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Cllr Mark Ralph worked closely with Geoff Chivers of Age Concern (Berkshire) to establish a series of 50 Plus+ Meetings at St Barnabas Hall, Emmer Green, at which Caversham’s older residents are invited to voice their issues and concerns. In turn, speakers and local Councillors are committed to finding solutions.
Since March 2007, attendees have heard from a range of speakers: members of the local Police team, the Fire Service, Berkshire West PCT, the Flying Ambulance Service, British
Legion, Age Concern, Highdown School, RBC, 50 PLUS+ and Rob Wilson MP
Following the early expression of interest in an ‘Active Retirement Club’, Lottery funds were sought and obtained by Richard Stowall of Age Concern (Berkshire) and the Caversham Active Retirement Club was launched earlier this year.
The ‘official launch’ took place on 8 October and was attended by Reading East MP, Rob Wilson, Cllrs Mark Ralph, Jeanette Skeats, Andrew Cumpsty representing Peppard, Thames and Caversham Wards respectively. Also in attendance were Richard Stowell and Marveta Hinds of Age Concern (Berkshire), Kim Parsons of Berkshire West PCT and over fifty Caversham residents.
Mark Ralph said: “I am particularly pleased with the Active Retirement Club. This now holds two, weekly Tai Chi and relaxation classes at St Barnabas Hall (09.45-10.45 and 10.45-11.45) every Wednesday and another at Derby Road Day Centre from 10.00-11.00 (focusing on less mobile, older people, referred by their doctors).”
”As demonstrated by the high levels of attendance, Tai Chi is great, gentle exercise, ideal for those wishing to improve strength and balance or prevent falls. I’m delighted it has proved so popular.”
Note: Following his retirement from Age Concern, Geoff Chivers is now Chairman of the 50 Plus+ organisation and has been succeeded as Director of Age Concern (Berkshire) by Richard Stowell. We look forward to working closely with both.