the session that takes place across the borough. There was also the opportunity to have a free gym induction, health checks, swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, go ballroom dancing, try Tai Chi, Pilates and participate in chair based exercises. All of the activities were full of new participants keen to try something new
Attendees also perused over 40 stalls split into six themed zones to raise awareness of the activities and opportunities available to them. Attendees could try some tasty samples of home meals and meals served at a local lunch club.
Residents took the opportunity to learn new skills such as arts, crafts or tapestry. There was also a ‘Meet Your Councillors’ stall where residents could air their concerns and opinions as well as hear about what the council and partners are doing for older people in the borough.
After the event, a prize draw took place to win tickets to see Paul Daniels show ‘Hair today gone tomorrow’ at the Barking Broadway theatre. The other winner picked up a pair of home league tickets to watch Dagenham and Redbridge play.
